Did you know that an average person in New York spends 107 hours per year looking for parking? It’s 85 hours in Los Angeles, 65 in Washington DC, and 17 in the whole US, according to Inrix. The numbers are scary: you could get so much done in this time. What if you don’t want to waste so much time? You can choose buses or bikes or scooters, of course. You can also rent a parking space. Learn why it is good and how to do it. 

Advantages of reserving a parking spot

As we said before, looking for parking takes lots of time, especially in busy cities. And time is money. It is often the primary reason why people reserve parking spots. You can also choose where to park. Because of this you won’t have to walk 20 minutes to your destination after parking. You can rent a parking spot closer.

Renting a parking space can also be safer. You can rent garages, not just spots in open space. Garages will protect your car from both accidental scratching and poor weather conditions.

Finally, it’s affordable and allows you to manage your budget better. If you try finding parking yourself every day, you might only find an expensive place. Also, if you are paying for parking often, the hourly fees can add up to a large amount. Renting a spot for long periods can often be more cost-effective. 

If you are a small business owner, you might also want to rent parking spaces for your employees. This way you can ensure that they always come on time: or at least that they cannot use the excuse of trouble finding parking when coming in late. It will also be very much appreciated by your employees and make them more loyal to your company.

Apps to rent a parking spot

There are many various parking apps. The choice often depends on your location because many apps only work in certain cities. We will overview a few of the apps and websites where you could reserve your parking spot.

SpotHero: there is both a website and an app where you can reserve parking spots. It is best if you are looking to park in a garage since there are lots of spots in garages offered. You can reserve parking spaces for 50% of the drive-up rate.

ParkMe is also focused on garages and lots, but you can find on-street parking spots too. It boasts of having 240,000 locations in 16,000 cities: the database is one of the largest. You can rent a parking space up to 2 weeks in advance.

Parker is also worth checking out if you want to park on-street. However, it does not allow you to pay for the spot. It only shows the likelihood of being able to park there.

ParkWhiz both shows you locations of the parking spots and allows you to reserve and pre-pay for those spots. You can also compare the prices. They also promise to help save more than the others: 60% of the drive-up rate. ParkWhiz also owns BestParking, which lets you find parking spaces in many cities and airports in lots in garages. However, you cannot reserve a parking spot with this app.

XRental is also planning to offer parking spots for rent soon. You will be able to rent from owners: we will provide reliability and safety. 

Tips when looking for parking

If you are an inexperienced driver, choose a larger parking space. It will be easier to park, and the probability of scratching other cars is way lower. The likelihood of someone scratching your car is also lower. Also, people usually want to park as close to the entrance of the building they need to reach. However, your car can get scratched easier this way because many people and vehicles pass by. Finally, if you are looking to save, rent for longer periods instead of shorter ones. 

Perhaps you own a parking space yourself? Check out our article on renting out parking spaces.

Are you interested in the process of renting a private jet? It may seem daunting for those who have never done it. Whether you seriously plan to rent a private jet or are just interested in the process, read on to learn more. We will talk about the advantages of private jets and various ways to rent a private jet.

Why do people rent private jets?

There is more than one reason why people dream about purchasing or renting a private jet. Many people want or need to travel a lot, and the most common way of traveling today is by plane. Of course, most fly with a commercial plane. While they’re affordable, they have many disadvantages. You have to arrive way too early, pass all those lines and crowds, and sit with a bunch of other people. It’s also not as safe. Private jets are more appealing because of:

Saving time. Time is one of the main reasons why people prefer private jets to commercial planes. First, you don’t have to spend a heap of time in lines and getting through security: it takes about 15 minutes to board a private jet. Secondly, commercial airlines only use 500 airports in the US, while private jets can access 5,000. It means that you can access much more places by private jet and get to them quicker.

Safety. Being safe is especially important during the current COVID-19 situation. There are way fewer people and touchpoints when you board a private jet. The boarding place is not in the same airport where people board commercial planes. So, the risk of catching something is much lower.

Comfort. Of course, this is not the only reason people choose private jets but an important one nonetheless. Flying by private jet is a luxurious experience. There are no limits on bringing liquids and pets onboard. You have comfortable chairs, leg space, lavatories, showers, cocktail bars, and private suites in large jets. 

Productivity. According to a survey by National Business Aviation Association, work productivity in private jets was very high. So, you can not only travel comfortably but also get work done. 

Is renting a private jet with an operator better than with a broker?

There is more than one way you can rent a private jet. The first thing to choose is whether you want to rent from a broker company or the jet operators themselves. Private jet operators are the companies that own the planes and fly the clients. Broker companies, on the other hand, organize everything for you. They analyze various offers by different companies and choose the best ones for you. They also include all the fees and taxes, so you do not have to calculate them separately. 

Booking from the operators is often cheaper. However, you are limited to choose from the planes that they have. You can also only get the price quote from them. Also, you can only access planes from a particular city, or you have to pay more for the private jet to get to your city. Of course, you can contact several, but it can become difficult not to get confused. Sometimes, it might be just as cheap to book through a broker company because they get a discount when booking. A good broker also prepares a backup plan, so that you do not lose your money if something goes wrong with the booked plane.

The process of chartering a plane is similar to booking a commercial flight. You go on the website of the jet operator or broker. Then, you choose the type of private jet, choose a date. If you want to learn more about how much it costs to rent a private plane and the types of jets, we overviewed it in more detail here.

