Whether you’re visiting a new city or in need of a temporary vehicle while your car is getting repaired, car rentals can make it easy to get to where you need to go. Before driving the rental car off the lot, however, there are a few things you should be aware of.

Do:

Book early when possible.

Car rentals can be in high demand, particularly in areas near airports. When possible, try to book your rental as early as you can. The farther in advance you book, the more flexibility you’ll have for vehicle selection and pricing.

Check for any damage.

Before you leave with your rental car, carefully inspect it inside and out for any damage. Take photos of scratches, dents, and other issues, and make note of them on the rental paperwork. This ensures that you won’t be held responsible for the damages when you turn your vehicle in later.

Don’t:

Overlook usage restrictions.

Some rental agencies may have additional restrictions on where or how you can use their vehicles. For example, you might be limited to a set number of miles each day. Other agencies may restrict driving in major metro areas or backcountry locations. Be sure you have reviewed the contract so you don’t accidentally incur additional fees.

Ignore gas stations near the rental.

Most rental agencies require that you return the car with a full tank of gas. On your way out, try to identify a gas station that is close by so you can fill up right before returning the car. This also ensures that you won’t have to frantically search for a gas station during the time when you need to get to the airport for your flight.

If you need to rent a car in the Greensboro, NC area, choose Regional Car Rental. From compact cars to 15-passenger vans, they have a wide range of clean, fully serviced options to meet your needs. They make car rentals easy with cash, credit, and debit payment options. To request a quote or to learn more, visit them online or call (336) 313-2200.