Tips for First-Time Self Drive Renters in Bangalore: Pro-Tips & Pitfalls

Renting a self-drive car for the first time gives you immense freedom, but following basic precautions ensures an enjoyable, stress-free experience.

1. Conduct a Thorough 360° Video Walkaround at Handover

• Before driving out of the hub, walk around the car with your smartphone camera.
• Record existing scratches, bumper scrapes, tyre tread, windshield chips, and interior cleanliness.
• Note the exact fuel gauge level and odometer reading with the handover representative.

2. Master the Fuel Policy (Same-to-Same)

• Next Miles follows a transparent same-to-same fuel policy. If you pick up the vehicle with a 50% tank, return it with 50%.
• Avoid returning the car on reserve or paying inflated refuelling fees by topping up at the nearest petrol bunk within 5 km of the hub.

3. Leverage Early Night Pickups

• Bangalore traffic during morning peak hours (7:30 AM to 10:30 AM) can easily cost you 90 minutes.
• Ask for Next Miles' early night handover policy. Pick up the vehicle at 9:00 PM the night before for zero extra charge, load your bags, and roll out effortlessly at 5:00 AM!

4. Know the Kilometre Allowance

• Remember Next Miles includes 350 km per day, with crystal-clear excess rates of ₹8/km for 5-seaters and ₹10/km for 7-seaters. Always calculate your round-trip distance in advance.