Driving a rental car in an unknown place can be an uneasy experience. It doesn’t have to be with these 7 Ways to Be Comfortable in a Rental Car. Driving a different car for a few days can be fun. I’ve had my share of test driving some great vehicles while on conference and vacation trips. I hope my tips help put you at ease behind a new wheel in an unfamiliar place.
7 Ways to Be Comfortable in a Rental Car
1. Take Your Time – You don’t have to hop into your rental and drive off like Batman. Give yourself time. If you need to be at your destination by a certain hour, make sure to give yourself enough space from your arrival time to get to your rental, get in and get familiar with it.
2. Don’t Feel Silly Reading the Manual – It is okay to pull the manual out and read it through a bit. Especially if you’re confused about any of the features in the vehicle. You can even watch a YouTube video. I promise, no one is judging you.
3. Get Familiar with Your Surroundings – Google Map your surroundings and destinations ahead of time. Sometimes the GPS in rentals can be more confusing than helpful. I’ve had my share. Taking a quick glance on Google Maps can help you get a little more comfortable with your surroundings prior to driving.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Set Settings – Sometimes when we’re in “someone else’s car”, we feel like we can’t move the seat, the mirrors, etc. However, this is “your car” for however long you’re renting it for. Take good care of it, but be sure to be comfortable while driving it. It’s okay to change the settings, sync your phone and feel good behind the wheel.
4. Be Prepared for Tolls – There is nothing more panicking than realizing you have to pay a toll on a road and you have no change or bills. Be sure to research your destination for any tolls roads and ensure to have cash on hand. Avoid this distraction while driving.
5. Roadside Assistance – Double check if your rental company offers roadside assistance. Most do these days. If not, be sure to call your insurance. Usually you will have it in your policy, or you can add it for a very inexpensive cost. This does wonders when you have unexpected delays.
6. Car Seats and Child Needs – Be sure to have your car seats in travel if you have children who need them. Have everything with you that you normally would have on road trips for the kiddos. Snacks, entertainment, etc.
7. Know Where the Registration or Release Is – We never hope to get pulled over or have something go wrong, but make sure you know where the registration and/or release is for the rental. You will be glad to have knowledge of this so you aren’t fumbling for it if needed.
It Will All Be Okay!
Take a deep breath and enjoy the fun of having a rental car. It’s a different car from what you normally drive at home. If you’re like me, when I’m on a solo trip I take advantage of the swanky car to drive. It can be such a great time. If you need other tips while driving during the holidays, be sure to check out 5 Tips for Holiday Travel with Mitsubishi. Be safe, be comfortable and enjoy the ride!