Renting a car while traveling gives you freedom, flexibility, and full control of your itinerary. Whether you’re exploring a new city abroad or discovering hidden gems within Nigeria, understanding how car rentals work can save you money and prevent unnecessary stress.
At Links & Tours Ltd., we help travelers access reliable, affordable car rental services both locally and internationally. Here’s everything tourists need to know before renting a car.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand, season, and location. Booking early helps you:
Lock in cheaper rates
Access a wider selection of vehicles
Avoid last-minute price spikes, especially during holidays
Peak periods like December, summer holidays, and long weekends tend to sell out quickly.
Most countries require:
A valid driver’s license
An International Driver’s Permit (IDP) for non-residents
A minimum age (often 21–25 years old)
Before traveling, confirm the requirements for your destination to avoid rental refusal.
Car rental companies often require:
A valid credit card
A refundable security deposit
Payment at pick-up or online
Some locations accept debit cards, but deposits may be higher.
Insurance protects you from major out-of-pocket costs in case of accident or theft.
Common options include:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Liability Insurance
Theft Protection
Personal Accident Insurance
You can also check if your bank card already offers travel or rental car insurance to avoid paying twice.
Every country has different regulations. You should understand:
Speed limits
Toll charges
Parking rules
Restricted driving zones
Traffic signs
Road conditions
For example, some countries drive on the left, others on the right.
Car rental fuel policies vary. Common ones include:
Full-to-Full: Pick up full tank, return full tank (best option)
Prepaid Fuel: Pay upfront, return empty
Full-to-Empty: Usually more expensive
Always confirm the policy to avoid unexpected charges.
Never drive off without checking the car. Ensure you:
Inspect body scratches, dents, and windshield
Check tyre condition
Test the lights, AC, brakes, and wipers
Take photos or videos as proof
This helps avoid being charged for damage you didn’t cause.
Some rentals offer:
Unlimited mileage
Limited mileage (extra fees for exceeding daily km limit)
Choose based on your travel plans.
Returning the car late—even by 1 hour—can attract extra fees. Also confirm:
After-hours drop-off procedures
Additional charges for different drop-off locations
Airport surcharge fees
Car rentals often charge additional fees for:
GPS
Child seats
Wi-Fi devices
Additional drivers
Cross-border travel permissions
Ask if you can use your own accessories to save costs.
📧 info@linksandtours.com
📍 Lagos Office
☎️ +234 803 470 8980