Car hire checklist: 20 top tips

Book as far ahead as possible for the best deal.

Check the levels of Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection excesses. If they are high it is definitely worth taking out zero-excess cover. Compare the cost of the broker’s own top-up waiver with an independent excess reimbursement policy.

If you buy an excess reimbursement policy from a broker make sure it is in the same name as the lead driver on the rental voucher otherwise it may not pay out.

The cost of adding extra drivers, and hiring child seats can be high and varies hugely so shop around.

Check the Driving section of the AA’s website (theaa.com) for advice on local driving regulations.

Make sure you have enough capacity on your credit card to stand a hefty deposit. Debit cards are not accepted because they have no pre-authorisation facility to ring-fence funds to cover damage. Always enter the correct start time for the rental. If your flight is delayed by more than one hour you must let the rental office know otherwise your reservation may be cancelled, as cars are only held for two hours at busy times. Make sure the credit card to be used is in the name of the lead driver on the rental voucher, otherwise you will have to pay again.

Suppliers sometimes claim the card has been declined if you have refused their insurance. Have a second card handy to put paid to this scam.

If you reject the local CDW top-up cover, the agent may try to sell you the Roadside Assistance cover covering vehicle recovery in case of breakdown, getting locked out, flat battery and misfueling. A UK excess reimbursement policy should cover this but not all do.

Once the contract is issued read it carefully before leaving the office, especially items that have been ticked as “accepted” or “declined”. If there are charges you don’t understand ask about them. If the total shown is more than that printed on your voucher you may, unwittingly, have signed up for optional insurances you do not need. You must dispute these items immediately otherwise you will have to pay for them. Check the fuel type (it should be noted on the agreement). Putting in the wrong fuel is regarded as negligence and all CDW cover is withdrawn. Make the most of hiring a car by booking ahead for a good deal, below