Car Hire in Fitzroy, Melbourne, Australia

When renting a car, especially after travelling by train, allocate extra time for pickup to account for possible delays. Most car hire companies offer a 30-60 minute grace period. Sharing your train number can be helpful, but if you're running late, be sure to contact the car hire provider to let them know.

Familiarize yourself with the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy requires returning the vehicle with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' requires it to be returned at the same fuel level. Full-to-Full is generally more economical.

Before driving away, examine the rental car's interior for cleanliness and any functional issues. Ensure features like the radio and air conditioning are working properly.

Most rental companies will require a credit card for the deposit, which is typically frozen in your account. Make sure to inquire about the specific deposit amount and the policy for releasing the freeze.

Before renting a car, check if your personal car insurance covers rental losses. Many personal auto insurance policies and credit cards offer coverage for rentals, which could save you from extra insurance fees.

If you're looking for more comfort or features, inquire about upgrade options at the rental desk. Sometimes, upgrades are offered at a discounted rate at pickup.

Some rentals have mileage limits, while others provide unlimited options. Read the policies carefully to avoid unexpected charges upon return.

If you plan to share driving, check if the rental company allows a second driver and whether there are additional fees. Some companies offer free second driver options under certain conditions.