Need to rent a car for your vacation or business travels in Uganda? Comparing prices online can save you a bundle. But make sure you compare the total cost — not just the advertised rate — because fees and options can increase the base price dramatically.
What to know
keep these things in mind as you start your search for a rental car.
Size Matters
the size of the hired car can impact the price you pay. Terms like “compact,” “mid-size,” and “luxury” can vary across rental car companies. To illustrate car sizes, companies usually provide car models or suggest how many passengers the car seats safely.
Shop and Compare
Search across several websites for the type of car you’re interested in hiring. To get an idea of the best price you can get, search for rates at individual rental car company websites and price comparison websites.
Money-Saving Deals or Specials
If your travel plans are flexible, you may be able to hire a car when price breaks are available. Try searching for specials geared to the length of time you need the vehicle. You may find better deals if you book in advance, or book in combination with a flight or hotel. Read any fine print about restrictions on special offers, including blackout dates when an advertised price may not be available. Some companies also offer special rates for basically family car hire or long period rentals.
Question Fees
Comparing advertised rates for rental cars may not give you an accurate picture of the price you will pay. Comparison of car hires prices that includes all mandatory fees and charges, as well as charges for options.
Some fees may be quoted when you reserve a car online, though you may not find out about all of the charges until you go to the rental office to pick up your car. Read your contract carefully, and look for fees triggered by specific events — like accidents.
Your Driving Record Is Important
Many companies check driving records when customers arrive at the counter, and reject those whose records don’t meet company standards. Even if you have a confirmed reservation, you may be disqualified from renting a car for recent violations, including:
- reckless driving
- seat belt law violations
- accidents, regardless of fault
- leaving the scene of an accident
- convictions for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- driving with an invalid, suspended, or revoked license
Ask the rental car company in advance whether they check customers’ driving records.
Coverage Options
Rental companies usually offer driver’s additional coverage options — for a price. If you buy their coverage, they say you can minimize your liability while driving their rental car in Uganda. However, you may be covered already through your own auto or homeowner’s policies. Read your insurance policies for specifics, and call your insurers if you’re uncertain about the coverage. If you’re traveling on business, you may be covered under your employer’s insurance. Some credit card companies and motor clubs provide members with free rental protection when you use their cards to pay for rentals.
Salespeople also may try to sell you a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), or a Loss Damage Waiver. These waivers guarantee that the rental company will pay for damages to your rental car. It’s not technically collision insurance the company won’t pay for any injuries to you or damages to your personal property. Coverage under your medical insurance plan might offer protection that CDW coverage lacks.
If you don’t buy CDW coverage or aren’t covered by your personal auto insurance policy, you accept responsibility for any damages and could be liable for the full value of the car. Some rental companies hold you liable only for a portion of the value.
If you purchase CDW, your coverage still could be revoked if you damage the rental car while:
Rental car companies may offer other coverage options for additional charges. Prices and policies for coverage vary among companies. If you decide to pay for extra coverage, ask for details.