Other ways to travel on a private jet

Jet membership cards. If you are planning to fly private regularly, you may want to consider acquiring a jet card. You pay a substantial amount upfront and then use it for your flights. Some companies also offer capped fixed rates which means that you might pay less than you would when booking a flight without a card. Companies also guarantee availability for the card owners: you will get your flight when you want it. For example, jets.com offers to choose the jet type and then the number of hours, such as 25: you then use those hours up when you fly with the jet.

You can also book a seat on the private jet instead of chartering it whole. This way is not as fancy as you share the plane with strangers, but there will only be a few of them. And you will have all the comforts, such as plenty of leg space, comfortable seats, etc. The ticket might not cost more than a first-class ticket on the commercial planes, but the journey will be way more comfortable.

It is also possible to get seats on a shared charter when someone charters a private jet and sells empty seats. While it’s more expensive than booking by the seat, shared charter costs less than chartering the whole plane. But you have to share it with strangers, of course.

Finally, you might be able to catch an empty leg flight, which is when the plane flies empty to pick up some client in another city. Such flights are often with a discount from 50 to 75%. But it is not as easy to learn about such flights. They are also very short-notice and limiting, as you have to go from a specific city to another city. And everything depends on the original client’s needs, so you may be in a bit of a pinch if they suddenly cancel.

Final things to remember before a private flight

You do not have to arrive hours before your flight, of course. Fifteen minutes should be enough. If you chartered the private jet and are running late, be sure to inform the provider.

Have a driver’s license as ID. If you are traveling internationally, also have a passport, or a visa, if you must.

Otherwise, there are definitely fewer worries compared to flying commercially. You can bring as much luggage as you want. Unless you are traveling with many other people: the luggage may cramp the plane then. There are also no assigned seats but let the host choose first.

We hope you enjoyed this article about renting a private jet. Perhaps you are also interested in yachts? Check out our article on how to rent a yacht affordably.

Would you like to rent a private jet? It is not just an unimaginable luxury. For some people, it is economically better because of how much time it saves compared to flying commercially. Of course, they cost a considerable amount, just like it costs to charter a yacht. But you can still charter a private jet quite affordably. Read on to learn more.

Why is it so expensive to rent a private jet?

There are several reasons. First, jets are expensive to make, just like usual planes. Their maintenance is also very costly, such as a million dollars a year for a large jet. Travelers also have to cover the costs of fuel, crew, landing fees, etc. Commercial airlines fly a large number of people almost constantly, so the cost divides among a large number of passengers. When you want to fly private, you will share the flight with just a few people (or none, if you want to fly alone), so the price is much higher per person. 

So why do people choose them? There are two main reasons: saving time and luxury. If you fly with commercial airlines, you have to wait an hour and a half in the airport, get through security lines, constantly be in crowds and then sit among a mass of other people. This advantage is especially relevant for CEOs because an hour of their time is worth several hundred dollars and more. For example, Walmart has 20 private jets in Bentonville. With a private jet, an executive could visit three stores half a continent away in one day and come back to Bentonville. If they were to fly commercially, it would take at least three days. Check out the video below if you are interested in the economics of private jets:

Flying private is very luxurious too. The seats are much more comfortable, there is more leg space, there might even be a shower on the jet! You can bring your pet, enjoy dinner almost like at a restaurant: the food is usually very high quality. Private jets are also much safer during the pandemic because you do not board with a mass of other people and do not sit together with strangers. 

Types of private jet charters

Before we answer how much it costs to rent a private jet, we must analyze what influences the cost of private jet charters. Type of plane is one of the essential factors: the bigger, the costlier. But we will get to that later. What also matters is the type of charter, of which there are two.

First, you can book directly from the company or use a broker company. When you book directly from the company, you pay hourly for all the time the airplane flies. It is known as the retail rate. While the price is lower than the live leg rate, you will also have to pay for all the taxes and fees. They include landing fees ($150 to 500), ramp and handling fees ($100 to 500), US segment fees ($4.30 per passenger), and federal excise tax (7.5%). There can also be de-icing fees, hangar rental, etc.

Another way is to use a broker company. Then you will pay only for the time you are on the plane: this is called a live leg rate. The broker company includes all the taxes in the amount. Of course, the cost is usually more than double. But this way is a lot simpler as all the fees are built-in. 

If you want to learn more about the process of renting a private jet and various ways to rent one, click here.

Types of jets you can rent

Now that you know more about private jet charters, let’s look at the most important factor: jet size. 

Light jets. They are the smallest available jets and the most affordable to charter. They can be classified into very light jets, small light jets, and super light jets. Very light jets might only fit four people, up to six, and are best for short distances. Small light jets usually seat 6-8 people and are better for long distances. Super light jets also fit 6-8 people but have enhanced size and comfort. The retail price to rent a light jet ranges from $2,000 to 4,000 an hour. The live leg rate is about $6,000 an hour.

Midsize jets. There can be midsize cabin jets and super-midsize cabin jets. These jets fit up to 9 people, and super-midsize jets can fit up to 10 or 12 people. You can usually fully stand in these jets, go to a lavatory, and more. They can also cover great distances, flying up to 7 hours, but can still access smaller airports. The hourly retail rate for midsize jets is from $3,500 to 5,000, while the live leg rate is about $8,000. Regarding super-midsize jets, the retail rate is from $4,500 to 6,000, and the live leg rate is about $9,000. 

Heavy jets. These luxurious private jets can fit 12-19 people at maximum, depending on the model. They are even more comfortable, having pull-out tabletops, lavatories, Wi-Fi, divans, etc. There are also ultra-long-range heavy jets to have even more comfort and cover more distances. The retail rate for heavy jets starts from $5,000 an hour and can go up to $12,000.

