Guide to Renting a Car for the First Time

We know one or two things about rental car tips. Honestly, there are not many things we hate to do, but renting a car is one of them. As we travel full-time we should inevitably rent cars to explore places. We have rented cars around the world, so much so that they are too numerous to count. That’s why we have developed some useful tips and information about renting cars.

Avoid renting from Airports: One of my top car rental tips is to avoid renting at the airport if possible. Airports usually charge a fee for picking up your car shortly after your flight and leaving just before the flight departs. Sometimes it is worth the money, but sometimes it is not. Most of the time car rental offices located within the city offer low prices so rate your options if you have to get to town first and then rent.

You may not need Insurance: Car rental companies like to upsell you on their insurance plans. It starts at booking time and will continue when you arrive at the office to pick up your car. In some cases, we have refused insurance and they continue to threaten to impose on you until you offer and purchase their unreasonable insurance plan.

Get the right card: A great way to rent a car is by using a credit card. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is my favourite credit card for several reasons, but primary rental insurance is one of its best benefits.

Do your Homework: Wondering how to rent a car? Remember to do all homework first. Before we rented a car we did the research online first. We will usually start with Rentalcars.com or other price comparison websites to get an idea of what a car rental will cost us.

Take Reviews: One of my top car rental tips is to learn how to properly read reviews. I regularly do my research at car rental companies and read branch reviews directly.

Those I see are concerned with customer service, and vehicle quality. Also, do your research before booking. Although I have never seen a rental agency with good reviews I have noticed the difference between bad-rated areas and 4+ stars.

Fill up the tank yourself: Make sure you pay attention to this car rental tip. It would seem very nice for a rental company to fill up with gasoline when you leave the car, and that's it! Don't be fooled you'll be paying for that convenience later. If you find the car that has a full tank in it make sure you plan more time in your day to fill the car before returning it.

Don’t walk up: This is one of the best tips for renting cars. As an airline, you will find the best rate of car rental before online. If you book a car with notice less than 24 hours in advance your prices may go up.

We always intend to rent a car for at least 24 hours' notice. If you need a car with short notice, it is best to go with a small private supplier who can negotiate a rate with you.

Inspect the car and take pictures: Always, check every single rental car you find with good details - inside and out - this is my most important car rental tip.

Be aware of any damage to the company and take pictures if possible. Pay close attention to the rented cars, scratches, cracks in the windscreen, and the burning of cigarettes. Never assume that scratching or dyeing is insignificant or large enough to be noticed. When you return the rental make sure you get the signature sign that everything was fine in the car.

These are some tips you can follow to make your car rental experience bother free. If you are looking to rent a car in Doha Qatar, you can opt for Al Muftah car rentals, a car hire company in Qatar known for its impeccable service.