Winter may be in full swing. But people everywhere are gearing up for all sorts of spring time activities. Spring is a season which is ripe for festive goings-on. Some of these events are even more special with the rental of some luxury wheels, preferably a limousine. Proms, weddings, and even the occasional bachelor/bachelorette party is a prime reason to hire the services of a luxury car and driver. But there are some definite things to know before handing over the cash for a rental.
TYPES OF VEHICLES
The first thing to think about is the purpose of the limo. How many people will you need to accommodate? Is it just an outing for two or three guests? Or will you be celebrating a full blow-out affair with 8-10 people? In either case, the types of limousines available for rental are seemingly infinite.
A simple luxury Sedan(most often a Lincoln Town Car) will hold about 3-4 passengers. This is not really a limousine per se, but more of an upscale corporate vehicle. These cars are mostly used for airport to hotel transportation. They are a huge hit with business persons and with the “casually affluent” who happen to enjoy being chauffeured to important affairs. Though not really considered full-fledged “limos”, these cars do boast drop down DVD players and flat screen TVs.
For funkier excursions, why not rent an “Excursion”? The Ford Excursion “limo” is actually a superior version of its typical family-friendly model. These huge SUVs comfortably seat about 5 people and feature all leather interior (often two-toned), flat screen TV with DVD, VCR, fiber optic neon lighting, and a mini-bar. Unlike the Town Car, this vehicle is more fine tuned for a limousine feel, by offering a privacy divider which separates the passengers from the chauffeur.
The Lincoln Stretch Limo is one of the most popular options in limousine rental. Because they seat 10 people, it’s this version that is most often reserved for bachelor and bachelorette parties. This classic vehicle will have all the luxuries associated with limo riding: Full Bar set-up, flat screen TVs and DVD player, fiber optic lighting, and even mirrored stargazer ceilings. These limousines often have incredibly tempting décor options, which makes for a more than entertaining evening out.
If you’re REALLY trying to make an impression, either on a date or on YOURSELF, then you’ll splurge on a stretch Hummer H2 Limo. These stately beasts on the road house 16 passengers. In this limo you’ll have the opportunity to watch not one but TWO flat screen TVs with surround sound. Plus, they are equipped with Sony Playstations, a DVD player, and four ice chests. For a truly otherworldly experience, enjoy the H2’s laser lights and smoke machine.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
This is where things get a little tricky. Renting limousines has always been a fairly expensive way to celebrate. However, depending upon the activities planned and the number of persons involved, renting a hired car can also be a lifesaver. For evenings in which no one wants to be the designated driver, splitting the cost of a limousine four ways isn’t always a bad idea.
The average luxury sedan, depending upon the style, make, and features will cost approximately $50-70 per hour on average. This isn’t very expensive for single Prom couples going to and from dinner. Stretch limousines like the Lincoln stretch will cost up to $150 or more. Luxury SUVs tend to cost a bit less, but at $90 an hour they are still a bit pricey for those seeking an understated kind of evening. And if you’re planning on going all out for your entire bridal or groomsmen party, you’d be better off renting either a party bus or a stretch luxury SUV anywhere from $190 – $250 per hour.
There are some things to consider when renting a limousine. Most of the time there is an hourly minimum involved with these vehicles. Prom season, being the most competitive time for limousine companies dictates a minimum hourly rental of at least 5 hours or more, depending upon the demand in the area. Know that your limousine rates include any time the car is unoccupied. This means that the “meter” is officially running, even while you’re enjoying cocktails and appetizers at the restaurant.
You should also beware of charges which may seem hidden, like gratuities for the driver, extra pick-up fees, or even transportation or gas surcharges. Gratuities usually are anywhere from 15-20%, and are considered a standard billing addition. There may also be extra fees associated with damage or “excessive” cleaning. So make sure that you read your reservation paperwork carefully, and ask as many questions as you need to.
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER
Anyone who has watched one or more 30-minute court TV shows has been witness to the results of poor planning and budgeting where it regards limousine rentals. There are a few things to consider when renting a luxury vehicle.
First and foremost after settling on a vehicle, you would do well to inspect it thoroughly before renting. There have been many disagreements between limo service and customer due to a difference in the product/service offered, and the product/service desired. Therefore, if possible take a look at the car you will be renting beforehand to make sure that it is in the type of condition you’ll expect on your special night. In the event that you’re unable to make a physical inspection in person, most companies will email you pictures of the exterior and interior of the car you’re renting.
Be sure that the company you choose has licensed drivers. If possible, make sure that all drivers have been background checked. Ask the company about the provisions it makes for passengers in the event of a collision or some other accident. Most of all, make sure that you get a signed contract outlining the exact details of the service, and the type vehicle you’ve requested.
Renting a luxury car not only takes the pressure off of designated drivers, it can also make a special occasional that much more exciting. Some people get carried away with the idea of being chauffeured, and forget about dotting all the I’s and crossing all the T’s. It’s imperative that you make sure what you’re getting into, so that you are not charged with extra fees that you were not aware of. Also, it’s a good practice to establish a good repoire with your limo driver. Make sure that you are courteous of the driver, and careful with the vehicle—or you may find your special event turning into the nightmare of the year.
