Hoe kies ik de beste huurauto?

Follow these six steps when hiring a car

For many people, the choice of cars is overwhelming when they stand at the car rental company to hire a vehicle. You need a car, but have no idea which one to choose. This is also difficult, as the differences between passenger cars are small and often relate to personal taste. Nevertheless, there are definitely a number of aspects you can select well when hiring a car.

Below is a step-by-step guide to renting a car to help you make the best choice.

Manual or automatic

In the Netherlands, more people still drive manual cars than in, for example Japan English America. In the past, there were clear reasons why we preferred manual cars here. The cars were often more economical to use and the engine power was optimally used.

Door de technologische ontwikkelingen in de autobranche zijn de differences between automatic and manual cars become increasingly smaller and there is a noticeable increase in the number of vending machines in the Netherlands.

Nowadays, the choice when renting a car is therefore more focused on experience and comfort. Are you always used to changing gears while driving? Or do you just find it sportier? Then choose a manual transmission car.

However, it's not difficult to drive an automatic, you get used to it quickly and it's often more comfortable. Do you often struggle to control the clutch properly the first time you drive a new car? In that case, choosing an automatic is best. Read more here Advantages and disadvantages of an automatic and manual car.

See here a overview of all rental cars, whether manual or automatic.

2. Luggage compartment

When hiring a car, a distinction is often made based on the amount of luggage space. The differences can range from 100 to 1500 litres. Therefore, determine for yourself in advance how much luggage space you will need and take this into account when choosing which car to hire.

For example, if you are going on holiday with 4 people, it is best to station car rentals that offer enough space so you can also travel comfortably. Do you only need to rent a car for a business meeting, or are you going to the beach as a couple? Then choose a smaller model with less luggage space and pay more attention to extra services such as air conditioning.

Moving house, but a van is too big? Or not used to driving a van? Then you can always opt for a smaller moving solution: the estate car. You can fold down the rear seats, which increases the luggage space. tripled to no less than 1500 litres. This is ideal for moving loose and small furniture.

3. Petrol or Diesel when hiring a car?

Does it matter if you choose petrol or diesel when hiring a car? It depends. The Rental prices doesn't differ much for most Car rental companies. Diesel is often more advantageous when you rent the car for a longer period, covering long distances. This could be when you go on holiday or when you have several business appointments several days in a row that are far apart. Also, be aware that you need to refuel the rental car; read why rental companies want you to refuelling the car.

4. Hiring a car for your holiday

In the Netherlands, there is a clear difference in price between petrol and diesel. On average, diesel is 30p cheaper per litre. Are you going on holiday and are you about to rent a car? Then first check the fuel prices for petrol and diesel in your holiday destination. This is because large differences per country.

Pay extra attention when you go Great Britain or Spain travel. Diesel is often almost as expensive here, or sometimes even more expensive than petrol. Also in countries such as, for example Hungary English Czech Republic Do you pay more for diesel than petrol? So, make sure you check the current prices thoroughly when you go on holiday with a rental car.

5. The car rental company's service

Car rental insurance

The service can differ per company. Therefore, please inquire how the car insurance is arranged, how they handle personal data such as your driving licence and whether it is possible that the The driver, not the tenant. But in addition, it is also useful to inquire about the excess on the hire car.

Damage to hire car

Inform yourself thoroughly beforehand about the rules when the car is damaged.

Payment

With most car rental companies, you can pay in multiple ways. For example, with some companies, it is possible to pay by credit card, or you can Pay later. Always proceed with caution when sharing identification, therefore read our tips to to prevent identity fraud.