Executive airliners or bizliners. Bizliners are the crème de la crème of private jets, a pinnacle of luxury jet travel. These jets can seat more than 20 people. Often, they are commercial planes converted into private jets. They can have private suites with closing doors, showers, cocktail bars, and more. In short, they are flying luxury apartments. Of course, they cost more too: the cheapest bizliners retail prices might start at $20,000 per hour but can go up to $70,000. 

Tips for more affordable private jet rentals

You need quite a bit of money to rent a private jet, but that does not mean you cannot save and find more affordable deals. To spend less money on charters, consider this:

Take friends with you and split the cost. For example, if you charter a large private jet that costs $4,000 per hour and ten people board, it will cost only $400 per person per hour. In some cases, if you find four or so friends to share the flight with, it can cost less than flying with commercial airlines. Most importantly, you will experience all the benefits!

Negotiate with the operator for better deals. For example, if you want to fly to Hawaii and stay there for a week, the flight operator might want to fly back so they can charter the plane to other people. So the costs for you double. But you might be able to negotiate with the operator to stay in Hawaii for a week. Of course, you will have to pay for the crew, but it would be less expensive.

You can also consider empty legs flights: they usually have a 50% discount on the retail price. An empty leg is a flight when a private jet flies empty from one city to another because a customer booked a flight between certain cities. Such flights are, of course, very limiting: they are short-notice and very inflexible as you have to adapt to the original customer’s needs and wants. But you will pay much less than you usually would. 

Finally, you can buy just one seat on a private jet and share it with other people during the trip. It is known as booking by the seat. It can be a good choice if you want to save but cannot find enough friends to share a flight with and split the cost. Booking by the seat might cost as little as $100 for a short flight.

We hope this article about renting a private jet was helpful and you learned something new. Perhaps you are also interested in limo services? Check out our article on the best occasions for a limo service.

Is a special occasion coming up? Or maybe you yearn for a bit of luxury. Why don’t you rent a limousine? Limo services are great for numerous reasons, from going to your wedding to meeting a client in the airport. But do you know which limousine to rent? There are different limo types, each one with its unique features. Read on to learn more.

Regular and stretch limousines

While most people imagine limousines as very long cars, they are not necessarily so long. A limousine is not one type of car like a yacht is not one type of boat. Rather, it describes luxury cars, usually driven by chauffeurs and have a glass partition separating them from the passengers. They are also very comfortable, having leather seats, bottled water, and possibly more. 

So, limousines can be regular-sized. People use them for many purposes, such as picking up clients, traveling to meetings in style, or even going on dates! Such limos might fit only up to 4 people. They are also cheaper, of course. One of the most popular and most affordable limo models is the sedan: they are great for picking up an important client and arriving somewhere stylishly. A larger SUV limousine is perfect for a family vacation: it usually has a minibar and multimedia, providing entertainment. There is also a Lincoln limousine, longer than your average car, but not yet a stretch limo. Lincoln limos are luxurious with many amenities and comforts, stylish, and safe.

Stretch limousines. Their image usually comes to people’s minds when someone says ‘limousine’ They are extended versions of regular limousines. Usually, a stretch limousine is about 30 feet long, referred to as a standard stretch limo. A classic stretch limo is a stretched sedan, but there can also be stretch SUV limousines. There are also super stretch limos. The longest limousine in the world is 100 feet long limo and has a pool and landing for a helicopter.

Now, what about some more limo types?

Classifying limos to just regular ones and stretch limousines is very broad. There are various limo designs which include:

Eco-friendly limos. The larger the vehicle, the larger the emissions. What if you want some luxury but also help the earth? You can choose eco-friendly limos, which have partially electric engines. 

Convertible limos. Such limos look even more stylish than the other ones. Provided the weather is good! Of course, you can always put the top back if you get tired of wind blowing by or people turning heads and looking at you.

Hummer limos. Besides the classic sleek limos, hummer limousines are one of the most popular. They are larger, fit more people inside, and have a unique feeling. They are popular among men, especially for such occasions as the bachelor’s party. 

Vintage limos. Do you like old-school designs? Then vintage limo might be the right limousine for you. There can be both regular-sized and stretch vintage limos. They are great for various occasions, from parties to weddings.

Party limos or party buses. This unique vehicle may look like a bus from the outside, but it is definitely a limo on the inside! They can have everything you might want for a party: comfy sofas, minibars, smoke machines, disco floors, and more! 

To conclude, there are many limo types, and each one has different features. Renting a limo is great for many occasions: learn about them!

Renting a bike has many advantages. There is no hassle of bringing your own, you can explore nature, spend time outside and exercise. But there are so many rental bikes on offer. How do you find the best one for you? This guide will discuss how to rent a bike and what to consider to have a great experience. 

Where to rent a bike?

There are various ways to rent a bike. If you live in a big city, it’s even more of a truth. There are hundreds of bike rental options. Their types include:

Bike-sharing. It is becoming popular among commuters, which is not surprising. It lets commuters avoid the buses, live greener, exercise, spend more time in the fresh air, and more. However, bike-sharing is best for short trips within the city. The bikes are all the same, and they are not very comfortable, especially because you cannot choose the size.

Peer-to-peer rentals. People that own bikes do not necessarily use them all the time. So they might put up those bikes for rent. They usually rent out bikes for at least half a day. There are many peer-to-peer bike renting apps and websites, from specialized ones to Craigslist. 

