Car Rental Guide South Africa
Renting a car in South Africa should be simple, safe, and convenient. With over 30 years of experience, Kenings Car Hire offers expert advice and top-quality vehicles to ensure a stress-free rental experience. Follow these essential tips before you hit the road.
Key considerations for renting vehicles
Always plan ahead
Deciding on which vehicle to hire is not as straightforward as it may seem at first, there is quite a bit to think about if you are going to go with the choice that will keep all your bases covered. This choice will change depending on numerous factors, not limited to what you will use the vehicle for, the duration you will rent it for, fuel consumption, comfort, and a host of factors, including your budget.
So, to help you make the best possible choice, one that brings comfort, value, and practicality, here is a quick breakdown of what to think about in our vehicle hiring guide.
You don’t always get the luxury of planning when hiring a car, such is the case when your current vehicle needs repairs at short notice, or you need a temporary solution. But where car hire is part of a travel plan, you likely have weeks ahead of you to get everything in order.
Start considering your options early on and think about what you expect from the vehicle in terms of comfort, space, performance, or any optional extras. The more time you spend planning things out, the more likely you are to get exactly what you expect from your rental choice.
Travelling far? Check the one-way fees
A tip you won’t often find in typical vehicle hiring guides is to look out for one-way fees. This applies particularly to those renting vehicles, driving them to another location, and dropping them off at depots over there.
Different rental companies will charge different rates or this fee, some will opt to not charge it at all. So, this is something that needs to be compared when making your decision.
Check the car for damage and record it
Snag lists are everything in the world of rentals, no matter what asset is being leased. Naturally, you will want to keep an eye out for a rental vehicle that has as little damage as possible, you want something dependable, maybe even stylish.
But before driving off or signing anything, be thorough in your inspection of the vehicle’s condition, right down to the finest scratches and dings.
Take note of them and take time-stamped photos if you can.
After that, maintaining the condition of the vehicle while it is in your hands, is entirely your responsibility, while any pre-existing damage will not be.
Consider optional extras carefully
Optional extras can be an enticing part of any rental deal, and in many cases, they are practical points of added value for you… if you need them.
Think about which offered extras add to the experience and whether they are necessary for what you need the vehicle for in the first place.
Optional extras like the ones we offer at Kenings Car Van & Truck Hire may include mobile Wi-Fi, a river, GPS, child safety seats, a roof, bicycle racks, and more.
While all these extras have their place in certain instances, they might not always be a necessity, so be sure that the ones you pick (if any at all) match what you will be using the vehicle for.
FAQs for Kenings Rental Guide
We believe in a transparent and hassle-free rental experience. Here are answers to some common questions to help you book with confidence.
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What do I need to rent a car from Kenings?
To rent a car, you’ll need a valid driver’s licence, a valid identification document (ID), and a credit card in your name. International visitors should also present a valid passport and international driver’s licence.
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How old must I be to hire a vehicle?
Drivers must be 21 years or older and have held a valid driver’s licence for at least two years. If you’re under 21, a Young Driver Surcharge applies and is automatically added to your online quote.
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What payment options does Kenings accept?
We accept credit card payments, Instant EFT for rentals, travel agent vouchers, and corporate account order numbers for business clients. Payments are processed securely through our online portals.
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Can I return my rental car to a different location?
Yes. One-way rentals are available, but additional drop-off fees may apply depending on the distance and location. Confirm this with your Kenings branch when booking.
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Should I inspect the vehicle before leaving the branch?
Absolutely. Before signing your rental agreement, carefully check the car for any scratches, dents, or interior wear. Take time-stamped photos to ensure all pre-existing damage is recorded.
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What optional extras are available with my rental?
Kenings offers a range of optional extras such as GPS navigation, mobile Wi-Fi, child safety seats, bicycle racks, and roof racks. Choose only the extras that fit your travel needs.
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Do I need to refill the fuel tank before returning the car?
Yes, please return your vehicle with a full tank unless you’ve selected a pre-paid fuel option. Otherwise, a refuelling fee will be charged.
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Does Kenings offer insurance or cover for damages?
All rentals include standard insurance with an excess amount. Additional super cover options can reduce your liability in case of damage or theft.
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How do I contact Kenings for assistance during my rental?
If you need support, you can reach us at +27 (0)21 555 9555 or email booking@kenings.co.za. Our friendly team is available during operating hours for assistance nationwide.
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Can I hire a vehicle for a long-term period or on a corporate account?
Yes. Kenings provides long-term car hire and corporate rental accounts with flexible billing options, dedicated support, and tailored fleet solutions for business clients.
Get started with Kenings Car Van and Truck Hire
Age Limit Requirements
- The driver of the vehicle must be 21 or older and must have held a driver’s licence for at least two years. If you are younger than 21, a Young Drivers Surcharge will be applied. This will automatically be added to your quote when booking online.
What do I need?
- A valid credit card (we require a hold to cover the excess which will be released back to you)
- A valid driver’s licence
- A valid identification document (ID)
- Any additional drivers will also need to produce a valid driver’s licence at the time of collection.
International visitors
- International visitors must also produce a valid passport
- International driver’s licence
How do I pay?
- Credit Card (we have safe, secure online portals to allow easy payments)
- Instant EFT (for rental only)
- Travel Agent Voucher (for rental only)
- Corporate Account Holders – Valid Order number
