Book early, and on internet if possible

Consider need for International Driving Permit. Find out more

Always take your original UK driving license, leave photocopy at home

Enquire about extras at time of booking

Expect to pay more for the following on collection:

Extra insurance cover e.g. collision damage waiver/’fuller’ comprehensive cover. Find out more

Extra driver

Taking the car outside immediate state (US)/country/EEC

Breakdown recovery

Return to other than to collection point

Ensure mileage is unlimited

Print out all correspondence/booking forms to avoid confusion on collection

Think about/buy maps in advance

Your credit card will be swiped on arrival to enable surcharges to be made

Be extremely vigilant with luggage/possessions as you inspect car on collection

Inspect car for body marks/damage very carefully on collection

Note ALL damage on form provided (or make own sketch) before signing for car because:

Failure to do so may mean a charge to your credit card after return

Ensure you have local contact phone number for hirer in case of accident/breakdown

Ensure the fuel tank is full before departure

Note, or ask, where nearest fuel station to airport/collection point is

Fill up fuel before return, or you will be surcharged

Ensure you use correct fuel petrol/diesel

Check wheel changing tools are present

Discover local driving laws/speed/alcohol/ limits/parking restrictions

Wear seat belts at all times

Fines for transgression may be on the spot in local currency

Alcohol transgression may be immediate imprisonment/car confiscation

Be extra vigilant if car can be identified as a hire car. Sticker/registration plate

Criminals target hire cars. Do not stop if ‘waived down’ other than by police

Do not leave anything in view inside parked car

Return car before due date and time back. 1 hour late may mean extra day charge

Allow enough time on return to resolve disputes that may arise without pressure

Ensure hirer accepts car is not marked/damaged

Ensure hirer accepts fuel tank is full

Ensure that there is to be no surcharge on your credit card after your departure

Take a few minutes to think about the cars controls and on which side of the road to drive