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Travel offers immense rewards and enriching experiences for everyone. However, women may encounter unique challenges when traveling alone or in groups. Encouragingly, notable progress has been made, ensuring that informed female travelers can now enjoy more seamless and comforting car rental experiences. Here are some pre-trip tips designed to empower you with the knowledge to navigate potential biases, ensuring a positive car rental experience from start to finish.
While renting a vehicle in the United States is typically straightforward, a road trip in a foreign country may require additional steps. These helpful considerations are important to have on your radar before you get behind the wheel. A woman may encounter bias or discrimination in certain locations, so knowing legal expectations is essential for avoiding confrontation and potential discrimination.
Violating traffic laws or cultural customs could draw attention and harassment from locals or law enforcement. This is especially important in countries where there is a derogatory attitude toward women is prevalent. Following the law is essential for personal safety and demonstrating respect and responsibility, regardless of who you are.
There are countless rental car vendors dotted across the globe. Choosing one that is trustworthy, safe and respectful to you can be difficult from afar. Like with all things travel-related, research is pivotal. To raise your chances of having a smooth, comfortable journey, consider the following:
Opting for a well-established rental car company is your safest bet when renting a vehicle. These companies typically provide clear rental policies and guidelines to review beforehand. Additionally, booking through AAA Travel offers an extra layer of protection, ensuring support if any issues of discrimination or bias occur during your rental experience.
Embrace the adventure of travel with confidence, knowing that many companies are committed to diversity and inclusion. When renting a car, familiarize yourself with the company’s pro-diversity and anti-discrimination policies. Should you encounter any issues, you'll be well-prepared to address them, knowing your rights as a traveler.
To get an honest assessment of a company, read what other customers had to say about their experience. If no reviews specifically highlight diversity, consider the overall experiences people had with the company:
Remember, someone with a bad experience is likelier to leave a review than someone with a positive one. Use your judgment to gather the information needed to aid in your rental decision.
Booking in advance secures better deals and could save you from potential discriminatory pricing at the pickup desk. Hertz offers AAA Members a discount on U.S. prepaid rentals that help guarantee a vehicle awaits you, especially during peak rental times. Be sure to have a copy of your reservation information readily available to ensure that you receive what you are paid for.
Upon arrival, look for affirmations of inclusivity. These could include women’s rights stickers or other pro-diversity signage displayed around the facility. These indicators should give a sense of the company’s overall values.
To avoid unwanted attention, it is best to steer clear of flashy vehicles. Something that stands out could make you a potential target of criminal activity or discrimination .
Note: Vehicles with a manual transmission are the norm if you travel abroad. If one is available, requesting an automatic could significantly increase your bill.
Thoroughly review your rental agreement to avoid misunderstandings related to damage, return times and insurance policies.
Most rental agencies offer supplemental insurance. Before booking, review what is covered by your insurance, what is covered by your travel insurance, and what gaps there might be in terms of rental car coverage. You may want to purchase supplemental insurance from a third party or the rental agency.
Make sure the agent provides you with a detailed receipt at the counter that includes all charges and services.
Before you take off, thoroughly inspect your vehicle. Be sure to point out any pre-existing damage upfront and document the vehicle with your photos to provide evidence if a wrongful claim is filed. If the vehicle has a strong odor, doesn't operate properly, shows malfunctioning safety features, has a chipped windshield, high mileage or expired registration or safety inspection, you should request another vehicle to avoid being blamed for a breakdown.
If you end up in an accident, follow these steps:
Notify local authorities and get a police report for your documentation. Depending on the country, this could take an extended period of time.
Do not wait until it is time to return the vehicle to notify the rental company. They may have a specific place where the vehicle must be sent for assessment and, pending your terms, may provide you with another car. Document all conversations with the company for your records and be sure you know exactly where the car is sent if you are required to have it towed.
If you did not purchase supplemental insurance from the rental agency, call your provider to determine what your personal or travel insurance covers.
Make sure to get pictures of the damage done to all of the vehicles involved so that you have them for the claims process to dispute any predatory charges or false claims.
After an accident, gather contact information and witness accounts from all parties involved to ensure thorough documentation for investigations or claims, protecting against disputes.
Although purchasing a pre-paid fuel option may cost more, it can save valuable time when returning your vehicle. Hertz offers AAA Members a discount on prepaid fuel.
To ensure there are no false claims regarding the condition of your returned vehicle, drop it off during business hours so that you can be present for the return inspection. After the return inspection, request a detailed receipt for your records.
Some rental car companies charge exorbitant fees for late returns. To avoid these charges, turn your vehicle in on time.
These photos will provide you with a record of the vehicle’s condition upon return and could protect you should any disputes arise.
Do not allow yourself to be taken advantage of. If the rental company attempts to unjustly charge you for damages as a form of discrimination, greed or human error, take these steps.
Take a minute to review anything that mentions damage claims so that you have a clear understanding of your rights and the dispute process.
Please contact the rental car company immediately to dispute the damage claim and your credit card company to dispute payment.
Be ready to show your photos, receipts and inspection reports to rebuff false claims.
If the rental company refuses to remove the falsehoods despite your evidence, a legal counsel may be required to settle the claim.
Renting a car while traveling gives you the freedom to explore. Stay informed and prepared, especially if you're in a diverse and vulnerable group. Research inclusive rental companies, know local laws and inspect the car before the trip. Handle accidents methodically, document everything and dispute wrongful claims. With knowledge and prep, enjoy a safe journey and confidently embrace diverse cultures.
