Car Rental USA and Canada

The US love affair with the automobile is well documented and a visit to USA will probably require a car rental. The best advice is to book your car rental in advance. The rates charged for car rental in USA and Canada will look similar to those available in the UK but, after you have had added all the necessary extras, will actually be considerably (50%) more.  The UK rates will include such extras as tax (local+state+government), all essential insurance cover including damage/theft and breakdown cover, airport location charges, Homeland security and unlimited mileage.  Each of these add a considerable amount to basic costs and make you wish you had booked and paid in the UK.

Also be on the lookout for an operator that has a desk in the airport terminal and offers your car pick up there.  You will not appreciate the hassle and time needed to collect a car from an off airport location.

It is now possible to book and pre-pay for a GPS and this will save 10-15% compared to paying it locally.  Other items such as child seats, ski racks and snow tyres should be requested at the time of booking but need to be paid for locally.

When at the rental desk you will need to produce a driving licence and a valid major credit card. This is needed in case you incur extra expenses such traffic violations. Also ask and understand the company's policy on fuel as it will cost more if not adhered to.

Finally when collecting your car check it minutely for any damage and arrange to have anything you notice to be entered on both your copy of the rental agreement and on the original. Willful damage is never covered by any insurance and so the car rental company will charge you for any damage on the car which had not been previously endorsed on the rental agreement.

Enjoy your driving experience and book your car, with your air tickets, at Medical Flightline on 020 8289 3583