Renting car in France for first time -- Inclusive rate cheaper than basic?

If in doubt, call AutoEurope’s toll free number. I’ve found their customer service folks to be knowledgeable and helpful.

I have never used anything other than my CC insurance and have never needed it. That being said, my understanding is that if you use your card, you will have to pay for any repairs while in France, and then submit for reimbursement from Chase afterwards. Where as the car company's insurance covers it from the start. I have also heard that the CC company has very specific rules as to what paperwork and receipts you need for reimbursement. But again, I haven't had to personally deal with any of this. Best advice is to not have a claim...

I think the problem with inclusive rather than credit card is that there is a very large 1700 Euro deductible unless I really pay a lot for the zero deductible, whereas the credit card already has zero deductible, but won't apply at all if I accept any CDW from the rental company.

also watch Youtube videos about driving in France, there's a little thing called priorite a droit ...

I’ve had the misfortune of using CC coverage and 0 deductible. The problem I had with CC was gathering all the necessary info and then waiting for translations to be made. Your card is charged for any repairs and is refunded (not necessarily 100%) once all paperwork is finalized by the insurer. Once it took 4 months, another time 7. Insurers will cover damage repairs but not administrative costs and fees. In Italy, I always opt for 0 deductible. And that paid off twice. All I had to do was drop off the car and walk away. Fortunately none of those occurrences involved other vehicles - 1 of each was blameless, the others were my carelessness! 🙄

If you use your CC, carefully review the insurer’s terms of service. If in doubt, call them. I also reiterate speaking to a rep at AutoEurope.

@Philip i’ve looked into this, and I think that you’re right. As I am a warrior, I’m less concerned about a dent that I’d have to front a few hundred dollars for and then fight with the insurer to get back, but a bigger issue – that would not be fun. I haven’t booked the car yet because I haven’t figured out my drop off city but I might just pay for the full on insurance from the rental company.

We regularly book rental cars using Auto Europe … I have learned to take the No Deductible option. Yes, its more expensive but you never know when you're going to back into a pole in a parking lot!

Rental companies realized a few years ago that nickel and diming their customers was actually a GOOD business practice because it was found money. So nowadays they tend to blame you for every, little, thing they can find on the car when you return it. And heaven forbid they don't do the inspection while you're standing there!

It comes down to your comfort level and ability to deal with the stress and expense of possible charges. Just like all insurance!

if you chose not to take the insurance take a lot of photos before you leave the parking lot AND when you return it