Renting a Car: How to Save and Avoid Fees
Rental car prices and fees can vary hugely, and extra charges at the counter add up fast. Here's how to find a better rate, decide what insurance you need, avoid common fees, and protect yourself at pickup and return.
By Pond.com editors Updated 3 min read
Quick answer
- Compare prices across companies and booking sites, and book a refundable rate so you can rebook if prices drop.
- Off-airport locations are often cheaper than airport counters, which add extra fees.
- Check what your own auto insurance and credit card already cover before buying the rental company's coverage.
- Avoid prepaid fuel, toll packages and add-ons you don't need.
- Photograph the car inside and out at pickup and return.
Renting a car gives you freedom on a trip, but the price you see online is rarely the price you pay. Taxes, fees, insurance and add-ons can push it much higher. A little preparation keeps costs down and avoids disputes when you return the car.
This article is general information. Check your own insurance policy and card benefits before you rent.
Find a better rate
- Compare several rental companies and booking sites.
- Book a free-cancellation rate and check prices again closer to your trip; rebook if it drops.
- Try off-airport locations, which often avoid airport fees.
- Use memberships and discounts: warehouse clubs, auto clubs, employers and some credit cards offer lower rates.
- Choose the smallest car that fits your group and luggage; upgrades are sometimes free when small cars run out.
- Watch rental length: a weekly rate can be cheaper than five or six days.
Decide on insurance before you arrive
The rental company will offer several types of coverage:
| Coverage | What it covers | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| Collision or loss damage waiver | Damage to or theft of the rental car | Your auto policy and credit card benefits |
| Liability | Damage or injury to others | Your auto policy's liability coverage |
| Personal accident | Medical costs for you and passengers | Your health insurance |
| Personal effects | Belongings stolen from the car | Your homeowners or renters policy |
Call your insurer and card issuer to confirm what's covered, including any limits, the type of vehicle, and coverage abroad.
Avoid common fees
- Fuel: return the car full and skip prepaid fuel unless you'll return it nearly empty.
- Tolls: rental toll packages often charge a daily fee. Bring your own toll pass if allowed, or pay tolls another way.
- Additional drivers: some companies waive the fee for spouses or partners.
- Young driver fees for renters under 25.
- One-way drop-off fees.
- Late returns, which can add a whole extra day.
- Add-ons like GPS and satellite radio; use your phone instead.
- Cleaning fees for smoking, pet hair or sand.
At pickup
- Walk around the car and photograph or video every side, the wheels, windshield and interior.
- Make sure existing damage is noted on the rental agreement.
- Check the fuel level and mileage.
- Read the agreement before signing, and decline extras you don't want.
At return
- Refuel nearby and keep the receipt.
- Take photos again in the return lane.
- Get a final receipt before you leave.
Common questions
Maybe not. Your own auto insurance may extend to rental cars in the US, and many credit cards offer rental car damage coverage when you pay with the card and decline the rental company's waiver. Check both before your trip, especially for international rentals, which may not be covered.
Airport locations usually add concession recovery fees and other taxes. An off-airport branch a short ride away can be much cheaper, though you'll need to factor in getting there.
Usually, yes, from age 20 or 21 at many companies, but expect a young driver surcharge. Some memberships and corporate rates waive or reduce it. A few states set different minimum ages.