Hidden Fees When Renting a Car
Airport Surcharges
Explanation
Many rental agencies charge a surcharge when picking up or dropping off a vehicle at an airport. These fees can range from $10 to $50 per day, depending on the airport location and rental company.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
To avoid this fee, consider renting a car from an off-airport location. You might need to take a short shuttle ride, but it can save you money. Additionally, some rental agencies waive the surcharge for loyalty members or when booking directly.
Fuel Charges
Explanation
Rental companies often provide a choice between pre-paying for a full tank of gas or returning the car with a full tank. If you opt for the pre-paid fuel option, you could pay an inflated price of $5 to $10 per gallon—often higher than local gas prices.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
To avoid excessive fuel charges, always opt to refuel the car yourself before returning it. Check the fuel tank level at pick-up and plan to return the car with a full tank to avoid paying inflated rates.
Insurance and Collision Damage Waivers (CDW)
Explanation
Rental companies offer various types of insurance, including CDW, which typically costs $10 to $30 per day. Opting for this coverage increases the overall rental cost significantly.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Check if your personal car insurance or credit card offers coverage for rental cars. If so, you can decline the rental agency’s insurance, saving you money. Always read the fine print and confirm coverage with your insurance provider.
Young Driver Fee
Explanation
Drivers under the age of 25 are often charged an additional fee, which can range from $10 to $30 per day, sometimes more depending on the rental location.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
If you’re under 25, the fee is generally non-negotiable. However, some rental agencies may waive the fee for members of certain loyalty programs, or if you’re renting for an extended period. Check for rental companies that specialize in offering lower fees for younger drivers.
Additional Driver Fee
Explanation
Many rental companies charge an extra fee for additional drivers. This can range from $10 to $15 per day per driver.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
If the additional driver is a spouse or partner, some rental companies may waive the fee. Some loyalty programs also offer free additional drivers, so it’s worth asking. If possible, limit the number of drivers to avoid this charge.
One-Way Rental Fees
Explanation
If you rent a car at one location and return it at another, many rental agencies impose a one-way fee, which can range from $50 to $300, depending on the distance between locations.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
To save on one-way fees, try to book your rental in advance and look for deals where one-way rentals are free. Alternatively, plan your trip so that the drop-off location is close to the pick-up location.
Late Return Fees
Explanation
If you return the car after the agreed-upon time, you may incur a late fee, which could range from $25 to $100 or more, depending on the rental agency. Some companies charge for an additional day if the car is returned late by even a few hours.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Always return the car on time to avoid late charges. If your flight is delayed or you need more time, contact the rental agency in advance to extend your rental period and avoid penalties.
Extra Mileage Fees
Explanation
Some rental agreements come with a mileage limit, and if you exceed the agreed mileage, you could face a charge of $0.25 to $0.75 per mile. For example, a 100-mile overage could add $25 to $75 to your total cost.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
When booking, look for rentals with unlimited mileage. If that’s not available, try to estimate your expected mileage and choose a plan with higher limits or negotiate a flat rate for the additional miles.
Toll Fees and Devices
Explanation
Some rental agencies offer a toll device (like a transponder) to automatically pay tolls, but this can come with daily or per-use fees of $3 to $10 per day, plus the cost of the tolls themselves.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Avoid these fees by using your own toll pass or paying tolls directly when possible. If you don’t plan on using toll roads, request a car without a toll device.
Cleaning Fees for Excessive Dirt
Explanation
If you return the car excessively dirty (e.g., with mud or stains), rental agencies may charge a cleaning fee ranging from $25 to $100.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Keep the car clean during your rental. A quick wash before returning the vehicle can save you from unnecessary cleaning fees. Check the car thoroughly before returning it to ensure there’s no damage or excessive dirt.
GPS Charges
Explanation
Renting a GPS unit can add $10 to $15 per day to your rental cost.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Use your smartphone for navigation instead of renting a GPS. Many rental companies will offer a GPS device as an optional add-on, so it’s a good idea to confirm if you need one. Often, your phone’s map application will suffice, saving you money.
Roadside Assistance Fees
Explanation
Some rental agencies charge an additional daily fee for roadside assistance, typically $5 to $10 per day.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Check if your credit card or personal car insurance covers roadside assistance before purchasing this coverage. If not, evaluate whether it’s worth it for your trip. For most rentals, roadside assistance is only necessary for long-distance trips or in areas with limited service.
Cross-Border Fees
Explanation
If you plan to take the rental car across state or country borders, many agencies charge an additional fee for the permit to cross. This fee can range from $25 to $75, or more for international trips.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
Avoid cross-border fees by renting a car that allows cross-border travel without additional charges. If you plan to drive across borders, clarify the policy and fees with the rental agency in advance.
Equipment Rental Fees (Car Seats, Snow Chains, etc.)
Explanation
Rental agencies often charge for extra equipment like child car seats, snow chains, or roof racks. Fees typically range from $10 to $30 per item per day.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Bring your own equipment if possible. For instance, bring a car seat or use your own snow chains instead of renting them. Many car rental companies will allow you to bring your own without issue, saving you additional costs.