Renting a car in Uganda can be a frustrating and high-stress experience if you don’t know the ropes. These few simple tips can make it easier.
Tips for saving money
Book your rental online, many rental companies have online specials.
Book your rental at the same time you book your air travel or hotel, package rates are usually discounted.
Rent a week-long package, these are generally priced lower.
Many rental agencies will render you the option of returning the car without filling the gas tank. They do this by selling you the full tank of gas that is in the vehicle at the time of rental. If you are sure you be using more than one tank of gas, and you are offered a price per gallon that is lower than the prevailing price per gallon in the area, you could save a few dollars, and have less hassle returning your vehicle.
How are you going to handle insurance?
The rental agent will try very hard to sell you the excess insurance coverage they offer which is usually a very expensive form. You better to still the one given by the insurance company.
You do have other options. The least costly way is to tell them that your personal or business auto policy will cover you. Before you suggest this, be sure you check with your insurance agent, to be sure exactly what coverage you do have.
Many credit cards will cover some rental car insurance. You need to use that card to pay for your rental and be sure you understand what is covered and what the limits are.
Additional Tips
The type or model car you reserved is not available, what can you do? This could be a bait and switch tactic, or they may just be overstocked on larger models. It is also an opportunity to practice your negotiation skills. Accept the upgrade to the next level if it is offered at the same rate. If not suggest splitting the rate, or refuse to complete the transaction and go somewhere else.
Ensure that you are given a road assistance number to come to your rescue in case of a car breakdown. Call the rental agency first before doing anything because they might blame you for the cause of damage to the car.
If you discover that you left some item in the car when you turned it in, don’t panic, call the rental location where you dropped off the car, they may have found your item, and will usually send it to you.
Always be sure you have a major credit card with you, Car Rental companies may decline your dollar notes for having faults like writing and rips.
