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Car Hire in the United Kingdom

Traveling in the UK has become highly dependant on car hiring. There are many developments recently that have made car hire in the UK more popular and competitive. Most car hire companies will even deliver your car or pick you up. If you are traveling to the United Kingdom, there are a few things to keep in mind. The insurance policies, airport surcharges, age restrictions, and drivers license requirements still apply. But driving on the left side can be a little tricky if you have never done it before.

Driving on the Left Side of the Road
Driving day after day becomes second nature to us, and often times we can find ourselves reacting to situations and following laws without even a quick thought. Right-of-way laws and traffic signals are every day experiences, and it's easy to drive all the way to your destination without much effort. Well, driving on the other side of the road can make that simple drive a little intimidating. But it's easier than it sounds. Your mind will probably remain in a constant thinking mode, at least for the first few minutes. But soon you'll be driving on the other side with ease!

Also, it might be a little tricky driving from the right seat. You might want to hire a car with an automatic transmission, unless you are comfortable shifting with your left hand. All these rules to remember might be too much. It's a good idea to spend a little more time inside your rental car to get familiar with its features, most of which are on the other side. Turn signals and windscreen wipers, for example, are in new places. So take some time to get used to the cars, roads, and laws, otherwise you might end up hitting the windscreen wipers when you go to make a turn!

Major Differences
On the road, the major differences occur with intersections, right turns, and roundabouts. Remember, you have to yield to oncoming traffic when making a right turn. Take your time and be sure it's safe before you turn. Even if it's clear, don't forget to cross the first lane and turn right into the far lane. At first, I often made a right turn from the left lane into the right lane, against traffic! Also, speed limits are measured in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. So don't be nervous if you see a speed limit sign that says 100 km/hr. That's only about 62 mph.

Roundabouts
Roundabouts are easier than they appear. When you approach a roundabout, turn your signal to the appropriate side, and yield to the right. If you are making a left turn, turn your left signal on and stay in the left lane. If you are going straight through a roundabout, leave your turn signals off until you exit on the other side, where you would exit with your left turn signal on. A right turn is executed with a right signal on, then switched to the left signal just before you exit. If you pass your exit, just go around the circle again. Remember, roundabouts are always one-way, clockwise.

Car Rental Terminology

Rental Car Class: Rental cars are categorized into "classes" according to their size, available seating, and luggage space. Some common classes include economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, premium, luxury, convertible, sports car, SUV, or mini van.
Upgrade: A rental agency may upgrade your car's class if the class you reserved is no longer available. You may have reserved a compact car, but you may end up renting a mid-size or full-size car at no extra charge.
Collision Damage Waiver: A type of insurance offered to protect you from being charged in the event that your rental car is damaged or stolen.
Contract: A document, also called the rental agreement, that states the terms, policies, restrictions, vehicle information, and driver information. It is the agreement between you and the rental agency that allows the vehicle to be rented.
Express Return: This term is often applied to the returning procedure. It usually involves an employee doing a quick look around the car, mileage and fuel check, and then they give you a receipt.
Drop Off Charges: A fee charged to the driver when the rental car is returned to a different location than the pick up facility.
Deposit: This refers to an amount of money, set by the rental car company, which is required by all renters and is returned to the renter after the vehicle is returned. Most companies charge a deposit of a couple hundred dollars.

Independent Car Rental Companies

An Independent Car Rental Company is one that is locally owned and operated. There are advantages and disadvantages to renting from both independent companies and larger corporation chains like Enterprise, Dollar, National, and Hertz. Independent companies are generally a little more flexible regarding rules, class upgrades, and rates. Larger companies have to stick to their guidelines set by the corporate leaders. But then again, these larger companies might have more inventory and more selection. They might have better rates, special deals, or specific policies that protect the renter. The best rule of thumb is to check with your rental car company and give them some notice if you require special needs.

