Planning to rent a car for your next trip? According to data from Zubie, Around 50% of Americans are planning to travel during the holiday season, with 33% choosing to rent a car for their Holiday journeys. On average, consumers allocate $86.04 per day for rental cars.

Whether you’re aiming to save money, ensure your family’s safety, or pick the perfect vehicle for the terrain, this guide covers everything you need to know before you hit the road. From pricing tools to essential tips, this checklist will help you avoid common pitfalls.

First—Pricing And Comparison Tools

The average daily cost of a rental car in the U.S. ranges from $60 to $100, depending on the car type, season, and location. Luxury and premium cars often cost $120 or more per day, while economy models might fall on the lower end. To get the best deal:

1. Compare prices on sites like Kayak, Rentalcars.com, or Expedia.
2. Check if memberships like AAA or Costco offer discounted rates.
3. Look for package deals that bundle car rentals with flights and hotels.

How to Find Discounts

1. Promo Codes: Check for discounts on the rental company’s website. Sites like RetailMeNot often list promo codes.
2. Loyalty Programs: Join programs like Hertz Gold Plus or Enterprise Plus for discounts and perks.‍
3. Timing: Book early, especially during peak seasons, to lock in lower rates and reserve your vehicle.

Age Restrictions and Fees if Under 25

Age matters when renting a car. Most rental companies set the minimum age at 21, but drivers under 25 typically face “young renter” fees ranging from $10–$50 per day. These fees can significantly increase your total cost, but there are ways to reduce or avoid them:

1. Hertz and AAA: If you’re a member of AAA, Hertz waives the young renter fee for drivers aged 20–24. This can save you up to $30 per day.
2. USAA Membership: USAA members renting with participating companies, such as Avis or Budget, can often avoid these fees.
3. Lower Fee Companies: Alamo, Dollar, and Thrifty tend to charge less for young renters compared to premium brands.
4. Employer Benefits or University Discounts: Check if your employer or university offers partnerships with rental companies that include fee waivers.

Insurance Considerations

Car rental insurance can add $10–$40 per day to your costs, depending on the coverage. Before opting for the agency's insurance, consider these tips:

Independent Insurance Options

1. Shop for standalone rental car insurance through Allianz or InsureMyRentalCar.
2. Compare prices to see if independent insurance is cheaper than the rental company’s options.

Credit Cards That Offer Rental Car Insurance

Many credit cards come with built-in rental car insurance, offering protection against damage or theft when renting a vehicle. To activate this coverage, you generally need to pay for the rental with your credit card and decline the rental company’s collision or loss damage waiver (CDW/LDW). Credit card rental coverage typically comes in two forms: primary coverage, which handles eligible claims without involving your personal auto insurance, and secondary coverage, which supplements your personal policy by covering deductibles or additional fees. 

Most cards cover damage to or theft of the rental car, and some also include benefits for towing or loss-of-use fees charged by the rental company. However, this coverage doesn’t extend to liability for injuries or damage to other vehicles or property and often excludes certain vehicles, like luxury models, trucks, or motorcycles. It’s essential to review your card’s terms to understand coverage limits and eligibility requirements, as this benefit can save you money and provide peace of mind during your travels.

Some credit cards currently offering rental car coverage:

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred: Provides primary coverage for most rentals.
2. Chase Sapphire Reserve: Premium coverage benefits including primary car rental insurance.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards: Covers damages and theft as a benefit.
4. American Express Platinum: Offers optional premium car rental insurance for a flat rate.
5. American Express Gold: Secondary coverage, plus access to additional travel benefits.

Check your card’s terms to confirm coverage limits and requirements.

Other Things You Might Not Commonly Think Of

Renting a car can seem straightforward, but there are details that people often overlook—details that can make or break your rental experience. From ensuring you have the right documentation to picking the most suitable vehicle for your trip, paying attention to these lesser-known aspects can save you money, time, and stress.

Documentary Requirements for Drivers

1. Bring a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the renter’s name.
2. International travelers may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Car Seats for Children and Other Equipment

1. Rental car agencies offer car seats for $10–$15 per day. Consider bringing your own to save money.
2. Ask about GPS devices or roof racks if needed for your trip.

Consider Vehicle Needs for Location/Weather

1. Winter Conditions: For snowy or icy roads, rent a car with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). These options often cost an extra $20–$50 per day but are invaluable in rough conditions.
2. Fuel Economy: Choose economy cars for long-distance drives or urban travel to save on fuel costs.

Downloading the Agency’s App

1. Save time by managing bookings, pickup, and drop-off through the rental company’s app.
2. Apps like Enterprise or Avis let you skip the counter and check in digitally.

Inspect and Document the Vehicle Upon Pickup and Return

1. Take photos of the car’s interior and exterior to document existing damage.
2. Confirm the fuel level and mileage before leaving the lot.

Bringing It All Together

Renting a car doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By planning ahead, using comparison tools, and understanding your insurance options, you can save money and avoid stress. Don’t forget to choose the right vehicle for your needs, whether it’s an AWD car for winter or an economy model for a budget-friendly trip.