Common Mistakes When Renting a Car in Summer and How to Avoid Them

Summer season stands as the peak period for road activity in Spain, with a significant trend of travellers opting for rental vehicles.

This preference is particularly notable among those travelling in large groups and foreign tourists, whose numbers are expected to reach 98 million this year, 4 million more than the previous year, according to Andersen Consulting.

Renting a car provides "the opportunity to explore and discover new places with the greatest possible freedom. Moreover, it represents a flexible, safe, comfortable, and sustainable mobility option," states Juan Luis Barahona, executive president of FENEVAL.

However, to avoid unpleasant surprises, the industry warns about the most common mistakes users make, especially when booking online.

Ignoring contract details can lead to extra charges for things like exceeding daily mileage limits, which some companies impose.

Failing to review insurance clauses is a critical error. Policies can range from basic third-party coverage (where the driver bears all rental vehicle costs in case of an accident) to comprehensive coverage without excess, including options with excess. Understanding these differences is crucial to avoid surprises.

Not knowing how to act in the event of an accident or theft can worsen the situation and void insurance coverage, potentially leading to additional charges. It's essential to have emergency phone numbers and the policy number at hand.

One of the most common mistakes is not documenting possible damages (scratches, dents) both inside and outside the vehicle before starting the rental. This can prevent future disputes upon return. It's also recommended to take photos when returning the car.

Failing to comply with the fuel policy (picking it up full and returning it full, or picking it up empty and returning it empty) usually results in significant surcharges.

Returning the vehicle outside the stipulated contract hours can lead to significant charges, from hourly fees to a full day's charge, and more seriously, the possible voiding of insurance coverage as the contract has expired.

It is also mandatory that all individuals who will drive the vehicle are listed in the contract. Any damage caused by an unauthorized driver will be the sole responsibility of the contract holder, and factors such as age or experience may influence the suitability to drive certain models.

FENEVAL emphasizes that "car rental companies work diligently and with commitment every day to offer modern, safe, and well-maintained fleets to their clients." Therefore, it advises users to review contract conditions, check assistance phone numbers, and clarify any doubts when picking up the vehicle, always trusting the protocols established by specialized personnel.