Airport Surcharges

If you rent from a rental car company located on an airport, be prepared to pay a small fee called an airport surcharge. The rental company pays to operate from the airport, and the fee is usually passed on to customers. The fee is generally one or two dollars, well worth the convenience of picking up your car at an airport. Off-airport rental car locations might be a little cheaper, but you'll have to catch a cab or shuttle to the location to pick up your car.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I need to change my pick up time?: Your reservation confirmation will have a phone number for your pick up location. Just contact them and let them know if your flight is early or late, and they can generally accommodate you. If it is a busy season, the availability of your car type may not be guaranteed. You could end up renting a car in a different class or category.
What if I need to keep my rental car longer?: Call and inform the rental car company that you'll be needing to keep the car longer than specified. Most companies have a procedure for extending your rental. In most cases it is a simple process, but expect your total bill to be higher once it includes the extra day or two.
Am I allowed to take the rental car off road?: Driving in off road conditions usually voids the rental contract, which will then void any insurance you paid for. If you plan to drive off of regularly maintained streets, ask an employee about your options.
What actions can void my rental agreement?: Renting a car means you become responsible for it, but it does not give you permission to do anything with it. Modifying the car's engine, or changing the tires can void your contract. A voided contract means you have no agreement with the rental agency and they can charge you for any damage, etc. If your contract is voided, so is any insurance you may have purchased. Other actions that may void your agreement include towing a trailer, driving off roads, driving people for compensation, and sometimes driving outside the original country.
How do I know my way around?: Ask your rental agency for a map of the area. They will usually offer, and if you are new to the area, maps are useful when you find out someone gave you bad directions. Also, it is recommended that you keep the rental contract in the car so you can prove to police that you are an authorized driver.

Rental Car Insurance

With driving, there is always a risk of getting involved in a car accident. But that's not the only thing that could possibly ruin your trip and make the rental car agency charge you for vehicle damage. Doors can be dented by careless passengers, bushes or trees can scratch paint, and sometimes there are things that can dent your bumper while you back out of a parking space. Rental Car Insurance covers these expensive accidents. Without it, you, the renter, are responsible for any damage you might incur. However, you might only have the car for a day or two and are willing to take the chance. Doing this could save a little money. Sometimes that's ok, but it is always a good idea to have car rental insurance. Even if you purchase the insurance, be aware that driving dangerously can void your contract, leaving you without coverage.

All Rental Car Agencies will offer insurance to you when you pick up your car. The fees for the insurance can vary from $12 to $25 dollars a day, depending on what type of coverage you purchase. If you decline the agency's coverage, you will be asked to sign or initial a statement saying that you have done so in your contract. If you own a vehicle, check your own car insurance policy, because some auto insurance carriers offer coverage on rental vehicles. So make sure you know if your policy includes this or not. Also, if you have a credit card in your name, check with your credit card company because some of them cover basic damages to many types of rental cars.

Types of Insurance

Collision Damage Waiver, Loss Damage Waiver, Physical Damage Waiver - For this type of insurance you'll usually pay a daily fee. It does not cover damages to other people's cars, but it protects you from being charged by the rental car agency in the event that your rental car is damaged or stolen. However, it is not considered collision insurance.
Personal Liability Coverage - Some Rental Car companies offer this type of insurance to cover the amount over and above that which your personal car insurance carrier will cover.
Personal Accident Coverage - This type of insurance is usually offered by your personal auto or health policy. It covers your personal injuries with a single payment for you or a passenger. Check with your insurance company about this coverage.
Personal Property Insurance - This coverage provides insurance for any of your personal possessions that are damaged or stolen.

Age Limitations

Any driver can rent a vehicle if they meet the terms and conditions of the rental car company. Each company has slightly different policies regarding credit, licenses, and age. Some car rental agencies require the driver to be age 25 or older. Younger drivers between age 18 and 24 can sometimes rent from certain agencies, however they will be subject to an under-age fee. This fee can vary from $20-50 dollars and can either be a one-time fee or a daily fee. Always check with your rental car company first as these rules vary by location. There are, however, exceptions to the age requirements for business purposes. If the rental car is being used for business, companies can set up a corporate account which will permit employees to rent a car even if they are under 24. Sometimes the under age fee will be waived.

Are you looking to rent a prestigious or convertible sports car? To rent some of the high-end sports and luxury cars, it is also possible for rental car companies to require a driver to be age 30 (an Audi TT for example). On the other hand, it is also sometimes difficult for senior citizens to rent a car. Like the younger generation, the liability is also high for senior drivers. Age can affect what types of cars you are able to rent, and what surcharges may apply. Usually, sports cars, SUV's, convertibles, and luxury cars are restricted to under age drivers. So be aware of these possibilities, and understand they are different among rental car companies and locations.