Bike rental shops. Shops also rent out bikes for lengthier periods, such as a day. You can choose any type, from cruisers and comfort bikes to mountain and gravel bikes. They also have different sizes and will help you choose the best one. 

Whether you will rent from a peer-to-peer site or in a bike rental shop, you need to find the best bike for you. So, what should you consider?

Where are you planning to ride your bike?

It is probably the most crucial question of all because it determines the type of bike you need. You need to consider the road: is it going to be pavement or dirt trails? Are you planning a long trip that needs to be comfortable? Everything matters. 

We already wrote a guide to different bike types. To put it briefly:

  • If you want speed and to cover long distances on smooth surfaces, choose a road bike.
  • Adventurous tour on rough terrains? Choose a mountain bike.
  • The route includes distances both on-road and off-road? Choose a gravel bike or a sport hybrid.
  • If you want to explore the city leisurely, a cruiser or comfort hybrid is best. 
  • Planning a long trip on pavement and light trails? You might want a touring bike. 
  • Finally, if you do not want to tire out and want some assistance, choose an electric bike.

The right bike size

Another important thing is choosing the right bike size. No matter how comfortable the bike, it will feel wrong if you choose the wrong size. The wrong size can also be dangerous because it will be harder to control the bike. 

Sit on the bike and try to decide whether it feels right. Pay the most attention to your reach from the seat to the handles. The right size is always important, but the longer your trip, the more it matters. 

Most bikes have such sizes as XS, S, M, L, and so on. They can also be marked in cm: 43, 47, 50, 54, and so on. Briefly, if you are from 5’2 to 5’6 feet, you need an S or a 50 cm bike; if you are from 5’7 to 5’11, you need an M or 54 cm; and if you are from 6 to 6’3, you need an L or a 58 cm bike. Check out this bike size chart to understand bike sizes better.

Some bike accessories?

Accessories cost extra, of course, but they can increase your comfort for a low price a lot. They can even be a necessity. For example, if you are traveling with your family, you might need a trailer for children or a baby seat. If you are planning to shop, a rack on the bike would be nice. 

We also recommend having a bike helmet. Although it’s not required, accidents happen, and a helmet decreases the risk of bad injuries a lot.

Basics of riding a bike safely

Keeping safe will not decrease your enjoyment of the trip. It might even increase it because other travelers will also be happy, and the risk of accidents will be lower. It is crucial to check bike rules in the area where you are planning to rent your bike.

This is not an extensive guide to bike laws, but here are a few rules to remember.

  • When on the streets, ride by the side so that cars can overtake you. But do not be too close to the side because the road can be too uneven there. 
  • When in a group, ride in a single file on busy and narrow roads. Otherwise, two bikes can ride side by side
  • When taking turns, be aware of other traffic. Do not forget to signal the turns!
  • Follow the rules like other vehicles. That means you cannot drive intoxicated, ignore traffic lights, etc.

Planning to ride in Missouri? Check out our article on Missouri bike laws.

Perhaps you are planning to rent a bike in Hawaii? Learn everything you need to know!

Are you planning to rent an electric scooter soon? Good decision! Electric scooters are easy to use, eco-friendly, and quite convenient. They are a great alternative to commuting by bus or by car. But how do you rent one? What should you know before renting? We will answer these questions to calm your worries.

How to rent an electric scooter

Usually, you only need a driver’s license and a valid credit card to rent. You might also have to be 18 years old to rent a scooter. Also, in most states, you must be 16 to drive scooters. But you usually do not need a license to ride a scooter.

There is more than one way to rent a scooter. Many people use apps, such as Bird or Lime. You have to add your credit card, find a scooter on the map, check its battery, go to the scooter. You might have to start the ride in the app or take a picture of the QR code. To begin riding the scooter, step on it, kick the ground and push the throttle button. Then, enjoy your ride!

What to do before riding away on your rental scooter

Just like with any other transportation device, scooter accidents happen. To minimize the risk, here are some things you should do before riding your rental scooter:

Check the tires. They must be in good condition to ride safely. Rental companies usually check and maintain their scooters, but it never hurts to be sure.

Check the brakes. Brakes must always function well: otherwise, you can drive into someone or something, unable to stop on time. Once again, a malfunction is not likely, but you should still try them out. It’s good to try out the scooter a bit, so you know how to ride it.

Finally, take photos of the electric scooter you rent before you leave so that you do not get blamed for damages you did not cause. Make sure you can also see the date of taking the photo to prove it was just when you rented it out. 

How to keep yourself safe on electric scooter

Scooter laws are not very clear yet, and riders often disobey them, anyway. They are also quite fast, not so easily seen, and very open. This is how they sometimes create hazards for themselves, other drivers, and pedestrians. Let’s talk about minimizing risks to yourself first. Besides well-functioning tires and brakes, some gear can also be helpful.

Wear a helmet. Although only a few states require wearing helmets when riding scooters or might only require helmets for riders under 18, we always recommend wearing one. Helmets protect your head and your brain, and we can’t function without them, can we? With a helmet, you decrease your risk of a bad head injury in case of an accident.

Wear gloves. When people fall from their scooters, they usually hit the pavement with their palms. Although it would hardly be a fatal injury, scraped palms can be both painful and uncomfortable. Gloves will minimize the risk of hurting hands. A jacket, long pants, and shoes with closed toes also decrease the risk of hurting yourself. 

