Tips: Renting a car

Want to travel out of town but feel too tired to drive, or do you need an extra car to take your entire family to your hometown during the upcoming Idul Fitri holiday? Renting a car could be your best choice.

Renting a car enhances the flexibility of any trip, be it business or pleasure. The information below will help you before you make any arrangements with a car rental company.

Requirements

Car rental companies generally require you to show a personal identification card, such as a KTP card for locals or a passport for foreigners, in addition to a valid driver's license. The person renting the car should be at least 21 years of age and no more than 60 years of age.

Booking charge

Many car rental companies impose a booking charge of up to 25 percent of the total amount you have to pay. The balance is paid when you pick up the car. Most car rental companies prefer that you pay the rental fee with a credit card rather than cash.

Rental deposit

You will likely be required to provide a deposit that will be used to pay additional rental charges or other charges arising during the rental, such as the extra use of the car or if there is damage to the car. The amount of the deposit is generally equivalent to the total rental fee you have to pay. If there are no additional charges, the deposit will be returned in full, though you sometimes have to wait for up to a week to receive the money. Some rental car companies, however, return the deposit upon the return of the vehicle.

Rental cost

Rental car companies generally charge two basic rates: a daily rate with limited mileage, and a daily rate with unlimited mileage. Rates vary according to the size and brand of the vehicle. Renting a deluxe car such as Volvo will cost you at least Rp 2.5 million a day or Rp 9.5 million a week , while renting a Kijang van will cost about Rp 600,000 a day or Rp 2.75 million a week

Gasoline

As most car rental companies provide vehicles with full tanks of gasoline, you must also return the vehicle with a full tank.

Drivers

Most rental car companies can provide drivers if required. The service of a driver is part of the special packages offered by companies. You will have to pay a surcharge for the additional hours worked by the driver.

Rental terms

Make sure you carefully read the rental agreement to see what the rental rate covers, possible restrictions, and any liabilities for you. --- The Jakarta Post