car & Bikes hire in edinburgh

Regulations vary from company to company, however, in all cases, drivers will require a valid driving licence to hire a car in the UK. In most cases, this can be a national driving licence, although an International Driving Permit may be preferred if the licence is not in English. Separate proof of address is often required. A credit card is also essential. It is important for visitors to check what level of insurance is included in the price of car hire. In general, drivers have to be over 23 to hire a car.

And do watch the small print. Different companies have different rules and restrictions and there can be hidden costs, so beware. Watch out in particular for:

• Unlimited mileage/mileage restrictions, collision damage waiver, theft protection and tax.
• Exactly what and what is not covered by insurance
• Free miles
• Extra hire costs and age restrictions re larger and automatic vehicles
• Licence restrictions – in many cases drivers must have held a licence for over a year.
• Rules re international and overseas licences.
• Extra costs for e.g. extra drivers, child seats, meet and greet, pick up and drop offs at awkward times &c
• Availability at weekends particularly Sundays, and on local holidays.

A great resource is Scotland Car Hire. Simply go on to www.scotland-carhire.co.uk  and fill in the online enquiry form there with your requirements. They’ll do the rest. Many people want reassurances before booking, rather than simply book on line which is the norm.

BicycleHire
BikeTraxCycleHire, 11 Lochrin Place, Tollcross (tel: (0131) 228 6633; fax: (0131) 228 3686; e-mail: info@biketrax.co.uk; website: www.biketrax.co.uk), hires out a wide range of bicycles. The standard rate (including helmet and lock) is £12 for half a day and £16 per day – a £100 deposit and photo ID are also required.