6 Things to Check Before You Drive Off in a Rental Van

Renting a van for the first time can feel a little like borrowing a friend’s giant vehicle and praying you don’t breathe on it wrong. The good news is it’s not complicated, and you don’t need to be a car expert to feel confident. A quick, smart check before you drive off can save you time, stress, and surprise charges later. At Carl’s Van Rentals, we love helping first-time renters feel comfortable from the moment they grab the keys. Here’s what to check before you pull out of the lot.

1. Take a Walk Around

Before anything else, do a full lap around the van. Look for dents, scratches, scuffed bumpers, cracked lights, or windshield chips. Check the roofline if you can, since vans are tall and low tree branches happen. If you notice anything, point it out before you leave so it can be documented. This is the simplest way to protect yourself.

2. Confirm Tires, Signals, & Basic Lights

You don’t need a mechanic’s eye here. Just make sure the tires look properly inflated and not visibly damaged. Then test the headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. If you are towing a small trailer or using a hitch accessory, confirm everything looks secure and that the lighting connection works.

3. Adjust the Mirrors

Vans sit differently from sedans. Take a minute to adjust your seat, set the mirrors, and find your comfort zone. Make sure you can see out clearly and identify the van’s corners. If it has a backup camera or sensors, confirm they are working, and you know what the beeps mean.

4. Check Fuel Levels & Return Policies

Look at the fuel gauge before you leave and confirm what level you are expected to return it to. If the van has a specific fuel type requirement, note that too. This one step prevents those frustrating end-of-rental surprises.

5. Locate the Essentials

Find the hazard lights, windshield wipers, parking brake, and the fuel door opening button, if there is one. If you are renting for a family trip or group outing, check seatbelts and any folding seat mechanisms before you are in a busy parking lot with an audience.

6. Review Your Paperwork

Confirm that you have your rental agreement and contact information, and know what to do if you need roadside help. It’s better to have that information and never use it than to use it and regret it.

Make Your Van Rental Easy

A quick checklist helps you have a smooth trip and a stress-free return. If you’re traveling in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding cities, Carl’s Van Rentals has 11-passenger vans, Mega Transit vans, and 15-passenger vans available. Our team is also here to answer any questions about your rental. Reserve your van now at (904) 727-3848.