Additional Drivers

In order for additional drivers to be able to drive the rental car, you must obtain written consent from the rental car company. Anything an unauthorized driver does in your rental car could void your contract. So if a driver not listed in the contract gets involved in an accident, you are responsible and your contract (including any insurance you may have purchased) will become useless. Always check with the company's representative about additional drivers. Sometimes an agency will allow the renter's spouse to be added as an authorized driver at no extra charge. But make sure that is in your contract. Driving records and minimum age requirements still apply, however the renter's spouse does not need to be present when you pick the car up.

Unlimited Mileage

Most rental car companies will offer unlimited mileage if you remain in the same state or province. But make sure you check the policy because sometimes the smaller independent companies may limit mileage, then charge you for any excess miles you drive. You don't want to be surprised when you return the rental car and realize you drove a couple hundred miles over the limit! If you plan to drive out of state, tell the company's representative and usually they are very accommodating.

Making a Reservation

First, take a look at the reason you are renting a car. Are you driving through a national park with camping gear? If so, you might consider a truck, SUV, or van. Are you mostly driving around the city and residential areas? An economy car or mid-sized would do the trick. Are you looking to have a great time in the sun and you don't have much luggage? Then a convertible or sports car is definitely for you. The size and price of your rental vehicle are going to vary, so decide if you need room for luggage, how many passengers, or if the most important thing is the price.

Once you've got that figured out, fill out the form above or click here to view rates! Next, choose a company to rent from. Global City Rental Cars makes this easy by showing all the available rental car agencies in the area with their current rates!! Simply make your reservation through the cheapest one, if rate and total price matter most. Or if you prefer a certain car rental company, or you just like to shop around, you can do it all from GlobalCity's secure online booking software. It's Rental Car Shopping at it's finest! Compare all the rates in the list and save!

When to Reserve Your Car
It is best to reserve a rental car a week or two in advance, especially if you are traveling around major holidays. Last minute Rental Cars reservations are usually possible, but the availability can't be guaranteed. If you wait till the last minute, you might not get the car you wanted. However, once you make a reservation you've locked in a rate and class of vehicle. So sometimes it just depends on what vehicles are available at your specific location.

Before You Drive Away

Before you leave with your rental car, there are a few important details to get in order. If you are in a hurry and you drive off without checking for damages, you could be liable for something you did not do. Almost always, an employee from the rental car agency will walk around the car with you, contract in hand, and make a note of all the damages existing on the car. This includes dents, dings, scratches, etc. Make a mental note yourself, and don't be afraid to say something if the employee overlooks a dent or scratch. This protects you from charges for any damages that already existed.

Inside the car, you should go over the current mileage, check the radio system, make sure the windshield wipers work, and check that there is a full tank. If the gas tank is not full, it should reflect the correct amount on the contract, otherwise you will be expected to return the car with a full tank of gas. Familiarize yourself with the interior. Know where the headlights and turn signals are, and make sure they are working properly. Know the features of your rental car, including seat adjustments, window controls, transmission type, and temperature controls. Adjust the mirrors and possibly the steering wheel. Make sure you are comfortable driving the car you are renting. Sometimes certain trucks and SUV's can be very large and difficult to drive, park, or slow down. Always be certain you can handle the car in a safe manner.

The tire pressure and fluid levels, including oil, water, and coolant, should be well taken care of by the rental car company. Ask an employee for a phone number in case you break down or become involved in an accident. Some companies have roadside assistance programs to help you if your car breaks down.

Returning Your Rental Car

Returning a rental car is usually a pretty quick process. Plan ahead and allow a little time to return your rental car because most companies charge a full day's rate if you return the car even a few hours late. Other companies, however, use an hourly system. So allow a little time to return your car so you can still get to your flight on time.

Some companies offer one-way rental cars where you can return the car in a different city or state. Check with your specific rental agency to find out if this is a possibility. Fees for returning a rental car to a different location will vary, but the convenience could be well worth it when you are traveling.

Express Return
This returning option is usually a representative or employee waiting at the return lot. The employee will look over the car, make sure there are no new damages, check the fuel level and mileage, then print out your receipt. If you return the car after the agency has closed or before it opens, often there is a drop box for the keys and a receipt will be mailed to you. This is convenient if you need to save time.

Valet Shuttle
If you rent your vehicle at a location other than the airport, sometimes you can return your car and an agency employee will ride with you to the airport and drop you off. This is convenient if you are going directly to the airport. The fee for this service is usually between $5 and $15 dollars.

