An Important Tip for Renting a Car Abroad: Why You Should Update the Rental Company in Case of a Flight Delay
Renting a car abroad is a great solution that lets you travel independently and comfortably. However, flight delays are common, especially in challenging times such as during war or other emergencies. So what’s important to know so that the car you booked waits for you even if your flight is delayed?
What’s the Problem?
Car rental companies, even the big ones, don’t hold a booked car forever. They usually commit to holding your booking only for a few hours after the agreed pickup time. If you don’t arrive on time and don’t let them know, the booking may be cancelled and the car given to another customer – which can lead to frustration and problems, especially if you landed late or at a destination with limited supply.
The Tip: Update the Rental Company If Your Flight Is Delayed
In sensitive times, such as when there’s a war in Israel, flight delays or cancellations have unfortunately become more common. So if you’re delayed because of a cancellation, a schedule change or any other reason, it’s very important to update the rental company.
How to Make Sure the Car Waits for You?
- Save the contact details in advance: when you book a car, make sure you have the contact details of the rental branch at the airport. In case of a delay, you can contact them directly and update them.
- Use the website or app: many companies let you update the pickup time or report delays via their website or app – it’s quick and easy.
- Call if necessary: if the delay happened after takeoff and you don’t have internet access, contact the company as soon as you land.
- Show proof of the delay: if required, send the rental company updated confirmation of the flight schedule, such as an email from the airline or a screenshot.
Why Is This Especially Important Now?
In times like the current war in Israel, there are many changes to flights: delays, schedule changes and sometimes outright cancellations. In such situations, it’s easy to forget the rental details and assume the car will wait. In practice, car rental companies aren’t always aware of our unique situation here in Israel, so the responsibility for updating them falls on us.
More Tips:
- Customer service: choose a company with available, accessible customer service, especially at destinations where you land at unusual hours.
- Extra insurance: if there’s a concern about further cancellations, check the option of adding cancellation or change insurance, which makes unexpected changes easier.
Bottom Line
If you know your flight is delayed or cancelled, especially in complex times like the war in Israel, don’t forget to update the rental company. A simple update can prevent a lot of headaches and make sure the car you booked is waiting for you when you arrive.
The information is based on reliable sources, but it’s recommended to check every detail with your rental company. Flight Hunter
