Practical Vehicle Rental

Location, Period, Type of Rental Company

Location and Rental Period

Two key factors that significantly influence the price but over which you have little control.

Rental Location

Depending on the country, rental prices vary based on the local market (competitive or not) and the currency (and/or exchange rate) in which the bill will be issued. Generally, the more widespread car rentals are, the better the prices. Similarly, when the euro is strong, rentals priced in US dollars become more advantageous, and vice versa.

That said, there can also be disparities within the same country.

In tourist areas, competition among rental companies is fiercer, but demand and the number of foreign customers are also higher. As a result, you can find both great deals and bad ones. It’s especially important to compare prices here, knowing that the most well-known or conveniently located companies (airport, hotel zones, etc.)—which benefit from high demand ("the easiest option" for many)—aren’t necessarily the most economical compared to lesser-known or off-the-beaten-path options.

Rental Period

Logically, like everything else, high season (summer, Christmas, etc.) and holiday periods (watch out for "reversed" vacations in the southern hemisphere) are always the most expensive. Additionally, there can sometimes be a difference between weekends and weekdays, with special rates occasionally offered for the former. Something to consider if you only need the vehicle for a few days.

"Big" or "Small" Rental Companies?

A question worth asking when renting a vehicle: is it better to go with major international brands or smaller local companies? Which is cheaper, offers the best guarantees, etc.? Truthfully, there’s no clear answer, as each category has its pros and cons.

Major Rental Companies

Meaning brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, Budget, Rent a Car, Europcar, National, Sixt, etc., present in many countries and globally recognized.

Theoretically, these companies can offer numerous services and good information thanks to their resources (including online), a large fleet, and a wide selection of vehicles, sometimes in better condition. In case of issues during or after the rental, you generally have more recourse with them—if only because you can contact their representation in France upon return in case of complaints.

The only downside is that their prices aren’t always competitive. Either they know they’ll rent out a maximum number of vehicles regardless, or local small companies have decided to undercut them.

In short, major brands offer multiple advantages, especially if you don’t want to complicate things or if you’re looking for specific rentals (vehicle type) or more complex arrangements (pick-up locations, for example).

Small Rental Companies

Beyond the big rental companies, you’ll find many local businesses. While some have a national presence in their country, many operate only locally with a small fleet and not necessarily catering to foreign customers.

Without generalizing, these small companies often offer attractive rates that aren’t necessarily more expensive than others (sometimes even cheaper). Additionally, since they’re less in demand, you can often negotiate your rental more easily.

However, due to their size or limited networks, their fleet is often smaller and not always in great condition. They also don’t always allow for more complex rentals, especially regarding vehicle pick-up, or offer a wide range of options. Lastly, staff may not always speak English or French, which can complicate things (same goes for online information).

So, while opting for a small rental company can be financially advantageous, it’s best to stick to simple rentals.

Book in Advance or On-Site?

With the rise of the internet and online bookings, this question comes up more and more. Is it better to book before departure online (or through a "real" agency) or wait until you’re on-site? It all depends on what you’re looking for and who you’re dealing with.

Booking in Advance

In this case, you’ll mostly see offers from major rental companies that operate worldwide and are easily accessible through agencies or online. So, it’s not always the best option for what you need, especially financially if there are intermediaries involved in the booking. Not to mention rapid exchange rate fluctuations for certain transactions, which can either save or cost you a few extra euros.

However, the clear advantage is that it’s the simplest option, and you’ll be sure to have the vehicle of your choice upon arrival—especially in high season (but watch out if you want to change your dates). Plus, you won’t have to worry about this budget item once you’re there.

Online or "Real" Agency?

Like with air travel, the web is full of all kinds of offers from both rental companies themselves and booking platforms, comparators, or travel agencies. So, whatever you decide, it’s always worth doing some initial research online to get an idea. Especially since some promotional offers are only available online.

That said, be careful if payment must be made online. While there’s no need to worry about well-known sites and companies, if you’ve never heard of the rental company or payment site before, it’s better to take some precautions (check reviews, email or call the company). And if in doubt, book by email and pay upon arrival.

As for "real" agencies, the direct contact makes it easier to get answers to your questions or advice, and in principle, it’s easier to handle complaints.

Booking On-Site

This is mainly interesting if you’re not too fixed on your schedule or want to compare different offers and companies (known or not) to find the best price (but watch out for additional search costs). However, it’s not always ideal in peak season, for specific rentals (models, equipment, etc.), or in areas with limited options.

In short, it’s recommended if you have time, some flexibility in your plans, and are resourceful—especially in certain countries.

Start and Duration of Rental

Rent your vehicle at the best time during your trip and for the most appropriate duration.

