Three essential tips for hiring a car

Often the best way to explore the Sunshine State is by setting up an epic playlist and hitting the road.

For those looking to hire a car for their next trip, RACQ Motoring Editor Ged Bulmer has three key pieces of advice.

Make sure the car you choose is fit for purpose

For those travelling with a family or a group of friends, the most important piece of advice is to ensure you don’t compromise on space.

While you may think a hatchback will do the job, don’t forget about all the luggage and extra belongings you have. There is nothing worse than being a few hours into your trip and your passengers are fighting over space.

Even though an SUV might be more costly than hiring a hatchback, think about the comfort of your passengers, and your peace of mind.

Conversely, there’s no point hiring a large seven-seat SUV if you’re a couple or small family and don’t need all that extra space.

Typically, the larger and more luxurious the vehicle, the higher the cost to hire, so we recommend being realistic about how you plan on using the car, and how much size, space and power you really need.

RACQ members save on car hire. 

Use it as an opportunity to try before you buy

If you’re on the lookout for a new car or wanting to check out the latest technology on offer, hiring a car for your next holiday can be a great way to take an extended test drive.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more readily available and charging infrastructure is expanding across the State, but some consumers are still worried about whether the technology is right for them. 

Hiring an EV for your next holiday is a great way to experience this new technology over an extended period and in a pressure-free environment.

The same is true for many of the fast-changing new technologies being introduced on late-model cars, including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and new digital dash designs.

The Queensland Electric Super Highway is the State’s network of electric vehicle charging stations, which connects drivers to dozens of coastal and inland charging points.

Making planned charging pitstops at these coastal and regional towns also allows you to spend more time exploring our great State – it’s a win-win.

Check your paperwork and inspect your car

To ensure your car hire experience is a smooth one, there are some key things to consider before you get behind the wheel. 

Make sure you read all the paperwork and understand your rights and commitments before you sign on the dotted line, including the fuel policy, insurance options, mileage limit and return process.

Asking questions of the car hire company is a good place to start if you are confused by the fine print. That way you will avoid any unexpected costs when you receive your final invoice.

Before you set off, confirm that the odometer mileage displayed matches the paperwork, and that the fuel tank is full. If you decide to hire an EV, check with the rental provider if the vehicle needs to be fully-charged upon return.

Another crucial step is to inspect and take photos of any signs of damage, such as dents, scrapes and scratches before you start driving.

Take particular note of wheels and get down low enough to have a look for scrapes under the bumpers and spoilers.

Do the same for the boot, luggage bay and interior, making sure the seats and fabrics aren’t damaged or stained.

RACQ members can access car hire discounts all year round with Hertz, Thrifty, Europcar, Dollar, and SIXT.