Riding safely and not injuring others 

Think about riding a bike. Similar safety rules apply to riding electric scooters. Do not ride on sidewalks: this is illegal in most states. Most states allow riding electric scooters on the streets, although some states do not allow them on highways and expressways. The best places to ride scooters are bike lanes. The speed limit might be from 15 to 30mph. Learn about California scooter laws here and about other states laws here.

Do not ride drunk. You increase the chance of injuring not only yourself but also others. You might also get a fine.

Do not take your friends on one scooter. It might seem like fun, but scooters are only designed for one person. Riding with more makes it harder to operate and thus increases the likelihood of an accident.

Do not speed too much. Electric scooters usually have several speed modes: begin with the first one. You can always speed up when you feel comfortable with the scooter. Many accidents occur because someone speeds too much and cannot notice a hazard or stop the scooter in time.

Finally, be careful. Do not get distracted and observe your surroundings. Try to avoid areas with lots of traffic. Keep both hands on the handles unless indicating a turn. And when you finish the ride, park your scooter nicely, so no one trips over it! Bike racks are a good place for parking scooters.

Perhaps you are interested in other types of scooters? Check out our article on it!

A good office is crucial for a successful business. Your employees will spend a lot of time there, and they should feel productive. Your clients will visit you in your office and might judge you on its design. But there is so much needed for a good office, from computers to office chairs to printers and scanners. Why don’t you rent office equipment instead of owning it? There is more than one reason why it might be a better choice.

Renting office equipment is cost-effective

Are you a startup? In that case, you might have both little money and not very detailed plans for the future. Perhaps you will grow so fast that the equipment you buy today will become too obsolete for you after two years. Also, buying equipment has much steeper upfront costs in comparison with renting. Fixed smaller monthly payments allow managing budget and cash flow better.

It also allows you to expand the team. You need people for your business to grow, and people need tools to grow the business. Renting instead of buying saves your money.

And not only startups rent equipment: large companies do too. The main reason is that it allows for more flexibility.

Flexibility

Do you think you will move your office to another place? Maybe your company often switches devices between departments? Perhaps you believe that you will experience changes? It is once again very relevant for startups because their needs might change and require new equipment after some time. When you rent equipment, you must not stick with it. You can change or upgrade it after the rental period ends very.

And upgrading the equipment can be very much needed these days when technology is moving at a formidable pace. Purchasing new equipment often so that it does not become obsolete can become very costly. But you can simply stop renting outdated equipment and move on to upgraded versions.

Rental office equipment is easy to maintain

Equipment malfunctions might be among some of the least desirable things. Unexpected costs arise, productivity falls. As an owner, you have to deal with it yourself. Your workers are not likely to be experts at fixing the equipment, so you might need to hire someone. On the other hand, when you rent the equipment, the rental company will usually take care of it for you.

Devices also depreciate. You also avoid it when you rent instead of buying because depreciation will not be considered your responsibility.

Office

Try before you buy

Are you thinking of investing in certain equipment for your office? What if it turns not to work as well as you imagine? It would be awesome to try it out before purchasing in that case. Well, you can rent it out for a while. Buy it if you like it afterward! You can also consider leasing equipment, which means that you will pay monthly fees and buy out at the end of the leasing period.

Of course, renting also has some disadvantages. You usually have to pay a deposit. If you rent equipment for a long time, costs might accumulate. You must pay monthly and manage rental contracts. For established businesses with detailed plans and planning few changes, owning might be better. But you can always buy equipment if you want! Often, renting is a good, commitment-free start. If you decided to rent, check out rental office equipment on XRental. We provide high-quality rental services for affordable prices.

Renting a car is great, whether you are on business trips or vacations. It’s cheaper than taxis and more comfortable than shuttle buses. But you have to find the right one so you can travel comfortably. Read to learn how to rent a car so that your trip is as smooth as possible.

Size of the car you rent

How many will be traveling, and do you have lots of luggage? If there are only three people, compact cars should do. If there are more, consider a mid-size or full-size car. You can even choose passenger vans for a large group! Some vehicles also have more luggage space than others, so take that into account too.

What about all the features?

Do you need a GPS? A child seat? Roof racks? They might all cost extra but if you need them for the trip to be comfortable, get them. Of course, you might do without them if your trip is short. But if you are planning to travel for a long time, you need to consider your comfort.

If you are traveling outside the US, like in Europe, you might even have to choose between a manual and automatic transmission. Automatic transmissions are more comfortable but also often cost more.

In what kind of place will you travel?

Are you planning to drive in a big, crowded city? Then it would be better to rent a small car to easily make maneuvers on crowded roads. But perhaps you are going off to the countryside where the roads are not so good? Consider a 4×4 vehicle. However, be careful: check with the rental company that driving on unpaved roads is okay.

If you travel to a busy city, parking might become a problem. Consider renting a parking space.

And where do you want to drop off the car?

Are you planning to make a round trip? In this case, it might be easier and cheaper to get rentals since you picking up and returning the car in the same location is quite comfortable for the company. But maybe you want to get to a particular place and leave the car there? Look for a company that allows you to do that. Also, be careful about picking up the car at the airport: since they are popular locations, the prices are often much higher.

Insurance of the car you rent and terms

Make sure there is insurance. Usually, rental companies offer insurance, which costs, of course, although not very much. If your own insurance would cover you when you are driving a rental car, you might be able to opt out of the insurance the company offers, paying less. Just do your research to be sure you do not end up with unexpected expenses! Also, when signing the rental contract, read the terms carefully. Finally, check for any damages on the car before driving off, so you do not get blamed for something you did not do later. It’s a good idea to take photos with a date as proof.

