Renting a car needs serious research before committing on a given car to explore different locations. Car hire is now the order of the day for travellers who want to minimize safari costs. Travellers rent cars for reasons like flexibility, low budget, privacy, variety, convenience and so on. Below are some of the important tips for car hire:
Vehicle type
Consider a cost saving safari vehicle in terms of fuel consumption. But keep in mind that 4×4 safari vehicle is the ideal because of the challenging terrain upcountry/ remote areas.
Pick and drop off point
Know where to pick the car from and where to drop it off after the safari. In most cases, pick up and drop off is done at the Airport or city centre.
Valid Driver’s licence
Only licenced drivers are allowed to drive a car to avoid traffic fines. In many countries, traffic officers are placed on road sides to check the capability of drivers, supervise road use and enforcing laws.
Check insurance options
Check third party insurance whether it is still valid and if not please instruct the car rental company to renew. Another major insurance policy in car rental business is comprehensive insurance which covers all risks.
Avoid Airport Rentals
To avoid panic renting, consult from car rental companies are book the safari vehicle in advance. More so, airport car hire is expensive given the fact that you have no other options on arrival at the Airport.
Fuel Charges
Fuelling a 4×4 for a Road Trip in Uganda
Consider fuel prices in a given nation at a given time. Sometimes fuel prices hike due to inflation and other factors. Travellers should consider travelling when the fuel prices are a bit lower.
Choose economy car
A car that consumes less fuel is the best for long season tourists. Travellers should consider lowering their safari cost by renting low fuel consuming car, easy to maintain and comprehensively insured.
Rent a car for and driver
It’s better to use one experienced driver through out the trip. Among all the travellers, choose one driver with much experience and valid driver’s licence.
Book your car in advance
Contact the car rental and choose and book your car in advance. The car rental company will have enough time to prepare, service and renew or update insurance policies among others.
Maximize your rental period
The more days you rent the car, the more discount given by the travel agency. For that case, travellers on long car higher period pay less than those on short term car renting.
Check the car before use
To be sure that all is well, check the car parts, fluids, service duration, tyres, valid car documents or do car driving test to ensure that that car functioning well.
Compare prices online
Consult from different rental companies to see which agency offers fair prices. Check online to see cars with price tags, compare the prices and then book a suitable safari vehicle based on your budget.
Prepare a well-equipped tool box
spare tyres, spanner, among others should be in the car to be on safe side.
Safety measure like First Aid Kit, Reflector and so on should be prepared and placed in the car.
