Common Car Rental Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

March 12, 2025

Introduction: Don’t Let These Mistakes Ruin Your Trip!

Renting a car in El Salvador is the best way to explore the country, but many travelers make avoidable mistakes that cost them time, money, and headaches.

Here are the five most common car rental mistakes—and how to avoid them for a stress-free trip!

1️⃣ Not Reading the Rental Agreement

Many travelers skip reading the contract and later get surprised by hidden fees.

🔹 How to Avoid It:
✅ Always check mileage limits, fuel policies, and insurance coverage.
✅ Ask about deposit requirements and refund policies.
✅ Rent from a transparent company like My Circle—no hidden costs!

2️⃣ Skipping the Car Inspection

🚨 Mistake: Driving off without checking for existing damage.
📸 Solution: Take photos/videos of the car before leaving the rental lot.

✅ Look for scratches, dents, or missing accessories.
✅ Make sure the rental company acknowledges any damage before you leave.

3️⃣ Ignoring Insurance Options

🚗 What happens if you skip insurance? You risk huge repair costs in case of an accident or theft.

🔹 How to Protect Yourself:
✅ Check if your credit card covers rental car insurance.
✅ Choose a rental plan with collision and liability coverage.
✅ Ask My Circle about affordable insurance options for peace of mind.

4️⃣ Choosing the Wrong Car Type

Many travelers rent a small car without considering road conditions.

🔹 How to Pick the Right Car:
✅ For city trips: A compact car is perfect.
✅ For beaches & mountains: Choose a 4×4 or SUV.
✅ For families: Get a spacious sedan or van.

At My Circle, you can find the perfect car for your trip!

5️⃣ Booking at the Last Minute

🚨 Mistake: Waiting until arrival to rent a car = Limited choices & higher prices.

🔹 Best Strategy:
✅ Book in advance to secure the best rates.
✅ Avoid peak season price hikes.
✅ Use My Circle for an easy, hassle-free reservation.