What basic cover usually means
Rental car insurance is one of the most confusing parts of hiring a car, mostly because of the terminology. In Europe, third-party liability insurance, which covers damage or injury you cause to others, is generally a legal requirement and included in the rental. Basic packages also typically include some form of collision damage and theft protection for the car itself.
The catch is the excess, sometimes called the deductible. This is the amount you would still have to pay towards damage or theft before the insurance covers the rest. It can be significant, so it is worth knowing what it is before you drive away.
Deposits and the credit card hold
Most rental companies place a hold on the main driver's credit card at pick-up. This usually relates to the excess and fuel, and is released after the car is returned in good condition. Make sure your card has enough available credit, and be aware that debit cards are not always accepted for the deposit.
Read the paperwork to understand exactly how much is being held and when it will be released.
Extra cover: do you need it?
At the counter, you may be offered additional products that reduce the excess, sometimes to zero, or cover parts often excluded from basic policies such as tyres, glass, the underside of the car or keys. Whether these are worth it depends on how much risk you are comfortable with, how long you are renting for and where you will be driving.
Some travellers buy standalone excess insurance before they travel, and some credit cards include rental car benefits. If you take this route, understand how it works: usually you pay the rental company first and then claim the money back. Check the details carefully rather than assuming you are covered.
AeroVista rentals and the questions to ask
Rental cars booked through AeroVista come with basic insurance included, as well as unlimited kilometres and free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up. As with any rental, read the terms to see what the excess is and what is excluded.
Before you sign, ask: What is the excess? What is excluded from cover? How much is the deposit, and when is it released? What should I do in case of an accident or breakdown? Note down the emergency number and keep it somewhere easy to find in the car.
Good to know
- Ask for the excess amount in writing before you drive away.
- Make sure your credit card has room for the deposit hold.
- Film the car's condition at pick-up and return.