By Jemima Skelley|
Every week, 9Travel shares a top travel tip from our readers or something our writers find. Have something to share? Email us at travel@nine.com.au for a chance to be featured in an upcoming story.
Planning on renting a car for your next holiday?
Despite the current fuel situation, road trips remain a great way to explore a new country, state, or region – in fact Turo has reported a 70 per cent year-on-year increase in EV/hybrid bookings.
But before you hit the road, there's one thing you can't forget to do.
Once your rental car keys are in your hot little hand, be sure to take a moment to stop and check out the entire car before leaving the rental lot.
If you bring the car back with any damage at all – even if it was there when you picked up the vehicle – you could be liable for repairs.
The best thing to do is to pull out your phone and film every part of the car's exterior – that way you have proof if anything does go wrong.
Look out for small scratches and dings you might have missed on first glance, because the rental car company workers might have overlooked it too.
To make the video legally useful, you need more than just a blurry sweep of the car – take your time.
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Here are the areas you should focus on.
Bumpers
This is the most common area for disputes. Crouch down and film the bottom of the front bumper, as scrapes from curbs or steep driveways are frequently missed at pickup but charged at drop-off.
Get close-ups of the corners where the bumper meets the fender (the curved section above the wheel.
Glass and Mirrors
Look for tiny "star" chips or "bullseyes" on the windscreen. A chip smaller than a coin can turn into a full windshield replacement charge later. On the side mirrors, check the outer housing for scuffs and the glass for cracks.
Wheels and Tyres
Rental companies are increasingly strict about "curb rash" (scratches on the metal rims), so film all four wheels closely.
Also, get a good look at the tyres, in case they're bald or getting close to it.
Roof
Most people forget the roof. If you're not tall enough to see it, use your phone to scan the roof for hail damage or dents from roof racks.
Interior
Inside the car, look for burns, stains, or tears on the seats.
Then start the car and film the dashboard to make sure no warning lights are on. It's also good to document the petrol level and odometer reading.
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Taking a video like this might seem like a drag when you're ready to start your holiday, but it can save you a huge headache down the track.
Do the exact same thing when you drop the car off as well, to prove you left it in the same condition you found it.
Drop us an email with all your wisdom to travel@nine.com.au, and your tip could be featured in an upcoming story on 9Travel.
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