The last time I went to the Rockies in The States I hired a 4x4 to travel the backcountry byways. I was amazed however to find in the small print of the rental contract that the insurance would be invalid if the vehicle was damaged whilst using a non-metalled road. I thought that 4x4 vehicles were designed as off-road vehicles.

Have you any thoughts about how I can get around this problem, please? I am anticipating a trip to New Zealand where off-road travel may be a tempter. Paul Clark, by email

Times Online travel insurance expert Elizabeth Colman responds: Be warned: Any damage to a rental car caused when you take it off tar-sealed or metal roads will almost always be your reponsibility and you will have to pay for it. The rental company's insurance will not pay out, and this policy applies world-wide.

Car rental companies as a general rule do not allow you to take the car off-road - even if it is a 4x4. Some very specific exceptions apply if you are renting in an area where there are many unsealed roads as part of the local infrastructure.

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In areas such as Kenya, if you encounter an unsealed road on your journey from A to B you are still likely to be covered - although you should always check with the local operator.

If you are planning to embark on serious off-road 4x4 driving, in New Zealand or elsewhere, it is best to go to a specialist tour company. Once there, make sure to ask about insurance - car, personal injury and property - and be sure to read the policy fineprint.

Elizabeth Colman is a business reporter for The Times

Do you have a question for our experts? Email any travel-related question to us at yoursay@timesonline.co.uk

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