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Renting a car – what to watch out for? 

Man handing the keys to the driver
Artur Owczarek
Artur Owczarek

Brand Product Manager Moje AutoHe has been involved in the automotive industry for years. He is passionate about cars and detailing. On his blog, he shares his knowledge and experience, offering tips on how to effectively care for your car and extend its life.

Don't have your own car but want to go for a drive? Your car is currently being repaired and you need a vehicle to get to work or pick up your child from school? In such situations, the best choice is to rent a car. What to look for? What should you pay attention to when renting a car?

Renting a car is a popular option in a variety of situations. However, before you decide to take advantage of a rental company's offer, there are a few things to consider. This will help you avoid many unpleasant consequences later.

Before renting a car, check reviews of the rental company

A sign at the airport showing the way to the car rental office, arrivals and departures hall

There are dozens of car rental companies in Poland . Before choosing one, it's worth checking not only the prices and availability of vehicles, but also the company's reputation. You can do this without leaving home by using review platforms or Google Maps. It's also a good idea to seek recommendations from friends who have rented a car before.

By verifying opinions about the rental company, you will reduce the risk of later problems during the rental. In the case of cars, this is very important - possible claims can be expensive. 

Verify the rental agreement

Car rental - contract verification

Whether you're renting a car for days , a week, a month, or a year, read the contract carefully. It contains information about the rental period, the terms and conditions of using the car, what to do in the event of an accident, and the costs incurred by the user. The contract can be dozens of pages long, though it's usually shorter. Familiarize yourself with it before signing. If you're worried that this will prolong your rental visit, ask for the document to be sent to you in advance.

Car insurance for rental

Giving keys from a car rental company

Every registered car in Poland is required to have third-party liability insurance. Make sure your car has it—otherwise, you might be in for an unpleasant surprise during a police check. Also, check out other types of insurance offered by the car rental company itself . Often, the best choice is to purchase a full package, which will cover you completely, even if you scratch or dent the bodywork.

What to pay attention to when renting a car?

Car rental cars in the parking lot

It is worth choosing a rental car that has a full insurance package, including: 

  • AIR CONDITIONING, 
  • OC, 
  • NNW, 
  • Assistance. 

Also check the technical condition of the car while at the rental company. It's also a good idea to take photos of the vehicle. Thanks to this, you can easily prove that any defects were there before and were not your fault. Also, make sure to write down a report that includes all damage visible to the naked eye. 

Car rental only for experienced drivers

Couple enjoying renting a car

The rental company may also require you to have a specific driving experience or even a certain age. Many companies require you to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle on your own and have held a driver's license for at least one year. Furthermore, only the person listed in the rental agreement can drive the rented car.

Should the rental car have an additional driver? If you want to provide an additional driver, you'll need to inform the rental company and, in most cases, pay extra.

Read also: Getting your driving license in 2023 – what do you need to know?

Check in which cities the rental company operates

Renting a car from a rental company

If you're planning a trip across the country and don't want to return the car in the same city where you rented it, check the rental company's location. This is especially common when renting a car for vacation . Many popular chains offer this option, and they're available in at least several voivodeships. This eliminates the need to return to your departure point. However, sometimes returning the vehicle in a different city requires an additional fee.

Traveling abroad with a rented car?

Many rental companies also prevent you from traveling abroad by car or require an additional fee for such a trip. Rental cars have GPS, so it is not worth trying to cheat - it may expose you to high costs. Check the contract in which area you can drive the rented vehicle - preferably before signing it. 

We hope that thanks to our article you will know what to pay attention to when renting a car. Regardless of whether you borrow a vehicle from a rental company for a day, a week, a month or another period - it is worth reading the terms of the contract carefully, choosing the appropriate insurance package and checking the condition of the car.

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