Hiring a car is the perfect way to get around during your trip abroad. When choosing a hire car, remember to consider the size and type of car, and any extras that you may need. Extras should be ordered in well in advance, so that you can be sure that the car hire company will have them available. Don’t turn up at the rental desk and expect to obtain extras that have not been pre-booked, as it won’t always possible for the car hire company to fulfill your request. Not all hire cars will be fitted with everything that you want; the availability of extras will depend on the class and size of car you have requested.
The extras that are commonly available when you hire a car include:
Navigation systems – These give you step-by-step directions from your location to your destination. Some units have touch-screen controls and/or a voice recognition feature, and will alert you to traffic hold-ups, road works, detours and any other problem. Very few car rental companies in Uganda do have these gadgets so first inquire with any company that you wish to hire from whether they have such gadgets in order you don’t be caught by surprise.
Music systems – A broad selection of music will make driving in your hire car more enjoyable, especially on longer journeys. Some car hire companies offer radios with CD players, MP3 or iPod connectivity, satellite radio etc.However, some smaller hire cars won’t even have a CD player, so bear this in mind when booking if music is important to you.
Safety restraints for children – Child seats must be used for children at all times. You will find that these seats are a legal requirement in most places, but even if they aren’t, you should still use them. You will normally have to fit the chair into your hire car yourself, so take care in doing so and always check it afterwards. Remember to check that the belts fit correctly and are done up securely.However,most companies offer these amenities at relatively cheap extra costs. Children who are too old for an infant carrier or child seat may still need extra help to be safely buckled in. A booster seat ensures that the child is at the correct height for safe travel in the hire car. Never take a chance with children’s safety; it is against the law to not comply with the local regulations.
Fast-track service – Many car hire companies offer an upgraded check-in option, where you are fast tracked through the process of picking up your hire car. Everything will be ready for you, and there will be no standing in line, which is great after you have disembarked from a flight and just want to get to your hotel as quickly as possible.