First time renting a car

[onelilspark]

I'm heading to my college roommate's wedding this weekend out in Chicago. I have a car booked with Dollar, and as this is the first trip I've taken since turning 25, it's the first car rental I've ever done!

So...what should I know? Anything I should decline and/or accept?

Thanks!

 

[figment_jii]

Getting or not getting the insurance is up to you, I've gotten it about half of the time. It really depends on what you think you'll be doing with the car, how far you're driving, etc. (You should find out if you current insurance covers anything with regards to rentals and if your credit card provides any additional coverage - some do).

I generally decline the gas options (pre-pay for a full tank or per gallon) and opt to fill car myself before returning it. The rates they charge for gas is very high.

When you pick-up the car be sure to do a through inspection and have the rental agent note any existing scratches, dents, dings, etc. before you take the keys. Check inside the car for damage as well. Note the starting mileage and gas tank level.

 

[disneylove69]

Like it's been said check your insurance company if the car is covered. The insurance the rental car gives could cost more then the care rental. Unless you plan on using the whole tank of gas don't prepay. If you are filling yourself make sure you it comes back completely filled or it could be $10+ a gallon for them to fill it. I usually will put the cheapest gas I can find before I get close to the airport and then top off at a station near the airport. Save your reciept for the gas becuase once I had them try to charge me for not filling. I also will put scratches across the car image on the slip they give me to check for damages. Follow their rules of who can drive the car and where it can go. The have GPS on the cars and know if you went across state lines and will jack up the price.