Car Rental Extras: Are They Worth the Additional Cost in Bucharest?
When traversing through the vibrant city of Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, a rental car is often the chosen method of transportation. Places like Palace of the Parliament to Carol Park and beyond beckon you to explore. And what better way to do that than in the comfort of a rental car, cruising along the snaky roads, encased in the magical charm of a city with deep roots in history and culture. It's no surprise that many travelers opt for this convenience. But when you book your car rental, do you also consider the car rental extras? Are they worth the additional cost in Bucharest? Let's break it down.
The Common Car Rental Extras
From additional drivers to GPS and car seats, insurance coverage, and prepaid fuel: there are numerous car rental extras that companies tend to offer. And while they add to the convenience associated with a rental car, they also add to your bill, and quite significantly at times. Understanding whether these extras are worth the additional cost can help you make a more informed decision.
Additional Drivers
This extra can be quite beneficial if you're traveling long distances or with a partner who can share the driving responsibilities. However, remember to check the driving laws in Bucharest to avoid any possible penalties. For instance, the driving age in Bucharest is 18 years. Upon evaluating these factors, if you believe that the value of having an additional driver surpasses the costs, then this extra is worth considering.
GPS
GPS can be a blessing when navigating through unknown territory, and this extra is frequently on demand in big cities like Bucharest. However, cross-check the charges with other available options like smartphone navigation apps, which often provide similar services free of cost. If data is not an issue, you might want to skip this extra. Otherwise, in areas with uncertain connectivity or for those who prefer a separate device for navigation, a GPS can be quite advantageous.
Car Seats
If you’re traveling with a child, safety should be your topmost priority. In this case, investing in a child car seat could prove to be essential. Still, bring your car seat if possible, as rental seats sometimes do not meet the necessary safety standards or may be uncomfortable for the child.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage is probably one of the most important extras you should consider. While insurance can significantly increase your rental costs, they provide peace of mind, knowing that you're covered in case of any accidental damage. However, it is essential to review your credit card policies before opting for this. Some credit cards offer car insurance as part of their benefits, which might help you save on this extra.
Prepaid Fuel
The prepaid fuel offer allows you to return the car without refueling, which adds to the convenience when rushing to the airport or preventing the potential language obstacle at local gas stations. However, keep in mind that rental companies often charge more for this service than local market prices, and they don't offer refunds for unused fuel.
To conclude, are they worth the additional cost in Bucharest?
Whether car rental extras are worth their additional cost in Bucharest largely depends on your specific needs and circumstances. You must weigh the convenience they offer against the additional price you have to pay. Indeed, some extras offer significant benefits to specific groups of people, such as insurance coverage for those cautious of accidental damage or a GPS for those without a reliable data connection. So, always review these options carefully during your car rental booking process, as a consciously made decision can significantly enhance your experience in Bucharest.