If you're planning on hiring a car, there are a few things you should know in order to have a positive car rental experience.

1. If you're renting for a week, you need to shop around.
   Use the yellow pages of your telephone book and call all companies listed to find out where you can get the best deal.
   
2. If you are looking at a long term rental, you'll probably get better rates from local companies, but beware if you are planning on driving long distances.
   Local companies usually don't have the support services of larger companies in case of breakdowns or other problems.
   
3. Ask the car hire company about discounts associated with national organizations, frequent flyer clubs and major credit card companies.
   These places frequently offer discounts on car rentals.
   
4. If you're employed at a company that rents cars on a regular basis, check to see if they have a negotiated rate.
   This could save you a great deal if you're allowed to use their discounted rate.
   
5. Check the terms of your car rental reservation.
   If, for some reason, you can't make it, will there be a penalty? Also ask if the car will be held if you are delayed and if so, for how long.
   
6. Is there a fee for extra drivers? Must all drivers' names be listed on the contract? Is there an age restriction on drivers?
7. Are there restrictions on interstate travel? If so, what are they?
8. Ask if the rental company has offices in places on your itinerary.
   This will protect you in case of breakdown or other problems.
   
9. If you plan on renting a car fro a long one-way trip, ask about drop-off charges.
   These can be hundreds of dollars and you don't want any huge surprises.
   
10. Get a confirmation number and keep it in your purse or wallet where it is easily accessible.
    
11. If you are arranging for an airport rental, be sure to give the car rental service attendant the number of your flight and your expected time of arrival.
    Ask if your reservation is protected against delayed flights.
    
12. Check to be sure the rate that you're quoted includes airport surcharges, additional drivers' fees, insurance and gasoline costs, all applicable taxes and drop-off fees.
    
13. As the make, model and license number of the car you are renting.
    
14. Be sure to specify if you need a certain size of car, two or four doors, or anything else that you may want in the car.
    
15. Many rental companies have "yield management" policies.
    This means that prices go up as car availability goes down.
    The price you're quoted is only valid while you're on the telephone.
    If you don't rent now, the price may have gone up when you call back.
    
16. If you plan on driving a rental car from the airport to your accommodations, take a shuttle.
    This can save you a full day's rental.
    
17. Use caution with prepaid gasoline plans.
    Always top up the tank before returning the car.
    Car rental companies charge exorbitant prices per gallon.
    
18. Before you accept your rental car, check both the interior and exterior for damage.
    If there is any, be sure it is duly noted by the car rental service consultant.
    Be sure that you both agree on the damage report and that they are recorded and signed.
    Ask for a copy.
    
19. When making the reservation specify if you want a smoking or non-smoking vehicle.
    
20. Always check headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals and oil before leaving the rental car parking lot.
    Report any defects to the rental car service consultant and make sure they are recorded and properly repaired before accepting the car.
    
21. Check and record the mileage before moving your rental car.
    If there is a discrepancy, report it to the car rental service consultant immediately.
    Have him go with you to the rental car and make the correction and record it.
    
22. Be careful of returning your rental car early.
    Some companies charge extra for early returns.
    
23. Ask about insurance.
    Is it provided in the terms of your contract? Will your personal car insurance company cover a rental car?
24. Be sure you understand the terms of your contract.
    If in doubt, ask.
    
25. Before you sign on the dotted line, read the car rental contract thoroughly, including the fine print.
    Check the charges and if you have a credit due, be sure the car rental service consultant rectifies it while you wait.
    

If you follow these twenty-five tips, you will have a positive car rental experience.
There will be no surprises that might turn your holiday into a stressful situation.
Enjoy!