Download Google maps offline
Before the trip, we recommend that you download the necessary maps to the Google Maps application on your smartphone. This will allow you to build travel routes and use offline navigation on the ground. Thus, you can significantly save on Internet roaming charges, as well as on the "Navigator" service. Downloading the map is easy. You should select the required area, set the desired scale and enter "ok maps" in the search field.
Cardiff is a popular tourist destination, so car rental is consistently in demand. The earlier you book a car, the more options there will be and the lower the prices will be. Choose transport online at least 6 weeks before your visit. Better yet, do it as soon as you start planning your vacation. If plans change, you can cancel your booking without penalty up to 48 hours before it starts.
The compact model is relevant for city trips in Cardiff. It can be Fiat 500 or Opel Corsa. Mountain routes require a more powerful four-wheel drive vehicle - Ford Foxus Estate or similar model. You can order an SUV for just €35 per day;
What you need to pay attention to at the time of receiving a car
Before picking up, you are required to carefully inspect the car and point out to the rental company manager for scratches, damage and defects, such as dirty seat upholstery. You should check the ignition and the fuel level in the tank. You need to know the conditions for returning the car - where exactly, with what amount of fuel to return the car.
The rental agreement must include a telephone number to contact the rental company. It is designed so that customers can get help in emergency situations, such as when a car breaks down or in the event of an accident. A call to the rental company should be done first, even before the arrival of the police.
Rental companies in Cardiff may offer different insurance options. They differ in price and set of options. Here are the basic types:
- Third Party Liability (TPL)/Third Liability Protection (TLP). This is a third party liability protection. If you are the culprit of an accident, the insurance will compensate for the costs of the victims for you.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). This is to protect your vehicle from any damage. She works with a franchise. This is the amount that you will have to pay in case of damage in any case. The company will cover anything over the limit. The insurance does not cover theft.
- Theft Insurance (TI)/Theft Protection (TP)/Theft Waiver (TW). This is car theft protection. Operates with a franchise.
- Super Loss Damage Waiver (SLDW)/Theft Protection+Collision Damage Waiver (TP+CDW). Full protection against theft and damage, even if you are the culprit of the accident.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). This is medical insurance for the driver and passengers.
If you want to save money and choose the cheapest insurance, carefully inspect the car upon receipt. Make sure the machine is not damaged.
When renting a car, you should pay attention to the fuel policy of rental companies. Often, when renting, tourists have to pay the cost of a full tank of fuel. This option is suitable for long-term rentals and long trips. But if you're only renting Cardiff for a day or two, or if you're only planning short trips, such as to a small island, then you probably won't need a full tank. You can get acquainted with the fuel policy in the "Important information" section of the car you have chosen.
According to the rental conditions, the mileage can be limited or unlimited. Travel lovers should choose the option without a limit. It will cost more, but in the end it will save. Check the appropriate box to filter offers with unlimited mileage.
Compare prices and conditions from different car rental companies
When choosing a rental car in Cardiff, you should carefully read all the terms of the rental. This is due to the fact that different companies may differ not only in rental prices, but also in conditions for limiting mileage, the cost of additional services, and the amount of the deposit. To compare rental conditions, it is convenient to use the search and booking system on our website.
How to choose a rental company
When renting a car in Cardiff, you should carefully read all the conditions offered by the rental company. Depending on the specific company, they may differ in mileage, insurance coverage, deposit amount, accompanying services and their cost. You should choose proven and reliable companies that offer new cars and stand out due to the well-thought-out organization of work with customers. Additionally, you can study the rating of distributors, which is also available on our website.
If we talk about the best companies in Cardiff, then it is worth highlighting sixt with a rating 9.8 and budget, the average rating of which is 9.7 points.
Getting a car at a rental office
You should show a voucher and personal documents. A manager draws up a lease agreement. The deposit is blocked on the card.
Before leaving the rental, turn on the ignition, find out the amount of fuel and compare it with what is written in the contract.
Inspect the car carefully. Point out to the manager any paint chips and scuffs. The employee must record the damage. Take a photo yourself: they should show the defect, the number of the car and the employee of the rental company. This will help to avoid problems when returning the car: it will prove that it was not you who torn the upholstery or scratched the fender.