Choosing a hire car becomes far easier once you know what the journey actually demands. This guide works through the decisions in order: first what to tell the hire firm, then which vehicle shape suits the job, followed by timings and finally the money questions worth raising before you commit.
What to put in your first enquiry
A well-written opening message saves days of back-and-forth. Say who will be driving, what you intend to carry, and roughly when you want the keys. Mention any awkward items by name, a rolled carpet, a chest of drawers, cycling gear, because the answer may change the vehicle class suggested.
Matching the car to the job
Once your needs are on the table, think honestly about space. Three passengers with soft overnight bags cope happily in a hatchback; the same trio with suitcases and a flatpack wardrobe will not. Ask the provider about boot depth, how the rear seats fold, and whether the load area stays level.
Nailing down collection and return
With the right vehicle identified, fix firm handover times. Hire periods typically run in strict 24-hour blocks, so returning late without warning can add a whole extra day to the bill. Confirm the exact opening and closing hours for collection, agree what happens if your plans slip, and check whether an out-of-hours return is possible. Seasonal demand around Devon can tighten availability, so once timings are settled, ask the desk to hold the vehicle against your name.
Terms, deposits and cover to settle last
Only now should you talk money. Ask for the security deposit amount in writing, how fuel should be left, and what excess applies if the bodywork picks up a scuff. Query whether a damage waiver is offered and what it would cost. Mileage arrangements deserve a direct question too, confirm any cap that applies and what happens if you exceed it, so the final invoice holds no surprises.
Questions before you book
Which details matter most when comparing car hire options in Totnes?
Focus on the fit between vehicle and load, the exact 24-hour billing window, and the deposit plus excess terms. A cheaper daily rate can be undercut by a large deposit hold or a tight mileage allowance, so weigh the whole package rather than the headline figure.
Can I add a second driver to a Totnes hire car after booking?
Usually yes, but it is far simpler to declare every likely driver when you first enquire. Each added person must normally meet the same licence and endorsement checks as the lead driver, and fees may apply, so raising it early avoids delays at the desk.
