Renting vehicles can seem a daunting experience at the best of times, particularly as for many people their first experience will be overseas, where they will be nervously contemplating driving on the opposite side. Most people are too caught up in that to consider that there are other aspects of the rental that you need to consider.

First off – driving licence protocol. You’d be surprised how many people don’t realise that they may need to show their driving licence, or increasingly, to obtain an online code to allow the hire company to electronically check your licence. Make sure you check this out before!

Next – check the car over thoroughly, inside and out – ensure any damage is accurately recorded on the delivery note, and take date-stamped photos of any damage to the vehicle on delivery. Hire companies do charge for damage, and it’s not cheap. It is by no means unheard of for damage to be passed to the wrong person, due to inattention to the documents.

Check the oil level, and whether any warning lights are present; don’t accept a vehicle with warning lights, and ensure they top up the oil if it’s low. Check the fuel level too – you’ll have to return it with the same amount.