With so many things to take into account, renting a car can feel like a shot in the dark. What’s included and what’s worth paying extra for? Am I fully insured? Are the rules the same for all rental companies? Here are the answers to those questions so you can rent a car confidently.

What should I check before booking a rental car?

There are five things you absolutely need to know before you book your rental car. This is where most rental surprises come from, but they’re all knowable before you book:

The total rental price

The fuel and mileage policy

What insurance is included

The deposit, and what card you’ll need to pay it

The cancellation terms

KAYAK assembles data on each of these and weighs them up to create a car offer score for every rental.…