When planning a road trip, you need a car with fuel efficiency, comfort, and safety features. You should also consider one-way drop-off options and if your credit card provides extra coverage and perks.
Whether renting from a traditional rental company or using a car-sharing service, proper preparation will help make your trip stress-free. This article will cover five essential factors when renting a car for your family road trip.
Fuel economy
The longer you drive, the more fuel your vehicle consumes. That’s why you want to choose a car that can travel far and return good gas mileage. Hybrid and diesel vehicles are often the best option for road trips.
You can learn more about a car’s fuel economy by checking its EPA rating, usually displayed on the window sticker or the vehicle manufacturer’s website. The EPA rating lets you compare the car to others of similar size and weight. It also gives you more details on the car’s performance and features, including fuel efficiency.
When shopping for a road trip vehicle, take the time to test drive different models before making your purchase. This is the best way to get a feel for how comfortable and intuitive the controls are. It’s also an excellent opportunity to see if the cargo space will accommodate all your gear and passengers.
Another reason to rent a car at a car rental in Waikiki for your road trip is to avoid excessive wear and tear on your everyday vehicle. This can lead to expensive repairs and may decrease your vehicle’s resale value.
Safety
When planning a family road trip, it’s essential to consider the safety of everyone involved. This includes the passengers in the car and any pets or young children that might be traveling alone. It is also essential to ensure your chosen vehicle has all the necessary safety features, such as seatbelts and airbags. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the car before leaving so you can spot any potential issues and fix them as needed.
Aside from being able to drive a car better equipped for the terrain you’ll be going through, renting a vehicle for your road trip can save you money on maintenance costs in the long run. Driving your car for long hours can cause additional wear and tear that’ll add up over time and hurt the resale value.
Another thing to remember when renting a car for your family road trip is the insurance cost. While your credit card may provide rental car coverage, it’s best to research the agency you’re using in advance and see their available options. You should also find out if they offer additional services, such as roadside assistance, that your credit card may not cover. It’s also worth comparing prices and fees between agencies before deciding.
Convenience
The most apparent reason for renting a car for your road trip is convenience. Especially if you want to save time washing and maintaining your vehicle or are concerned about wear and tear. Renting a top-quality car allows you to pamper yourself on your vacation, whether cranking up the stereo with your favorite playlist or enjoying the comfort of a massage seat.
Another benefit of car renting is that it eliminates the worry about gas mileage or roadside assistance. Many rental companies offer a variety of vehicles that are perfect for road trips, such as SUVs or minivans, that can accommodate more people and luggage than your regular vehicle. Some even have off-road capabilities and advanced features, such as all-wheel drive.
Depending on your trip itinerary, you may also find a rental company that offers one-way rentals, saving you time and hassle. Additionally, ensuring you get the best deal is always a good idea. If you’re a member of a discount program with a credit card and partnerships with car companies, take advantage of those benefits. Lastly, check with your hotel if they have a rental car desk or kiosk near you.
Comfort
Whether you’re traveling with young children or older family members, comfort is critical when it comes to long road trips. Fortunately, rental cars are often equipped with the latest features and amenities for an enjoyable ride. Plus, they undergo regular maintenance and inspections to ensure they’re in top condition for your trip.
You can also choose from various vehicles when you rent a car, depending on the size of your group and the terrain you’re driving through. For example, a midsize sedan might be perfect for a small family, while an SUV or minivan could be better suited to a larger group or those with lots of luggage.
Another benefit of renting a car for your road trip is that it may be more cost-efficient than using your vehicle. This is particularly true if you’re avoiding excessive wear and tear on your car or if your vehicle has a limited mileage allowance that will be exceeded with this type of travel.
It’s essential to understand the car rental costs you’ll be responsible for and what your credit card offers in terms of coverage before you make a decision. Many rental car companies provide CDW (collision damage waiver) insurance coverage that may save you money if you’re involved in a collision during your trip.