Finally, the price

Sometimes this factor will influence all the others, from size to drop-off location. You definitely need to consider your budget. Smaller, less expensive cars will obviously cost less. If you are younger than 25, a rental car will also likely cost more. So will additional drivers (although sometimes there are exceptions for spouses and domestic partners). Finally, better fill up the tank yourself, so you do not have to pay three times the amount for the company to do it.

Now that you know what to consider when choosing a rental car, check out the cars on XRental. We offer high-quality services at affordable prices for you to have the best experiences possible!

Limousines are luxury cars, great for celebrating special occasions. You might have already thought about renting one someday. And then you must have come to a crucial question: how much does it cost to rent a limo? Well, you are in luck, because we will answer this question today.

How much does it cost to rent a limo on average?

The average hourly price for a limo is $75 to 150 in the US. Of course, you might be able to find limos cheaper or more expensive. For an entire night, you can spend from $430 to 950 on your limo. A lot depends on the limo type, location, time, and duration of the rent.

Of course, the biggest factor is the limo type. Usually, the bigger and fancier the limo, the more expensive it is. Check out the chart for different types, number of passengers and the prices:

The importance of time when you rent a limo

Besides the types, time influences the price a lot. Some days and times of the day are way more expensive than others because they are busier. The cheapest time to rent a limo is in the afternoon on workdays. The hourly rates rise after 5 PM. Friday and Saturday nights are busy with parties; Saturday days are popular for weddings. Expect to pay more on those days.

Also, the longer the amount you want the limo for, the more likely you are to get a discount. Many companies also rent out limousines for a minimum of three or four hours, not just one.

Limo rental prices for different occasions

Most people rent limousines for special occasions. However, that can influence the higher price. For instance, weddings and proms are some of the most popular occasions for limo services, and there is a high demand, so the price can also be higher.

Some packages include things and services to make the occasion even more special. For example, a prom package with a luxury sedan could include glassware, non-alcoholic drinks, and pick-up and drop-off in different locations. Such a package could cost around $400. Of course, the bigger the limo, the more expensive it gets.

Tips for the chauffeur

Tips or gratuity might or might not be included in the quote. Always check to be sure. People often ask how much you should tip if you rent a limo. We recommend tipping between 15-20% of the limo service rental price if you are happy with the chauffeur. If the trip is to or from the airport, you should also tip extra for each bag. The recommended amount is from $2-5 per bag.

It is important to tip your chauffeur. Usually, they work very hard to help you. Also, they often have minimal wages or even below minimum since employers expect them to earn a lot with tips.

Beware of different pricing models

Some companies offer hourly rates that include all the fees. Others may count various fees separately. Get acquainted with the pricing models of the companies before renting a limo. This way, you do not encounter any unexpected fees.

Another factor that can influence limo price is the location. Some locations, like New York, are way more expensive than others. Also, there might be extra fees. For example, if your group messes up the limousine by damaging inventory or puking, expect to pay for the cleanup. Even smoking inside the limo can incur a penalty!

You can also pay for a limo rental company to stock the minibar. If you decide to bring your drinks, check that it does not mean an extra fee!

Perhaps you want a luxury car but not necessarily a limousine? Consider renting a BRABUS or AMG!

Did you know that 2020 was named the year of RV travel? And their popularity does not plan to fall anytime soon. It is very much understandable since RVs are one of the safest ways to travel during a pandemic. It is also cheaper, flexible, and advantageous in many other ways. Perhaps you are also thinking about trying out RVs? Whether you plan to rent, buy or just want to learn more about RVs, you should know different RV types. Which we will cover in this article, so read on!

One of the two main RV types: motorhomes

Motorhomes or motorized RVs have an engine. That means that it is one vehicle you both drive and live in. You don’t have to bother with hitching and unhitching them. Such motorhomes have three classes: A, B, and C.

Class A RVs are the largest and the most comfortable of all RVs. They are from 24 to 45 ft in size and look similar to a bus. However, they are also the most expensive and the hardest to drive because of their size. You have to be an experienced driver, and still, you might not be able to access some narrow roads. But they are the best type for long journeys and if you want to live on the road or travel with your family.

Class A RVs can be either diesel or gas-powered. The diesel engine is usually on the back of the RV. They are known as diesel pushers (or pullers if it is on the front). They are a bit more powerful than gas RVs but also more expensive. Gas RVs have an engine at the front. They might be better for travelers who plan to stay long at locations. Read more here.

Class C motorhomes are in between Class A and Class B: a combination of both. The front looks like a van, but there is a box behind it, like Class A RVs. Most Class C RVs also have an overhead cab: it might be an extra bed or storage space. They are usually between 20 and 30 ft in length. While not as large as Class A RVs, they have plenty of space for showering, cooking, eating, lounging, etc. Maybe not for laundry.

Class B RVs are the smallest and most economical. They look like vans from the outside and are often called camper vans. They might be too small for two people to travel for a long time. Here, seats fold out into beds. While not as comfy, they are very fuel-efficient, easy to drive, and access most places. There can also be super Bs and super Cs. They are larger versions.

Many types of towable RVs

Often called just trailers, towable RV vehicles come in many types. All need to be towed by a vehicle, either with a bumper pull or a hatch. The trailer you need depends a lot on the vehicle with which you plan to tow.

