Choose the right service package

Car rental companies usually offer two main service packages: Kilometer rental and daily rental. Each service package will suit different needs. If you only need to travel within a certain range and can accurately estimate the distance, the kilometer rental package will be the economical choice. However, please note that if you exceed the agreed kilometer limit, you will have to pay an additional fee for each additional kilometer.

On the other hand, if you plan to travel a lot, such as on a long trip, a daily rental package is more suitable because it does not limit the number of kilometers. However, the daily rental cost is usually higher than the kilometer package.

Priority for new car rental

Newer cars from 2019 onwards are often more expensive to rent, but they are worth the money. These cars are less likely to have problems, are safer, and avoid costly repairs over time. On the other hand, older cars, although cheaper, can pose more risks due to worn parts over time, increasing the risk of breakdowns and causing you inconvenience.

Check and test drive before receiving the car

Even if you choose a new car, don’t be complacent. Carefully inspect both the interior and exterior of the car to understand its condition before accepting it. Don’t forget to take photos and record every detail, including small scratches, as evidence in case of a dispute when returning the car.

After checking, take a few test drives to check the vehicle's operating condition, including the braking system, engine, steering rack, etc. This helps you detect potential problems early and ensure a safe journey.

Additional terms in the contract

Before signing a car rental contract, read all the terms carefully. In particular, you should add terms related to problems that arise during use. For example, if the car has a problem due to a previous technical fault, the car rental company must be responsible for the repair, instead of passing the cost on to you.

The car rental contract should clearly state important information such as service package, rental price, rental period, mileage limit, incidental costs, deposit and warranty terms.

Prepare all necessary documents

For the car rental process to go smoothly, you need to prepare all personal documents including ID card/CCCD, driver's license, household registration book, deposit or collateral. Some car rental establishments also retain the deposit for 1-2 weeks after returning the car to check for traffic violations (cold fines). If a violation is detected, this amount will be deducted or additional payment will be required.

Check vehicle documents

In addition to checking the condition of the vehicle, you need to make sure that the vehicle has all the legal documents, including vehicle registration, inspection certificate, and compulsory insurance. In particular, carefully check the inspection period to avoid being fined when driving on the road.

Be careful when returning the car

When returning the car, check the condition of the car carefully with the lessor to ensure transparency. Don't forget to confirm the number of kilometers traveled. If there is an incident during the rental period, honestly notify and negotiate to find a way to minimize compensation costs.

Careful preparation when renting a self-drive car not only helps you save money but also ensures a safe and complete journey during the holidays.