Automated Kiosk
Returning customers often use this method to return a rental car because it allows you to pay your fees and return your keys without dealing with an employee. They operate much like an ATM machine.

Fees and Surcharges

The total amount you see when reserving a rental car might differ from the total you projected according to your rate. This is because every rental car company charges a couple fees, depending on location. And if you purchased insurance, roof racks, car seats, or a tank of gas, the total will increase a little. Some of the extra fees and surcharges you might incur include state taxes, under age fees, refueling fees, drop-off fees, and an airport concession recovery fee (if you pick up your rental car at the airport), which is a fee the rental car company pays to operate from an airport. Drop off fees apply when you drop the car off in a different location than you picked it up. Refueling fees only apply if you return the car with less gas than when you picked it up. You could also be charged for using more miles than specified in your contract (although it is not uncommon to have a contract with unlimited mileage). Not all of these fees will apply to every customer, so check your contract and always ask if you're not sure why you are being charged a certain fee.

Rate Options
Rates can differ by location and company. There are a few different types of rates, so think about what you need the car for, and for how long. A daily rate is best for people renting for just a few days, but if you're gonna have the car for 7 or more days, you might ask about a weekly rate. But be aware that some companies charge an extra full day even if you have only had the car for a few hours in the morning. For example, if you have the car for 36 hours, you may be charged for two full days. To avoid this, most rental car companies will use an hourly rate if you bring it back within a few hours of the new day.

Payment Options
Most rental car companies require a deposit which will be returned to you minus the total of your rental car. Payment options are generally limited to major credit cards, although some agencies will accept a debit card. It is possible also to leave a cash deposit, but again, check with your specific company to find out their policies. Renting a car should be a pleasant experience, and car rental companies almost always try their hardest to make sure it is. International renters will also find highly accurate currency exchanges available after your travel dates have been entered using GlobalCity's top-of-the-line booking software.

Rental Car Driving Tips

The Importance of Mirrors
One of the most important times a driver relies on mirrors is in a lane change. The side mirrors on your rental car should not be set to view the cars behind you. They should be adjusted so that the driver can see the side of the car just on the inside edge of the mirror. This reduces the size of blind spots that might cause an accident. Also, always check over your shoulder when making a lane change, visually checking that the lane you want to move into is empty. But be aware that your arms and hands will want to move as you turn your head, and this could cause you to veer out of your lane. Also check for any cars two lanes away that may be attempting to move into the same lane you are. The inside rear view mirror should be adjusted so you can see out your back window.

Driving Distractions
Driving requires attention and alertness. Always make sure you've had enough sleep when you drive, and don't be distracted by surroundings that may create a dangerous situation. Cell phone usage is a major cause of distractions on the road. If your phone rings, wait until it's appropriate to call them back, or pull off the side of the road to talk. Changing radio stations or putting in your favorite c.d. can also be very distracting. Take the time to fiddle with the radio at a red light or when you are driving slow with no one in front of you. And remember that listening to your sound system too loud could prevent you from hearing any emergency sirens that may be behind you.

Also be cautious about the amount of distractions caused by your passengers. You should be paying more attention to driving than what your passengers are doing. Keep your eyes moving and make sure you are seen by other drivers. Drive defensively, follow traffic rules, wear your seatbelt, use your turn signals, and keep a safe amount of distance from other drivers.

After An Accident

Car accidents happen so fast, and even little fender benders can cause a lack of clear thinking. After an accident, don't panic, and get the personal information from the people involved. Also make sure to get a Driver's License Number and the Insurance Company's information. Also talk to any witnesses who may have seen what happened. A police report is always a good thing to have because it will determine who was at fault. In any case, if you get in an accident, call the rental car company and they will help you through the process. They will want to know the details of the scene, so make a note of the color and type of cars involved. If possible get a photo of the accident.

Rental Car Damage
Your specific type of insurance will determine how much of the damage will be covered. If you bought insurance coverage from the agency, they will claim it themselves. If you only had coverage through your personal insurance policy, you will need to contact them and make a claim.

If the car's damage is minimal, and you are still able to drive the rental car, the rental car company might have you return and get a new one, or they might ask you to continue driving it until your scheduled return time. In that case, allow extra time to return the car to allow for the inspection and paperwork to be completed.

