The family road trip is a time to make memories and share new experiences between parents and children. Sun, comfort and the open road are all waiting to be explored with the right set of wheels. Here are a few quick tips for a smooth family car rental experience:
Choose a vehicle that will seat all the family and have spare room for luggage, sports equipment and other large items like pushchairs. If the family is used to a people carrier and a hatchback is waiting at the airport, then you will be in for a tight squeeze. Make sure there are enough seats AND boot space, as nobody wants to belt-up the family in the backseat only to realise an upgrade is needed to fit in the suitcases!
Another way to make sure you have a spacious vehicle is to book early. People carriers, MPVs and minibuses go quickly during the summer holidays and automatic vehicles are the most popular on foreign roads. Renting the car immediately after purchasing plane tickets is a guaranteed way to get your car booked early. If you miss out on the mini-bus or MPV you wanted, do not fear – there are still ways around this apparent catastrophe.
There is more than one way to transport the family in comfort and luxury. Booking two smaller cars instead of one big car could give you the flexibility you need. A van-sized vehicle is huge and that’s great, but it can be unwieldy if you are not familiar with driving a large vehicle. Two cars are easier to park, allow the family to split into groups and can be cheaper to hire than one large vehicle. If you are travelling with more than two adults who can drive, this is a great option because you can share driving duties. Couple this option with a ‘free additional driver’ offer and you are onto a winner.
Car rental companies offer great deals to enhance your hire experience. Free upgrades and add-ons are yours for the taking if you read through the company’s best offers. Promo codes and special deals could save you money with freebies like additional drivers and sat-navs. If you are a car hire regular, call to enquire what your rental company can do for you in return for your loyalty. Trust is rewarded in the car rental industry and becoming a familiar customer with a hire company could see you with a free vehicle upgrade.
For hiring abroad, take some time to research the laws regarding vehicle safety in your destination. Certain countries have specific laws regarding the use of child seats based on child height. Other countries, such as France, require entire travel kits to be present in the car. Ask your hire company about unique road laws in their country and how they can ensure you are road legal.
Gatwick Car and Van Rental are dedicated to excellent customer service and offer an extensive range of vehicles. For unbeatable MPV and minibus hire, contact our team today. Our MPVs and minibuses are all under 4 years old, so a comfortable, safe and reliable car is guaranteed. We offer free on-site airport parking, free airport drop-offs and pick-ups and are based just minutes from Gatwick airport. Get in touch with our experienced team to find the best deals!
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