Airport car rental comes with a premium 

If you rent directly from an airport, you will have to pay some extra fees. Actually, everything you buy from the airport comes with a premium surcharge and a car hire is no different. The premium surcharge can vary from QAR 100 to QAR 150. 

Renting directly from the airport is a luxury. If you think you can afford the luxury, then go for it. But if you want to keep your car rental cheaper, then visit the outlet of the car rental you want to rent from. 

Don’t buy another insurance 

Every company out there is looking to make some extra money by doing upselling. Car rental companies also try to upsell by insisting you to buy insurance. Insurance, which covers collision damage, is essential for your car hire service. 

However, if you are already covered by your insurance provider then don’t opt for another insurance by checking with your auto insurer. Also, a few credit card companies cover for the car rental insurance. So, when you are buying insurance, just make sure you are not paying for a redundant insurance. 

Compare prices 

When you go out to hire a car, whether you are doing it online or the traditional way, make sure to compare prices from different car rental companies. 

There are third party websites which will allow you to explore different car rental deals. This way you can look for the vehicle that fits your needs the best way. 

Don’t return the car with an empty gas tank 

If you are assuming that the car rental agency won’t charge you any money when you return the car with an unfilled gas tank, you are wrong. You will be charged for it 

So, plan your route accordingly. The best way to avoid this surcharge is by leaving a few minutes earlier and getting the car fuelled from any gas station back on your way. Also, get a receipt from the station because some car rental agencies can ask you for it. 

Not booking car rental in advance 

Not booking car rental beforehand can be a costly mistake. Some car hire companies will give you discounts and offer if you book a few days in advance. 

If you immediately need a car, the prices will be sky-high. In such a case, we would advise you to head to a small car rental provider. They might offer you the car at less price if you can negotiate successfully. 

Avoid additional driver fee 

Car rental companies charge more money if the car you are renting is driven by more than a single person. Firstly, you are not going to need another driver if the distance is short since you can manage it yourself. So, you can go for the cheapest rent a car avoiding this fee. However, if you think you need another driver behind the wheel then you can buy this add-on from the agency. 

Check the age policy beforehand  

Some companies won’t let you drive if you are under 25, while some require you to be at least 21 years old. You won’t be allowed to drive if you are underage. However, there are few companies which allow young drivers to use the car hire services after paying a surcharge. 

Decide which vehicle you need 

The type of vehicle you want can vary depending upon your needs. If you have a large family you should rent a large-sized SUV that can accommodate everyone, while if you are going on a road trip with two or three friends, you can hire a sedan. Ultimately, it all comes down to your needs so make a decision wisely. 

In a nutshell 

Following are some tips for people who are renting for the first time 

• Don’t rent from the airport 
• Don’t buy extra insurance 
• Fill the gas tank before dropping off 
• Do your research and compare prices 
• Book in advance 

• Avoid additional driver fee 
• Check the age policy 
• Decide which vehicle you want to rent