Rental Car Safety Tips

Creating Space
Always create space around your vehicle. Be prepared in the case that you become boxed in. Distance between you and other cars gives you time to react and prevents accidents. The "Two Second Rule" says you should be able to count at least two seconds of time between you and the car in front of you. Find a fixed point on the road like a sign, and start counting as soon as the car in front of you passes the sign. You should be at least two seconds behind before your car passes the sign. Also, don't allow someone to ride on your bumper. If you feel someone is too close, change lanes or adjust your speed.

Defensive Driving
When driving in traffic, sometimes we expect other drivers to do certain things. Be prepared in case that does not happen. It can often be unsafe to assume other drivers will drive a certain way, and you must be prepared to react in a safe manner.

VEHICLE SPEED: Sometimes the posted speed limit may be too fast. This can be the case in extreme weather, or on wet roads, or in a congested area like a construction zone. Don't assume the speed limit is always safe. Use common sense and also be aware that driving too slow can be dangerous too.

NIGHT DRIVING: Driving at night may be difficult because things look different at night. The headlights of other cars create a glare, and distances between other objects may appear difficult to judge. Night time can greatly affect your depth perception. You may want to dim your dashboard lights and adjust the rear view mirror to reduce glare. Also, be aware that signs and center lines may be difficult to see at night.

Child Car Seats

Laws regarding child safety seats differ in various countries and states. Check the laws of the state you will be traveling in regarding your children's age, height, and weight. Car seats are available for rent from the rental car company, and generally you can expect to pay between $5 and $10 U.S. dollars per day. It's cheaper to bring your own car seat, but it may be easier to rent one. If your child requires a car seat, be sure your rental car is equipped to safely anchor your car seat. Also keep that in mind if you end up driving an upgraded car or any different car than you originally reserved.

Ask an employee about the type of car seat you are renting. In order to be safe, the car seat should be appropriate for your child's age and weight. Some car seats face forward and some face backward, so be sure you have the type that would be most safe for your child. The car seats that face the rear are for infants only, from birth to 20 or 22 pounds (9 or 10 kilograms). These type of seats should never be placed in the front passenger seat where an airbag could possibly risk the safety of your child. Also, find out if your rental car is equipped with side airbags. It is recommended that children are not placed next to side airbags unless otherwise stated by the car's manufacturer. Forward facing car seats are more appropriate for 20 to 40 pound (9 to 18 kilograms) children who are at least one year old. Booster seats that are usually appropriate for 3-6 year olds are generally not available to rent, so bring your own.

Sometimes the availability of car seats is limited at certain car rental companies. So if your child requires one, be sure to reserve it in advance.

Rental Car Upgrades

Availability is often limited at many rental agency locations, and sometimes it is possible to upgrade your vehicle class if the type you reserved is not available. This is usually done at no extra cost, because remember you reserved a specific rate that the rental agency is obligated to. It all depends on availability, but you will always be given a vehicle that is either in the class you specified or better.

Refueling Options

There usually is many options for refueling your rental car. Make sure you understand each option before you return your car. Most of the time your best bet is to refuel the car yourself at any gas station. You are only required to fill the tank to the level it was when you picked the vehicle up (usually full), but make sure your contract reflects the correct amount. If you don't want to bother stopping at a gas station, you can save time by paying the rental car agency to refill the tank for you, however, they usually charge substantially higher prices than a local gas station. Most rental car companies will offer a pre-payment option when you pick up your rental car. This option allows you to purchase a full tank of gas (sometimes at a lower price per gallon), so you don't have to stop at a gas station. However, this might turn out to be a bad idea if you know you aren't going to be using a full tank, because unused gas will not be refunded.

Refilling the gas tank on your own is generally the cheapest if you are not going to use a full tank. But be sure to allow enough time to find a gas station, especially if you are returning your rental car to an agency located at the airport, because it is often difficult to find a gas station near an airport. The FAA requires airports to be separated from the vicinity of gas stations for safety reasons. So try to locate one that will still allow you to make your flight on time.

Which Cars Have Good Gas Mileage?
Compact cars generally get the most miles per gallon. Cars like the Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Dodge Neon can get around 33-36 miles per gallon. Compact cars are great for driving long distances on a little bit of gas, and they often have the best rates. Refer to the Compact Car descriptions for more information.