Rent a Car on Debit Card
Are you looking into renting a car for that upcoming weekend trip? If so, a credit card is very much handy in these kind of situations but incase if you don’t have a credit card to spare? Fear not, today with the frugal lifestyle finally emerging with people leaning more towards a debit card, it is very much possible to rent a car using a debit card.
While this phenomenon is quickly picking up pace abroad, sadly Pakistan, currently, does not support any legal and authorized car rental companies that support rentals on a debit card.
When it comes to making rental transactions on a debit card, the rules can vary and this can leave people feeling left out and hopeless, not to mention the hefty charges that come with it. Fortunately, the process is very much doable and successful depending on your preferred rental company’s policies. The process does require a lot of documental proof and other travel details.
Here’s a step by step guide on how to rent a car abroad using your local debit card:
Increase your deposit in your bank account
As we all know, a debit card only has as much money to show as is present in your bank account. In order to guarantee security and make up for any possible damages, your car rental company may charge you as high as 200 USD in order to accept your debit card transaction.
Credit check is vital
Going hand in hand with point 1, a car rental company banks on your ability to pay up any damage costs to their product. That being said, a car rental company can always ask you for your current credit score and previous credit history before they proceed further. A lower score could mean that you will be refused for using your debit card.
Disclose your Travel itinerary & Documental proof
Car rental companies can breathe a sigh of relief when you disclose your travel details before booking the car. You might have to show your return tickets if you are looking for car rentals near an airport for example.
Insurance matters
A personal car insurance increases your credibility and raises your chances to proceeding ahead. Remember that a credit card assures that all damage costs will be covered, something that we don’t get with a debit card. Having an insurance gives additional relief to the company that any unforeseen expenses and costs will be covered.
Extra IDs and Documents matter
Showing up with your passport, proof of your permanent residence and any such utility bills definitely help in making your case stronger.
Conclusion
Today, many major rental companies including Alamo, Avis, Hertz and Enterprise allow rental transactions on a debit card in select locations across the globe.
While Pakistan is yet to grasp on this foreign concept, introducing car rental services on debit cards can flourish the local tourism sector and ensure secure and cash free services to travellers.
