Carrentals.co.uk Explains the Common Hire Car Problems and How to Avoid Them

The UK's leading car hire comparator, Carrentals.co.uk, has announced the common pitfalls that hire car renters find themselves in when on holiday and tells of how to avoid those mistakes.

Carrentals.co.uk Managing Director and spokesperson for the company, Gareth Robinson, said: "We are all aware that hiring a car on holiday is one of the easiest things to do and makes the holiday more enjoyable and convenient, but there are a few pitfalls that people find themselves in, which can cause headaches.

"By understanding the terms and conditions as well as the insurance policies before renting a car, people can have a more enjoyable holiday and car rental experience."

Carrentals.co.uk's ten top tips on what to avoid when renting a car

Low cost hire cars – While it might seem a good idea, the cheapest car is not always the best. Usually, holidaymakers need more room for luggage and kids, so a people carrier is usually better value for money and more comfortable.

Booking too late – Last minute bookings do not bode well for finding the best deals or securing the car of your choice. Many cars are of limited supply, people carriers for one, and therefore booking ahead can secure your favourite car.

Car hire insurance on the day – You will be offered car hire insurance when you collect it, but in many cases it is more expensive than buying it at the time of booking. You might also be double insured if you do buy it, which is a waste of money.

Insuring the car properly – It is cheaper to shop around for car hire insurance than using the supplier's insurance, which does not always have the correct coverage you need. Total Damage Excess Waiver can help keep your holiday from disaster if you damage the roof, underside, wheels, tyres, windscreen or have to pay an excess.

Remember your documentation – Too many people rent a hire car and forget to take their passport, driver's license, utility bills, credit card or photo ID. In many cases, the car hire company has to reject the rental.

Check for damage – Always scan the car for damage and report it before you leave the car park. If there is any additional damage on your return then you are liable for it.

Driving laws abroad – In some countries, the traffic laws are different, such as in Turkey you have to give way when on a roundabout for those joining it, rather than the other way around in the UK. Research and read up on traffic laws before you leave so you understand when you get there.

Add on extras before you pick up the car – Adding on extras, such as baby seats, snow tyres, sat nav or snow chains can be an added expense that you don't need on the day of arrival. Charges are usually higher on the day.

Understand the fuel policy – Some suppliers prefer to have the car returned with no fuel in the car or with a full tank. If you do not comply with their needs then they might charge you.

Credit card limits – Make sure you have enough funds available on your credit card as it will need to be swiped before you collect the keys. If there isn't enough, then the authorisation of the excess charges can not be administered and you won't be able to take the car away.

The leading car hire comparator in the UK, Carrentals.co.uk, deals with more than 15,000 locations around the world, which include Budget, Sixt, Holiday Autos, Auto Europe and Alamo.