Travelling can be both exciting and a bit challenging. There is a good kind of stress, like the thrill you get driving up a winding road to see an amazing view. We call this good stress "eustress." But then there is this not-so-fun stress, the kind that frustrates us, and we call that "distress."
While you cannot get rid of all the frustrating moments, you can do some things to make your trip smoother. One of them is choosing the right Tourist Car Hire in Delhi . With a bit of research and thinking about your needs, you can figure out what type of car is best for your trip. But, of course, even the best plans might not work out.
1. Identify Your Needs
Most rental car companies have a range of vehicles in different categories. The choices have expanded over the years, going beyond the simple options of subcompact, compact, mid-size, and sports cars. Now, you can choose from mini cars to Toyota Innova Hire in Delhi.
But what do you need? While a Luxury Car Rent in Delhi might seem appealing, it could be an unnecessary expense if you would not be spending much time in the vehicle. A convertible might be tempting, but if the weather is not great or you have a lot of luggage, it might not be the most practical choice. Take an honest look at what you will need for your trip. Figuring this out early on gives you more flexibility when looking for the best rental car deal.
2. Bigger isn’t Always Better
Large cars typically use more fuel and can be more challenging to manoeuvre, especially in cities with narrow roads or limited parking. In India, mid-sized cars are often the most popular choice for rentals. They generally offer better fuel economy compared to larger cars and are usually more budget-friendly. Sometimes, when you reserve a compact or subcompact car, you might even get a free upgrade to the mid-size category, as rental agencies often have limited smaller cars available.
Keep in mind that upgrades are not guaranteed, so if you are particular about the size of your car, choose one that meets your needs without relying on a potential upgrade. Avoid opting for large SUVs or other big cars unless you genuinely require the extra storage space. Well, if an SUV is the right fit for your needs, especially for a large family with lots of luggage, there is nothing wrong with choosing one for a safe and comfortable ride.
3. Ask About Transmissions
In India, the majority of rental cars are equipped with automatic transmissions. This choice is understandable as driving a car with an automatic transmission is something anyone who knows how to drive can do. In case you prefer a manual transmission, it is important to communicate this preference to the rental car agent when selecting your vehicle.
In other parts of the world, manual transmission vehicles are more common. If you are from outside India, where the steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle and manual gear shifts are operated with the left hand, you may want to inquire with the rental car company about the availability of automatic vehicles. Keep in mind that rental car facilities in such regions may have limited automatic vehicles, so make your request as early as possible.
4. The Compact Size Might Disappoint You
Suppose you are renting a compact car for a trip to Delhi from Rajasthan, keep in mind that it might not be the same size as you expect. Compact cars in Rajasthan tend to be smaller than their Delhi counterparts. So, if you are planning to rent a car, consider the size of your group and the amount of luggage you will have. You might want to ask for a vehicle that is one or even two sizes larger than what you typically rent. As you have experienced many roads here are narrower than those in foreign countries. Finding a balance between a car that comfortably fits your group and one that can navigate through tight streets without causing too much stress is crucial.
5. Be Flexible
At the end of the day, your choices for a rental car may be limited to what is available in the rental car company's lot at that particular time. While you may not have the option to choose between different car models, you can usually select a vehicle within your desired size category. To increase your chances of getting the type of car you prefer, it is a good idea to call various car rental agencies ahead of time and inquire about the cars available in their fleets.
6. Look for Hidden Charges
When you are booking your travel through certain websites, watch out for sneaky additional fees that might be tacked on during the reservation process. Some travel booking sites have their charges, and they might not even include taxes or other fees in the initial price they show you. Make sure to carefully read through all the terms and conditions before you click that "book" button, so you are not hit with any surprise costs.
7. Check for Quality Customer Service
Before you finalize your booking, take a moment to consider the policies and assurances of the travel booking website. Do they stand behind their services? Check if they offer a price guarantee so that you get your money back in case you find a cheaper rate elsewhere. Also, look for information on what recourse you have if your trip encounters issues. A reliable travel booking site should prominently display its customer service contact details, cancellation policies, and other important information.
8. Consider Ease of Use
Look for travel booking sites that are straightforward to use. When you click on a link, it should take you exactly where it says, not leave you confused. The website should remember your details as you search, saving you from entering your travel dates repeatedly. Some sites are even more helpful, allowing you to save your itinerary and favourite places. This makes the whole process smoother and more convenient.
Conclusion
Remember, these tips can help you pick the right car, but some things are just out of your hands. If you can accept that without getting too stressed, you are on your way to having a good experience with your rental car. Choosing the right rental car involves a mix of planning and flexibility when it comes time to pick up your car. Keeping this in mind will help ensure a smooth experience as you hit the road.