For someone from Bern spending a vacation in Lausanne, the right rental car choice mainly depends on (1) where you’ll actually drive (city center vs day trips) and (2) how much you’re carrying (people + luggage + gear).
1) Pick the category based on your vacation plan
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Lausanne city center + tight parking + 1–2 people → city car / compact (easier to park, less stress).
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2–4 people + suitcases → spacious compact / sedan (better highway comfort + luggage-friendly).
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Family + stroller + lots of luggage → estate/wagon / family car (a real game-changer to avoid playing Tetris).
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Mountains / snow (this time of year) + tricky roads → SUV (useful mainly if you go to higher altitude often; otherwise a compact with good winter tires is usually enough).
2) The 7 checks that prevent 90% of unpleasant surprises
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Size & parking: in Lausanne, too big = a headache (especially if you stay in town).
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Real luggage volume: count “suitcases + bags + shopping” (it grows fast on vacation).
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Winter tires / snow equipment: essential if you plan mountain trips (ask what’s included).
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Mileage: if you’re doing “Lausanne + Montreux + Valais + return trips”, choose a comfortable mileage option.
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Fuel policy: go for something clear (full-to-full ideally).
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Insurance & excess: check the excess amount (that’s the real cost if something happens).
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Useful extras: child seat, snow chains, additional driver, etc. → plan ahead rather than paying at the counter.
3) 3 ready-to-go choices
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City break + Lake Geneva: compact (agile, economical, easy to live with).
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Vacation for 4 with luggage: estate/wagon (comfort + big trunk).
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Regular mountain getaways: SUV (extra margin + comfort).
