A road trip through the UK is by far the best way to experience all the region has to offer especially as it isn’t all that large.
Filled with abundant natural attractions that can easily be explored by renting a car, you will find wonderful hotels throughout the country in both iconic cities and charming small towns, all of which make great overnight stopping points or bases from which to explore the UK’s greatest natural landscapes.
But beyond planning your itinerary, there are many factors that you will need to consider when you’re actually renting your car. Answers to common questions like ‘do I have any specific vehicle requirements’, or ‘do I want it delivered it to us for free?’
With this in mind, here are 5 things to consider before choosing a car rental for a road trip in the UK.
5 Tips for Renting a Vehicle in the UK
Consider Your Vehicle Requirements
One of the most important things to consider before choosing a car rental is the type of vehicle you require.
For instance, you should ask yourself questions like how many people will you need to carry around? Will you need to carry a lot of luggage? Are you going to be visiting a hot place? You may need a vehicle that is air-conditioned.
Consider also the terrain of the places you will be visiting. This will determine if you need an off-road vehicle or not. Whether you need chains for your tires if you’re driving into the snow.
You should also consider whether you need any optional extras, and whether the company you’re renting from has these available. Don’t automatically assume that your rental will come with extras like a child’s car-seat or a GPS. If these things are a make or break you need to ask those questions.
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Review Your Rates
There are a lot of different options for finding the best rental cars, but it’s easy to miss the most obvious discount if you don’t know where to look.
While you can go through a third party to secure a rental car, sometimes the best discounts are on the actual car company website.
It’s definitely advisable to compare the rates on third party sites, but take a couple of extra minutes to check with your preferred company directly.
When you book directly through the car rental agency, you’re more likely to find discounts and last-minute savings. For the best money-saving results, check multiple sights before you secure a reservation.
What are Your Insurance Options?
It’s important that you understand your insurance options when it comes to car rentals. And prior research before you pick up the car is always best, as you may find a cheaper and more comprehensive policy from a company who is not your car rental.
Rental companies are known to pressure you into purchasing additional insurance at a premium. While you should certainly drive with insurance, you probably already receive enough coverage through your current insurance plan.
If driving overseas, review your current insurance policy to see if you have overseas coverage. You might even already qualify for insurance coverage through your travel credit card (we do with our Chase Sapphire Preferred).
Even if you do end up needing extra insurance for your car rental, there are third party options that are generally cheaper than the one provided by your rental company.
Rent from a Recognized Brand
One of the best ways to ensure a smooth experience is to rent a vehicle from an internationally recognized car hire brand. The fact that a car-hire company is recognized means that they offer top of the range services.
But it’s also good to read their reviews online so that you know what to expect. Even if a brand has a fabulous reputation in Australia, it may be a different story with their branches in the UK.
The other perks of using an internationally recognized brand is that they’re likely to have more choice when it comes to their fleet of cars as opposed to small local businesses.
And they’re typically held more accountable in public forums like social media should something go wrong.
Check for Body Damages
It is important that you check the vehicle thoroughly before you take it for your travel needs. If there are any damages, even the slightest, then have these noted down.
These should be noted down in the pre-inspection form so that you are not charged later on for damages that may not be your fault.
TRAVEL WITH THESE PRODUCTS TO STAY SAFE ON A ROAD TRIP ↓
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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