When to Start Your Rental During Your Trip?

A small detail, but it’s best to rent your vehicle when you really need it. For example, if you plan to stay several days in the rental city, it’s better to pick it up on the last day and/or return it on the first to avoid unnecessary expenses (unused rental days, parking fees). However, a quick cost calculation can sometimes be useful.

Indeed, some rental offers are based on fixed durations (3 days, 7 days, etc.), and adding or subtracting a day or two may not change the price much. Similarly, in some cases, you get a certain number of free kilometers per day rented (e.g., 100 km/day). Depending on your route, renting for a longer period can save you money on total mileage costs if you haven’t chosen the "unlimited mileage" option. Finally, you can also consider the cost of urban transport (especially for groups) compared to a day’s rental—especially if there’s a trip to/from the airport and the vehicle can be picked up/dropped off on-site.

Lastly, for very long transition stages in your trip (e.g., US east coast to west coast), it might be better in terms of time and money to take a plane or train for those legs and do two separate vehicle rentals instead.

Rental Duration

While you should of course consider your itinerary and preferences, it’s also worth looking at special rates for certain durations (3 days, a week, weekends, etc.) as mentioned in other sections. If applicable, you might want to adjust your planned duration by a day or two to save some money.

However, also pay attention to what counts as a "rental day," as this can vary from one company to another. Is it a 24-hour block, or any day the vehicle is used (even if picked up late in the day or returned early in the morning)? Another detail to check.

Itinerary and Mileage

Define your itinerary well and, most importantly, your mileage plan—limited or unlimited.

The Itinerary and Its Implications

Even if it seems like a detail, your planned route can impact the rental cost. Beyond the mileage and the choice between a "package" or "unlimited" plan, three or four other points should also be considered:

Loop or No Loop?

In other words, will you return the vehicle where you picked it up? If not, the vehicle will be left in another city, usually with "drop-off fees" for its return, which will be charged extra—assuming the rental company allows it (easier with major companies). So, calculate accordingly.

Geographic Zone

Generally, a vehicle rental applies to a specific geographic area (state or region, country, group of countries). In other words, you can’t always go wherever you want or cross borders. Additionally, with some rental companies, what’s allowed for one model or vehicle category may not be for another, or there may be extra charges. So, check and compare among different companies.

If you ignore these rules, not only is it risky, but your insurance won’t cover you in case of problems.

For information, in France, you can generally drive in neighboring countries with a rental vehicle (check details with the rental company).

Access to Certain Sites or Locations

This point only concerns (large) campervans, which may sometimes be banned from city centers or tourist spots, as is the case in the United States.

Roads or Tracks

If your route isn’t entirely on paved roads, you’ll theoretically need to rent a 4x4. Indeed, standard models don’t allow driving on tracks or unpaved roads in terms of insurance coverage.

Mileage

One of the essential aspects of a rental is mileage. A poor estimate of the kilometers to be driven or the wrong choice of plan (package or unlimited mileage) can end up costing a lot.

Define Your Route

First, estimate the distance of your route. With a simple map or, better yet, online tools (Google or others), you’ll already have a good idea. Generally, don’t forget that the temptation to cover long distances is strong, so don’t hesitate to slightly increase your estimates. This will help you calculate your fuel budget and determine the most cost-effective rental plan.

Package or Unlimited?

Two systems are generally offered.

Package

The rental price includes either a maximum number of kilometers (100, 500 km, etc.) for the entire rental period or a daily allowance (often 100 km/day) to be multiplied by the number of days you have the vehicle. As long as you stay within the limit, there’s nothing extra to pay. However, if you exceed it, an additional per-kilometer charge applies upon return. And that’s where you need to be careful.

Indeed, this extra charge can end up being expensive if you miscalculated. For example, in France, it’s not uncommon for the extra kilometer to cost 0.20 € or more. Even if package deals are generally much cheaper than "unlimited mileage" options, you might not save money if you make a mistake. So, it’s good to know, especially since rental companies often promote these (cheaper) offers.

Also note that some rentals have no initial package, and billing starts from the first kilometer.

Unlimited Mileage

This is the other option, more expensive but allowing you to drive as much as you want with the freedom to change your plans.

Which to Choose?

The choice is relatively easy once you have a defined itinerary. The "unlimited" option is preferable if you plan to drive a lot or don’t want to complicate things.

On the other hand, the package is good if you’re mostly staying in the city, covering short distances, or not using the vehicle every day. If you’re leaning toward the package, it’s worth comparing the extra kilometer cost among different companies—it’s not uncommon for it to vary by double or more...

Insurance and Extras

Insurance

This is the main element to consider when renting a vehicle, as the final cost can be very high in case of problems. So, don’t neglect it—take the time to read the contract’s terms, constraints, and limits for the chosen or possible insurance options.

