Car Hire in San Francisco, Madrid, Spain

Make sure your rental agreement, identification, and insurance details are accessible throughout your rental period for easy retrieval if needed.

If you're looking for extra comfort or features, ask about upgrade possibilities at the rental desk. Often, there are discounted upgrades available at pickup.

Before you drive away, inspect the rental car for existing damage and ensure it is recorded. Taking photos can help prevent disputes upon return.

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the vehicle's controls and features before driving off. Knowing how to operate essentials like headlights, wipers, and navigation systems can enhance safety and convenience.

Before booking, review the rental agreement for any hidden fees such as airport surcharges, additional driver fees, or late return penalties. Understanding these can help you budget more effectively.

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 finalizing your booking, check if the rental company offers free cancellation. This can provide peace of mind if your travel plans change unexpectedly.

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.