Fifth-wheels. These are the largest towable RVs. You can only pull them with a truck. They have a distinctive front overhang which is often called a gooseneck. It hovers over the bed of the truck. Inside, there is often a bedroom or a living room area. Fifth wheels are 20-40 feet in length and can fit from 4 to 8 people. They have high ceilings and are pretty comfortable.

Travel trailers or pull-behinds have a great variety of types. They can be from 8 to 40 feet and fit from 2 to 8 people. Inside, there is usually a kitchen, a bedroom, a bathroom, and a living area. Many have expandable sections. You can tow travel trailers with trucks, SUVs, and crossovers.

Toy haulers or sport utility a type of RVs for transporting various kinds of cargo for camping adventures, including kayaks, snowmobiles, golf carts, etc. The back of the hauler flips back and becomes a ramp to load the cargo. You can also convert the space to a living room or bedroom. Toy haulers are from 18 to 40 ft and can fit from 4 to 8 people.

Pop-up trailers, also known as fold-out campers, kind of look like tents. They are great for people who are transitioning from camping to RVing. They have a base like a utility cargo trailer and a heavy-duty canvas top. Pop-up trailers are also some of the cheapest RVs, although they are not super luxurious: for instance, not all pop-up trailers have a bathroom. They are 8-20 ft and fit 2-8 people.

Finally, there are also teardrop trailers and truck campers. Teardrop trailers are unique because of their teardrop shape. They are affordable and easy to tow but very simple: often it’s just a bedroom on wheels. Truck campers sit in the bed of your truck. They have an overhand that expands over your vehicle. They are very compact, but you need to have a powerful truck to tow truck campers.

We hope you now know more about different RV types. We recommend renting an RV before you buy one. This way, you can decide whether a certain RV is right for you.

Have you decided to rent a moving truck to get your stuff to your new home? Great! If not, you can read our article about things to consider when you plan to rent a moving truck. But there is one more important decision you must make: choosing between moving truck sizes. You have to decide carefully because otherwise, it can cause more than one inconvenience. Choose a truck that is too small, and you might not be able to fit your stuff. Choose one too big and not only will you spend more, but it will also be harder to control it. So, how do you know the right size? We will help you decide.

Choosing the moving truck size by room number

The easiest and fastest way to choose the truck is to decide by room number. Companies often list their trucks this way, and most people seem to choose this way. Of course, you must not forget that these are just general estimates. If you think you have more furniture in your 2 BHK than an average person in 2 BHK, get a bigger truck than generally recommended. It can also apply if your furniture pieces are rather large. Also, think about the size. Is your studio apartment unusually large? Maybe it equals a 1 BHK apartment. Or perhaps your 1 BHK is so little that it is just like a studio apartment.

Choosing the truck size by cubic feet

Do you like measuring and calculating? Then measure all your stuff, and you will have accurate numbers of the size you need. Companies usually provide the volumes of their trucks on their websites. Usually, one fully furnished room needs 150-200 cubic feet, but this is only a general estimation.

Check out this calculator that allows you to mark all the stuff you are planning to move and then gives you the size of the truck you need.

Moving truck sizes

Usually, trucks are measured in length and volume. Generally, they are classified into small, medium, and large trucks. Check out a helpful chart here.

Small trucks might be just 7 ft or 13 ft long. They include cargo vans and pickup trucks. 7 ft trucks are good for moving from studio apartments or transporting goods in one room. Of course, if you are planning to throw away lots of stuff before moving or are moving close and can make two rounds, they are also good. 10-13 ft trucks are great for small 1 BHK apartments. They usually have 400-450 cubic feet of space. Small trucks are best when you move within the same city. The general estimate is that they can handle up to 5 furniture pieces and about 100 medium moving boxes.

Medium trucks are from 14 to 17 ft and have 650‑850 cubic feet of space. You can also move longer distances with them. They are great for 1-3 bedroom apartments and small 1-2 bedroom houses: you can transport up to 10 furniture pieces and up to 250 boxes. However, grand pianos will likely not fit.

Large trucks are usually 18-24 ft. They have 900-1400 cubic feet of space, and you can move up to 450 medium boxes and lots of furniture. Large trucks are great for large apartments, such as 3-4 bedroom ones. Also, houses, but not too big. You can also move long distances, even across the state. But if your residence is extra-large and has more than four bedrooms, there are also extra-large trucks. They start from 25 ft and have up to 1600 cubic feet of space.

In conclusion

Counting and measuring everything you will move is the surest way to choose between moving truck sizes. However, it is not necessary to do that. You can use calculators and make general estimates. Most people decide on moving trucks size based on charts and do not make a mistake. Just take into account any larger furniture or whether the size of your apartment is typical. Getting a truck too small might make you make two trips. Getting one that is too large will be more expensive. Larger trucks are more difficult to control, too.

If you live in a small apartment and are moving to a place nearby, you can also go by car or rent one. It will be easier to control it rather than a moving truck. Check out what to consider when you rent a car.

Moving is often problematic and annoying. It even ranks among the top stressful life events. There is lots to do, lots of worries and lots of possible costs. You will need to consider your needs to make good decisions and save yourself some trouble. One of the most important decisions is how to do it. Could you move by yourself? Should you rent a moving truck? Or even a moving company? We will cover all these aspects and everything you need to consider, so read on to learn.

Perhaps you don’t have to rent a moving truck?

The easiest way, of course, would be to move in your own car or with your friends and family. You could also rent a car. Ask yourself several questions. First, how much stuff do you have? If you lived in a small studio and own few things, you might not even need a truck. A car could be enough. You could drive yourself or have some help from friends and family. 

