Hidden Prices and Extra Charges When Renting a Car: What Should You Pay Attention To?

1. Starting Price and Insurance Fees
   Car rental companies typically try to attract customers with attractive starting prices. However, these prices often only reflect the basic fees and do not include insurance, taxes, and other extra charges. Insurance options play an important role in the rental process. Basic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but additional policies (like theft insurance or accident insurance) may come with extra fees. Therefore, it is important to clarify the insurance coverage and which insurances are subject to additional fees in advance.

2. Fuel Policy
   Car rental companies have different fuel policies. These include options like "Full to Full" (pick up the car full and return it full) or "Full to Empty" (pick up full and return empty). The "Full to Empty" policy generally leads to higher costs because when the car is returned, fuel charges will be added. If possible, agreeing to a "Full to Full" policy can help you avoid extra fuel charges.

3. Mileage Limits
   Many car rental companies impose mileage limits on the vehicle's use. If you exceed a certain number of kilometers during the rental period, additional charges may apply. Especially if you are planning long trips, it's important to check the mileage limits in the rental contract. Also, choosing companies that offer unlimited mileage options can help you avoid surprise charges on long trips.

4. Extra Equipment and Services
   If you request extra services such as a child seat, GPS, or an additional driver, these services may be subject to additional charges. Therefore, it's important to check which extra equipment is included for free and which ones come with extra fees before renting the car. If you need specific equipment, planning ahead and requesting those services along with their pricing list can help you.

5. Age Restrictions and Extra Fees
   Some car rental companies may charge extra fees based on age. Typically, drivers under 25 years of age may face higher charges. These extra fees can increase the total cost of the rental. If you are under 25, it's a good idea to inquire about the additional charges the company may impose.

6. Payment Methods and Deposits
   Car rentals usually require a credit card as a deposit. The deposit amount varies depending on the time of rental and the company's policy. Additionally, using a credit card for payment usually allows for easy return of the deposit. However, some companies may also ask for cash deposits. Clarifying the deposit details and payment terms will help you avoid unexpected surprises.

7. Return Fees and Delivery Terms
   When the rental period ends, it's important to return the car on time. Otherwise, additional fees may be applied as the rental period extends. Furthermore, the return location can also affect the fees. For example, returning the car at a location outside the city may result in extra return fees. Learning about the return and delivery conditions in advance will give you a significant advantage when planning your budget.

8. Legal and Tax Charges
   There may also be tax charges that are not included in the rental price but are required by law. Most companies apply a tax rate of around 18% on the rental price. This tax is outside of the price specified in the rental agreement, so the final amount you pay may differ from the initially quoted amount.

Conclusion
Car rental can involve many details that require attention. Hidden prices and extra fees can shake your budget, but by being mindful of these aspects, you can avoid surprise costs. Before proceeding with the rental process, carefully review prices and contract conditions, inquire about insurance options, and check for additional services to avoid hidden fees. With proper planning, you can enjoy a secure and reasonably priced car rental experience.