Most people take a vacation because they want to be "free" from their routine lives. Packaged tours might give them a chance to escape from the same old boring life, but it does not give much freedom to the travelers. Those tours usually involve stepping on the bus, stepping out for a limited length of time, and stepping right back on. Everything is planned and there isn't much travelers can do should they require something different.

On the contrary, if travelers want total control over their holiday, they have to make plans by themselves. Arranging for public transportation in a foreign place is not easy and sometimes inconvenient. There are some hidden treasures that are rather difficult to access by public transportation, especially when travelers are lugging their bags around. This is where car rentals come in handy (for those who can drive and possess an international driver's license, that is).

"Although it is little known yet, however, the best way to travel in Japan is by car," says Keiji Nishimura, the Founder & President of Coocom Co., Ltd. which has over 831,000 members, 3,700 affiliated hotels, over 900 affiliated car rental outlets nationwide, and many other services available. "We predict that rental car travel in Japan will be the most popular form of travel by foreign tourists."

Car rental agency rents automobiles for a fee. Most car rental agencies have several branches for the customer's convenience. The cars come in different sizes, brands and conditions, and the price varies from car to car.

Just because the car is not legally yours does not mean you do not have to take a good care of it because it is required that the vehicle must be returned in a good condition or you will have to pay extra fees. But since this is a highly competitive market, car rentals agencies have added a variety of special offers, such as free GPS navigation, 100% confirmed booking and special discounts.

Renting a car online is quick and easy, but you may need to search through hundreds of web sites before you can find the best deals. Online booking sites such as Expedia or Travelocity are a good way to comparison shop but be sure to check the car rental company's own web site for special deals or promotions; there are often discounts for booking online. You should consider different agencies and different deals before going for any of them. Make sure there is no additional fee. Once you have paid, be sure to get a receipt, as this is necessary when you need evidence.

If you are price-conscious, there is bidding option. Go to a bidding site like Priceline, where you type in how much you want to pay. Once you've placed your bid and it is accepted, you will be charged that amount if the price you have requested. Priceline guarantees that your reservation will be with one of five major rental agencies.

Most people want the cheapest car, so economy cars are sold out first most of the time. It is advisable you reserve an economy car because if there is none left upon your arrival, you will get an upgrade to a better vehicle for the economy rate. If there is an economy car and you change your mind, you can always upgrade on the spot, and if you know how to talk, you might not have to pay more.

Before you drive off, make sure you know how to use the car (ignition, horn, headlights, blinkers, windshield wipers and so on) and check the car for damage. If you notice any, point it out to someone at the rental agency right away.