Renting a car can enhance the flexibility of any trip, whether it's business or leisure. Here are a few suggestions to help you avoid the frustration and wasted time that sometimes accompanies the process of renting a car.

Always ask for the total price of renting a car at the time of reservation. Rental agents usually quote the basic rate when asked. Keep in mind the basic price does not include tax, insurance, gas and other surcharges.

Get the total rental price

Extra insurance coverage is a ploy devised by the rental companies to make money. In most cases you are usually covered by the terms of your primary auto insurance or a credit card. Check out these options before buying the LDW or Lost Damage Waiver.

Skip the extra insurance

If you do decide to buy the extra coverage, make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the policy. Certain LDW's only cover damage to the car's frame, so you have to pay for any other damage.

Be clear on terms & conditions

Make sure you get a sign-off sheet from the attendant when you return the car. This ensures that you are not charged for damages that may occur after you return the car.

Ask for the sign-off

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In case you do have an accident, compare the rates charged for repair to the rates of other workshops in the area. If the rental company charges you for revenue lost, make sure you get the records for other cars in the same category. The company is not entitled to compensation if similar cars were available for rent at the time your car was being fixed.

In an accident? Compare rates

Request a car without stickers or other marks that distinguish the car as a rental. This keeps you from looking like an out-of-towner.

Go without the label

Be aware that some rental companies freeze a part of your credit limit for the duration of the car rental. This freeze could continue even after you have returned the car and paid in cash.

Check your credit

An extra fee is usually charged if a car is returned to a different city or location from where it was picked up. Be sure to advise the agent when making your reservation that you wish to drop off the car at a different location. The drop-off charge may already be included in the car rental rate.

Pay attention to your return deadline

Rates are usually based on a 24-hour period, with a one-hour grace period allowed to return the car. If you keep the car for more than four hours after it is due, it is usually worth extending the contract for another day since overtime charges average $12 to $15 per hour.

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