Car rental — pickup, return, and ‘don’t get stuck at the desk’ steps

All the micro-steps: where to walk, what to check, what to photograph, and what to do before you drive away.

Rental summary (from screenshots)

Car: VW Touran + 3 booster seats

Pickup: Munich Airport (MUC) — Sat, Aug 15 @ 12:30

Return: Munich Airport (MUC) — Fri, Aug 28 @ 19:30

Reservation: 782766806

At MUC: the exact walking instruction

  • Exit customs.
  • Follow signs for “Mietwagenzentrum” (Car Rental Center).
  • It’s in the Zentralbereich between Terminal 1 and 2.
  • Expect a 5–10 minute walk (or short S‑Bahn hop depending on gate).

Desk success checklist (do this before they hand keys)

  • Have the passport, Israeli driver’s license, and the credit card used for booking (in the driver’s name).
  • Confirm you’re getting the VW Touran (or same class).
  • Booster seats: you ordered 3. Verify they’re clean, latch properly, and fit.
  • Ask about fuel policy (full-to-full is simplest).

Before you drive away (2 minutes that save 2 hours later)

  • Photograph all sides, wheels, windshield, and the dashboard with fuel level + mileage.
  • Pair phone Bluetooth and set up a “front seat kit” (wipes, trash bags, tissues, charger).
  • Austria vignette check: look at the windshield for a sticker. If missing, buy a 10‑day digital vignette at the first gas station after leaving MUC (~€11.50).

Return day (Fri Aug 28)

  • Fill up near (not at) the airport — the guide suggests Erding area.
  • Follow signs for “Mietwagen Rückgabe” (car rental return).
  • Park in your supplier’s row, hand keys over, and get a receipt.