Planning the trip. There are many rent-a-car companies and you should know from the beginning the one you want to choose as you avoid paying absurd prices. Prepare before leaving and do some research on the internet to read real experiences.

1. The best idea is to reserve a car in a low season and travel in a high season.
2. Booking the car. There are several details you should concentrate on such as types of cars offered, car hire rates, mileage, pick up and delivery points, fuel charges, insurance coverage, etc. There are good package deals if you are traveling to more that one destination which is very good compared to booking a car every time you reach a new destination. Keep with you all the time a printed copy of your confirmation to avoid last moment confusions.
3. Avoid hidden costs. Car hire companies can make hidden costs that were not mentioned in their quoted rates: fees for choosing a pick up or drop off point different from the one mentioned by the company, fees for car topped with fuel, fees for not returning the car with a full tank. All the cars you will rent have insurance to cover any damage while in your possession but most companies charge an added insurance amount. Banks may offer car insurance if you use their services elsewhere and you may not need to pay for insurance.
4. Mileage. Companies offer unlimited mileage or a few miles free and charge the rest.
5. Taxes. Extra-taxes are to be paid depending on the place you hire the car: airport taxes, value added taxes in Europe.
6. Time. A car can be rented on a 24 hours basis or on a day and date basis. Be very careful to return the car on time. A 30 minute delay could cause you to pay 24 hours extra. Hiring a car for a whole week is cheaper comparing with five single days renting.
7. Car type. Hire companies offer a wide range of cars: economy, family, budget, full-size 2/4 door or luxury. All the cars have a radio, automatic transmission, power steering and air conditioning. A family needs a small car while more then 5 persons require a MPV.