There’s so much to explore around the country — from the exciting cosmopolitans to the diversity in and around the gorgeous beaches and lush forests. While there is a decent network of public transport, one of the most convenient ways to get around is by driving a rental car. Since costs can add up quickly, one needs to look for an affordable and reliable car rental company that meets their needs.

1. Find a good, affordable car rental company
Just like one would look up hotels and flights before a trip, it’s a wise idea to shortlist good, well-renowned car rental companies.

The next step is to check the reviews for each company. Pay attention to what previous customers have said about the company, the cars they offer, and the overall quality of service. This information will help one build a realistic perception of the rental company.

Next, it’s time to consider one’s budget. Remember that fuel costs are not included in the rental cost, so these charges must be accounted for separately. Ask the companies for a quotation and any deals or discounts they can offer. This will help one find the best deal for their money.

Note that the cost of renting a car in the country depends on various factors, such as the size and type of vehicle and the rental duration . Companies may charge anywhere between R$60 and R$120 per day for an economy car. SUVs or luxury sedans may have a daily charge of R$150 or more. Many companies may offer better deals for longer rental periods (one week or more).

2. Book well in advance
Don’t book the rental car last minute . Those trying to save costs and find more affordable cars must call and book around two months before their trip, as the prices tend to be the lowest during that time. This pro tip will also give individuals enough time to research various companies, compare options, negotiate prices, and ensure availability on the day of travel.

3. Review the rental plans
Every car rental company has its own set of rules and regulations. To ensure that one does not end up falling for scams or paying more, it’s important to carefully read through the fine print for the selected plan and vehicle. Take a minute to check the seating capacity of the vehicle to ensure that it can comfortably accommodate all passengers and luggage.

Those planning to travel long distances or without a set itinerary may find unlimited car rental plans more affordable. Conversely, others may find it more economical to work with distance-restricted plans.

4. Pay attention to the documentation
To rent a car in the country , one needs to meet certain criteria . To begin with , it is important to know that most car companies have a minimum age requirement of 25 years old. Some companies may be willing to rent their vehicles to  drivers as young as 21 years old for an additional fee. This will increase the overall cost of the rental.

To make the rental process easier, drivers must have all their necessary documents while  booking and driving. These include a valid driver’s insurance that was issued over two years ago  and a passport of the same nationality as the driver’s license. International travelers can submit an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to proceed  with the rental process.

5. Keep a credit card at hand
To confirm vehicle rental , companies will require a physical credit card issued under the renter’s name. This should be authorized for international transactions (if applicable), within the expiry date, and issued by a physical banking institution. The card must also have an available limit hold for a security deposit.

Some companies may be willing to offer car rentals without a credit card or a deposit, but this may be restricted to specific vehicles in their inventory. To use this “no deposit” service when renting a car , individuals will be asked to pre-register with the company at least 48 hours before the start of the rental period. When using cash, it is best to pay in local currency (Brazilian reais) to avoid dynamic conversion charges.

6. Get comprehensive insurance
When signing a rental agreement, opt for comprehensive insurance to get the best possible coverage for the vehicle. This will cover any collision damage, theft, and third-party liabilities. Some companies may also offer roadside assistance, which can be extremely beneficial for those planning to take longer trips.

To ensure that the car rental experience remains affordable , it is advisable to avoid taking the trip on a long weekend or around the holidays, as the rental company here may add significant surcharges due to increased demand. It may also add several hours of driving time due to traffic on the roads . So, it’s best to time the travel accordingly.