Another factor is time. If you have a lot of time, you can make several trips. Also, things are much easier if you move to a place close by rather than far away and have lots of friends ready to help. 

Can you drive a moving truck?

Another aspect to consider is driving. If you rent a truck instead of a moving company – which we do not recommend because it can become very costly – you will need to drive that truck. You do not have to be a professional truck driver to drive it: just be careful and keep some things in mind: read them below. However, you can also hire drivers for your rented truck which will still be cheaper than hiring a company. And you still have more control.

But you could drive yourself or a friend that is an experienced driver could. Remember to take some time with the truck, so you feel comfortable with it. Position the side mirrors so that you see the left and right lanes. Drive carefully and make sure you have a lot of space when making a turn. 

What size of truck do you need?

It is an important aspect that you need to consider in much detail. Read more about moving truck sizes here. Moving companies take care of this issue for you but must decide on the truck size yourself when you plan to rent one. The truck cannot be too small because you will not fit all your stuff: then you will waste money. And it cannot be too large because the truck will be difficult to drive, and you will also spend more. 

Truck sizes are measured in length and how much the truck can hold in cubic feet. Small trucks are up 12 feet and are good for moving out from a studio, one room, or BHK apartments. You could fit up to 5 furniture pieces and up to 50 moving boxes. They are also best for moving within the city. Medium trucks can move stuff farther away and take more: they are great for up to 10 pieces of furniture, up to 100 boxes, and for 2-3 BHK homes. Finally, large trucks can fit up to 15 furniture pieces and 150 boxes: these vehicles are enough for 3-5 BHK rehomes. You can also drive long distances.

Check out this truck size estimator, which allows you to choose the things you plan to transport and estimate the truck based on them. 

How much will it cost?

The average price of renting a moving truck is $1,550. Short trips with a small truck might cost as little as $130, and long ones with a big truck can cost more than $3,000. Read more here. Usually, it is still less than hiring a moving company.

Also, you can save if you keep some things in mind. Unfortunately, often it is not only the price of a rental truck. You might need such things as packaging blankets: some companies might ask extra for these things. There is also likely to be mileage after which you pay for every mile. Do not forget the gas: trucks use a lot of fuel. You will have to fill it up yourself throughout the journey and before you return the vehicle. 

Insurance is also very important. Check with your insurance company whether they will cover you when you drive a rental truck. Some rental companies might also offer it. If not, consider buying additional insurance. You are not likely to be in an accident, but they do happen, so be insured.

Finally, make sure the company takes note of all the damage on a truck, so you do not get blamed for it. Many companies will note this in rental paperwork. Also, make sure that everything works, such as lights and signals. And book the truck in advance!

Hopefully, you can now make an informed decision about whether you need a moving truck. Do you have some stories with moving trucks or tips? Share in the comments!

Do you like boating? It has many advantages, including resetting our brains and inspiring creativity. And there are so many beautiful places to explore! Have you ever thought whether you should buy a boat? Although it would be pretty cool, owning a boat comes with more than one disadvantage. It might be better to simply rent one. Read on to learn why.

1. A boat costs too much to buy

Some people say that a boat is a hole in the water you pour money into. And they are not far from the truth. Used motorboats cost at least $20,000 in the US. New ones cost from $60,000 to $70,000 on average. Look for brand names, and you could reach $500,000 and more. But you don’t have to buy boats to experience boating pleasures. You can rent. 

2. Boat maintenance is costly

Boat prices are nothing to sneeze at, at least for most people. But some say that buying the boat is actually the cheapest part. Others joke that BOAT stands for Bring Out Another Thousand. It is because boat maintenance costs are high. There are repairs, storage, insurance, and more. According to this article, boat insurance costs about 1.5% of its initial value per year. Storage can cost $1,000-2,000 per year. Add another $1,000 for yearly maintenance. Also, don’t forget the fuel: it can cost several thousand, depending on how much you use the boat. Finally, many people also get gear to make boating more fun, which costs another several thousand. By now, the cost might easily be double.

Also, boat maintenance takes up a lot of time. If you have a busy schedule, you may not want to buy a boat. Because, if you do buy one, you will have to dedicate time to taking care of it. Generally, you will want to spend some time maintaining it at least every second week.

3. The boat you buy depreciates

People say that the two happiest days in a boatowner’s life are when he buys and sells the boat. Unfortunately, boats depreciate, just like cars. Just, instead of mileage, the number of hours of engine use is counted. So the more you use your boat, the less valuable it becomes. 

4. Boats are only used 19 days yearly

According to statistics, motorboats are only used 29 days and sailboats 12 days a year, which is 19 days on average. But you have to store and maintain the boat 365 days a year. Is it worth it then? On the other hand, when you rent a boat, you will only pay for the hours you use the boat.

But even if you don’t use it, you will still worry about the boat. Will it survive the storm in the winter if it is in a harbor? Is everything still working properly? Will it not drift away? You will have to take care of it regularly. And you might feel guilty that you are using the boat too little. But if you rent boats, you will not think about these things.

5. You can try many different kinds when you rent

Unless you are super rich, you will most likely only buy one boat. And then you will most likely want to use this one boat a lot. But isn’t it a bit of a shame when there are so many different boat types? If you wish to fish, there are fishing boats. Choose sailboats if you want to sail yourself like in the old times. Whatever type you want whenever you want!

Boating is super fun, and renting a boat is a great way to enjoy the boating lifestyle. But it can seem daunting at first. If you want to rent out a boat for the first time, read our tips for the best boat rental experience