For young drivers (by age or years of license) or a second driver, an extra charge is usually applied to the contract.

Mandatory

Every rental contract includes mandatory third-party liability insurance, which covers you in case of problems. This is the minimum insurance offered. However, be careful, as some basic plans don’t always cover the vehicle or passengers in case of theft or an at-fault accident. In that case, you’ll need to take out additional coverage if you want these guarantees.

Optional

There are essentially two or three optional insurances, which are a good source of revenue for some rental companies.

Additional Liability Insurance: While third-party liability is mandatory, the coverage amount can be very low. For some countries (notably the United States and Canada), a "supplemental" insurance is offered to increase financial coverage in case of problems. The same goes for coverage (vehicle, passengers) in case of liability.

"Optional" Insurance: Many basic plans don’t cover damage, even minor, to windshields, windows, lights, bodywork, tires, and wheels. A simple chip can end up costing a lot (several hundred euros for a windshield replacement). As a result, some rental companies offer coverage for these issues for an extra charge.

Reduction of Deductible: It’s often possible to reduce or even eliminate the vehicle’s deductible by taking out additional insurance.

Take Optional Insurance or Not?

There’s no clear answer—it’s up to you. As always, you can consider these insurances as an unnecessary extra cost—from a few extra euros per day for one option to nearly double the initial rental price for "full coverage." At least until you have a problem...

That said, nothing prevents you from checking the guarantees you already have through your mutual insurance or other policies, but especially your credit card. Some high-end cards (Gold, Premier, etc.) offer good coverage for rentals—except sometimes for 4x4s and campervans—if you pay with them.

The same goes for personal accident coverage or luggage issues if you already have assistance and luggage insurance.

Insurance Limits

In any case, insurance applies within the framework defined in its contract (so read it). However, in case of problems, insurance won’t cover you if there was dangerous driving, if the driver wasn’t the one initially planned, if the vehicle (non-4x4) was driven on tracks or unpaved roads, or if it crossed the territorial limits of the rental.

"Extras"

These vary greatly depending on the rental company. Generally, you may have to pay extra for:

Young drivers (by age or years of license) or a second driver;

Special equipment (AC, GPS, baby seat, etc.), even if some companies offer it for free;

Additional insurance and guarantees;

Pick-up at an airport or pick-up/drop-off at different locations.

Taking Over and Problems

Taking Over the Vehicle (and Returning It)

Condition Check

Once the choice and formalities are done, it’s time to take over the vehicle. First, do a thorough condition check—it’s best to be vigilant. It might even be a good idea to take some photos that can serve as "proof" if needed upon return. So, with the rental company present, carefully check the vehicle’s general condition, paying special attention to scratches or dents on the bodywork, chips on the windshield, windows, and lights, burns on the seats, etc. In short, all those little things that are usually (over)charged later if not reported beforehand.

Also, check for a spare tire and jack, the vehicle manual, and all necessary documents. Make sure all equipment works and, if needed, ask for explanations (opening the hood and fuel tank, automatic transmission, etc.).

And of course, if there are any anomalies or problems, report them and don’t hesitate to have them noted on the contract. The more details there are, the less risk of disputes upon return.

Fuel Level

After the condition check, check the vehicle’s fuel level. Rental companies generally apply one of two systems:

Full Tank

You pick up the car with a full tank and return it the same way. However, the tank is often not 100% full, so you can easily fill up 10 or 20 km before the return location.

Empty Tank or As-Is

You pick up the vehicle with whatever fuel is in the tank and return it the same way. Of course, agree with the rental company on the estimated quantity. This option is becoming more common. If only because most customers return their vehicle with more fuel than at the start (without any refund for the surplus).

Upon Return

If the vehicle is returned with less fuel than agreed, the rental company will charge you the difference, often with a significant markup compared to gas station prices. In that case, it’s better to fill up at the nearest station.

Returning the Vehicle

First, try to return the vehicle on time. Sometimes, even a few hours late can result in an extra day’s charge. So, if you think you’ll be late, try to contact the rental company beforehand to arrange something.

Besides fuel, check with the agency that the vehicle is in the same condition as when you picked it up. Have it noted on the contract and keep a copy.

In case of problems or disputes that drag on, get all the rental company’s contact details and those of your contact, as well as their representative in your country if they have one. If it’s a visible issue like bodywork damage, take photos. And for a small overcharged or uncompensated repair, why not see if you can get it done yourself (but this might also be something to consider before returning the vehicle)?

Lastly, if you got a fine, report it. The rental company usually has your credit card details and won’t hesitate to charge you when they receive the (often increased) fine.