When choosing a van for a fantastic group getaway, you must be acquainted with all specialties and know which one will work best. What size exactly do you need for complete passenger comfort? It is not about space only. Sometimes people don’t even understand how challenging it may be to sit close to each other for a long duration. By the way, in that case, you could have a trailer for vast baggage or equipment, but let’s figure out more hacks, how to rent a van successfully. This article contains detailed rules for the awesome van experience.
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Be flexible with plans
The main reason to start making plans up to 6 months prior is availability because the vehicle will be assigned to your date only, but definitely not the prices. They tend to be cheaper at the last minute, or at least a few days in advance. Early booking takes an extra 15% for a one-week car rental three months beforehand, according to Neardwallet data. Rent a van attentively, and don’t be in a hurry while comparing charges. Consider all pros and cons because cheaper options are not always better.
Use the car aggregator site
Convenient as Google, a car aggregator site searches automatically for valuable offerings on the various rental agencies, compiles the information, and presents the results in one list. Check 12-seat van rental easily, and acquaint yourself with information about every model on the page. Flexibility and practicality are the main characteristics of that class. In fact, the seats can be moved about, implying that they can accommodate more people or luggage in any area around the states or next to you immediately. This particular function is known as the alternative usage of space.
Divide the budget immediately
Know what you pay for. USA 12-seater daily rates consist of five primary factors:
- duration of rental;
- location;
- extra fees;
- insurance;
- charges/taxes.
On average, rent may cost up to $100/per day, but it also depends on the season, and mainly, companies offer a car for $30- $50/per day, not counting the gas during the trip and parking or garage. Split the bill together for a good deal. Make renting a longer period a priority, and then the company will lower the price to %40.
Learn driver’s requirements and restrictions
First of all, it is an age that influences spending well. A young driver under 21 is supposed to pay a special fee every day, although it is possible to avoid. USA car rental provides a 20 minimum age in most states, but for Michigan and New York – 18. A driving record is necessary because you won’t get a car if that isn’t clean. And, of course, prepare valid documents: license or IDP, passport, and credit cards.
Don’t frame the directions
Want to set off in one place and finish the journey somewhere else? One-way car rental gives this advantage. This service is offered almost in every agency but has different prices to pay. It can’t be a budget, but the cheap option is possible to find. Just check less popular tenants. Forget about returning the vehicle, relax and be more focused on vacation.
Make sure if the service is worth trust
Look at the company whenever prices seem very attractive and save yourself from accidents. Enough to google it and check reviews to see whether the excellent reputation is acknowledged. And what, at large, should you expect – huge lines for pickup, poor vehicle quality, hidden payments, or vice versa, strict punctuality, and a lot of bonuses?
In addition, there are also ways to avoid paying for upgrades:
- Absolutely useless staff for $15/per day. Use your phone and install the offline maps before you go.
- Roadside assistance and satellite radio. They are available on gadgets and also extend the total sum.
- Tool transponder. Bring some cash to pay by yourself and save your money.
- Baby car seat. It would be good to buy or borrow one instead of overpaying.
Figure the insurance out
Often rental agents force customers to buy “special “rental insurance by rook or by crook for a crazy price, although yours may have a required full coverage from damage. Consider using a credit card for primary or secondary coverage if this is inappropriate. Ask your bank about that function, or book a new travel card with a wide range of other additional perks, such as cashback.
Examine the car before leaving
Take pictures of the inside and outside of the vehicle with your phone to verify with the company if there are any scratches, dents, or noticeable harm. Otherwise, they may fine you, which could also hit the wallet.
Stick to gas policy
The cost of petrol at gas stations is more valuable. Meanwhile, companies often establish a margin. Sometimes it is necessary to return a car with a full tank, but some rental companies don’t require a refill. That should be clarified with the agent.