Porsche 32 speedster 1

Porsche 32 speedster 1

 

You’ve booked a full service hotel and resort in some exotic location and now you’re ready to look into some vehicle options. While most of the time, vehicle rentals seem simple, there are many universal rules and regulations that apply. Before booking an exotic car rental in Los Angeles, or some other vacation hotspot, read on for important rental tips.

Which Agency Should You Choose?

While some of the biggest names in the car rental industry have a plethora of basic sedan and SUV rentals, if you’re looking for something a little more exciting, a boutique car rental will have a better selection. These smaller agencies usually keep their fleets in top condition and are always changing out their cars for the newest version, with top of the line amenities. It’s not unusual to see bespoke Rolls Royce Ghosts, newest model year Lamborghini Huracans, or elusive models of the McLaren 675LT at these exclusive rental agencies.

How Old Do You Have to Be?

In most areas, the age minimum for renting a vehicle is 18. Unfortunately, until you hit age 25, most rental agencies consider you a risky driver and will charge additional surcharges or insurance fees. Once you turn 25 though, you only have to pay the regular rates. Some smaller rental agencies will also make exceptions if you can prove that you have a great driving record, or if your own personal insurance covers you while driving other cars.

What Do You Need to Know About Insurance?

Insurance at rental agencies, especially on luxury vehicles, can be very confusing. There are two main types of coverage: primary and secondary. Primary coverage is always covering you, while with secondary coverage you would need to file a claim with your personal car insurance company before it is activated.

Collision Waiver Damage is the technical name for the primary insurance you want when renting a car, but you don’t need to get it from them; you can get it through other means — like your credit card company. Check your card’s website for any rental insurance benefits they may offer.

What if You’re Renting Internationally?

If you plan on traveling outside of the United States, you may have to apply for an International Driving Permit. Most European countries recognize American driver’s licenses as valid, but some — like Germany or Spain — require an IDP. You can apply for an IDP with the American consulate and you’ll get a passport-like booklet that translates your American driver’s license into over 150 different languages. You must be over 18 to apply for this type of permit and there is usually a $15 fee as well.

International rentals also have additional rules for insurance coverage. You often need to prove you have coverage internationally, and if you don’t, you may end up paying hundreds in extra insurance fees. Talk to your insurance company before you travel and learn about any options they have for overseas travel.

Before You Drive the Car Off the Lot

Before getting into your rental and taking off, you should always inspect the vehicle for previous damage. While many rental agencies give you a form to mark any scratches or dents that were already there, some may need prompting before they give you the correct paperwork.

Marking all the previously damaged spots on the car is for your own protection and will prevent rental agencies from charging you for damage you didn’t cause.

What to do When You Return the Vehicle

When you finally return your vehicle, it’s best to bring it back with the same amount of gas it had when you first got it, otherwise, the rental agency will fill up on their own and charge you an extra fee. If you got the car with the tank half full, that’s what you’re responsible for. If it was completely full, fill up before you get close to the airport, as prices are often much higher there.

Right before you leave the car with the rental agency, you may also want to do a final sweep to ensure you haven’t left anything behind. It won’t be good for anybody if you arrive home only to discover you left your apartment keys on the floor of the rental vehicle!

Pay Attention to the Fine Print

One of the biggest ways renting a luxury vehicle differs from renting a regular sedan is in the fine print. Often, there is a maximum mile cap per day, as well as a fee for every mile you go over the limit. Since these cars are more pricey, rental agencies are much more likely to offer extra miles or other discounts the longer your rent the vehicle for.

Always read the fine print to make sure you’re complying with any particulars that apply to the vehicle you may be driving.

Rev Your Engines

Going on a luxury vacation shouldn’t end with your hotel — make sure you’re getting the most out of every minute with an exotic vehicle for all your transit needs. There’s no reason to drive around cramped and uncomfortable when a Mercedes-Benz, Maserati, Porsche, or Range Rover is right at your fingertips!

 

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