Haven’t driven in a year. Mistake to rent a car for long journey?

Hello,

I need to pick something up. It’s large and costs a lot of money. I don’t have anyone who can pick it up for me. It is located about 3 hours from me.

I was thinking about renting a car however I have not driven in 13 months. I am (was?) a competent driver passing first time with no minors. I was thinking of renting an automatic car and driving up to get it myself.

Do you think this is a bad idea? I personally think I would be okay and have located a route that avoids motorways and is only half an hour longer, but I want some outside opinions.

Thank you for your advice.

Reply 1

Davy611

Did you pass in an automatic? Is it possible to get a bit of practise with someone you trust prior to the journey? Aren't the delivery charges cheaper than renting a car?

Reply 2

PizzaSlice

Hi, thanks for your reply. I passed in a manual but have driven automatics and find them much easier, no worries about clutch control etc.

I can’t get it delivered as it’s too expensive and fragile. No car to practice on as my parents cars are leases from their work and I can’t be put on the insurance. Also none of my friends have cars I can practice with.

Original post by Davy611

Did you pass in an automatic? Is it possible to get a bit of practise with someone you trust prior to the journey? Aren't the delivery charges cheaper than renting a car?

Reply 3

Davy611

Ah. Well, if it's the only option then you're going to have to go for it. The only other thing I can think of is a single lesson refresher with a friendly driving instructor. I'm sure they're familiar with the type of situation you describe. Best of luck and be careful.

Reply 4

Josh279

As long as you are old enough to rent, sure why not?

Reply 5

Admit-One

Universities Forum Helper

Sounds like you don’t have any choice anyway. Just take it easy.

Reply 6

doodle_333

Take someone with you if you can as it's one less thing to think about if they do the directions. And take lots of breaks. You're new to driving again so even 1-1.5 hours is gonna feel long and tiring.

Reply 7

PizzaSlice

Original post by Josh279

As long as you are old enough to rent, sure why not?

Original post by Admit-One

Sounds like you don’t have any choice anyway. Just take it easy.

Original post by doodle_333

Thank you all for your advice. I came up with something of a solution. I’ve just joined a local car club and am able to rent a car right away for an hour or so to get a little practice before setting out on Monday.

Hopefully I’m not too rusty!