With more than ten million car rental transactions taking place throughout the world each year, it is inevitable that sometimes mistakes can be made, particularly in the busy summer months.

But to ensure motorists enjoy a smooth experience when renting a vehicle abroad, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has published a ten-step advice plan for drivers to take note of before entering an agreement.

Firstly, the regulatory body advises that motorists do their research before choosing a company to hire a car from, making sure they are wary of particularly low prices or anything that sounds too good to be true.

Once a rental firm has been chosen, the BVRLA urges drivers to read all paperwork and insurance documents thoroughly and not to be afraid if they have any concerns they feel need raising.

Motorists should also weigh up different fuelling options and find one that suits them, while it is a good idea to tell the hire company exactly what their intentions for the vehicle are – if a driver is planning to take it overseas, insurance may not cover it, so it is important to clarify this before the event.

In addition, those renting the car should thoroughly check it over before signing any paperwork and driving off in it, ensuring the company makes a record of any scratches or dents.

Finally, when it comes to returning the vehicle to the company, drivers should make sure a representative from the hire firm is present. If this is not possible, motorists should leave the car in a secure place and take photos of its condition in case any disputes arise.

However, chief executive of the BVRLA Gerry Keaney added that most car rental transactions take place without any problems and highlighted some of the benefits of exploring a destination in this way.

He stated: "Whether you're heading abroad to the Italian lakes or going on a staycation to one of Britain's beaches, a hire car is the ideal way to have an enjoyable holiday this summer.

"Car rental is more flexible than public transport and far more cost-effective than taking taxis everywhere, so it gives millions of tourists the freedom to explore their destination in comfort and at their own pace."