Posted on April 14, 2008 by Fiona Hilliard

Hiring a car at home, you’ll be bombarded with information that you may not fully understand.  Hiring a car abroad and your levels of confusion are sure to increase manifold.  The following is some useful advice worth keeping in mind when you book your car hire overseas.

1. Price Your Rental:

Be prepared to check out some different sites to find the best prices.  Keep your arrival date, airline and flight number handy.  Visit car hire brokers who have in-country contracts with local providers.  Google your destination (Spain car hire) to find specialty brokers.  Lastly, visit major brands to get a general idea of pricing.

2. Familiarise Yourself With Car Models:

Cars offered on foreign sites may be smaller or different than expected.  If you’re unsure about the vehicle you’re renting, it’s a good idea to visit the car manufacturer’s main website.

3. Check your Pick-Up/Drop-Off Locations:

If the information on where to pick-up or drop-off isn’t on your booking agent’s website, check the airport’s website to confirm the location.

4. To Be Sure To be Sure:

When you’ve got the offer on your screen, call the reservations line and talk through the offer you’re booking to ensure that you’re clear on everything that’s included. 

5. Last Checks:

The vehicle’s owner’s manual may not be in English.  Before leaving the airport, find out how to use the windscreen wipers, lights and how to fill the petrol tank.