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Guides on How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent a Car?

Updated 12/16/2023

As stated by the top 8 car rental agencies, you should be at least 21 to rent a car. Fortunately, you can still find many under 21 car rental options available. There are several suppliers that provide car rental deals to 18- and 19-year-old drivers.

What does this mean to you? You can plan an amazing road trip even as a fairly young driver and use the car to make your trip even more exciting.

Of course, there are many factors to consider for successful underage travel. So, we have prepared a short but informative guide, where you will find all the necessary info regarding car rental under 21 and everything connected with it.

Table of contents:

Why are young drivers under the age of 21 overcharged?

According to statistics, young drivers are significantly more often involved in traffic collisions. Every car crash is a money risk for the owner of the car, e.i. the car rental company. Trying to financially protect themselves, agencies impose a young driver’s fee, which is a financial guarantee for them.

An underage fee may add $15-$73 per day to the basic price. This is the main reason why under 21 rental car deals cost a little more. 

How to get a rental car under 21?

In fact, you don’t need to have something extraordinary to rent a car under 21. The key to a successful procedure is full compliance with the provider’s requirements. The following step-by-step guide will make it easy for you to find a car rental under 21 years of age for your road trip:

  • Prepare your driver’s license to be in good condition. To start with, carefully check the validity dates – it shouldn’t expire either before the start or during your trip. Next, make sure that your original driver’s license is suitable for picking up a car rental for under 21 in the desired location. Otherwise, prepare an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Provide a credit or debit card. When booking online, you will need to provide your electronic card number, expiration date, security code, and owner’s name. Matching the name of the main renter and the name indicated on the bank card is one of the main conditions for car rental under 21 years old.
  • Pay the young driver’s fee. This is a mandatory payment if you are under 21 years old. Its amount depends on the car category, location, age, and local legislation.

How long do I need to have a driving license to rent a car under 21?

As a general rule, the minimum period of holding a driver’s license at the time of rental should be at least 1 year. Plus, during the same period, it must be in good condition, which means: 

  • it has not been revoked, canceled, or suspended;
  • it meets the license requirements for the desired pickup location. This is largely the case for international travelers using a domestic driver’s license.

Naturally, you can’t pick up under 21 car rental if you received your license just a week, a month, or even six months ago.

USA age

What rental car companies rent to under 21 in the US?

Among the large choice of providers, most give the green light to car rental for under 21 renters. They include both large international and smaller regional agencies: Avis, Alamo, Budget, Dollar, Fox, Enterprise, National, Hertz, Payless, Thrifty, Sixt, etc. If you are looking for the right provider for your upcoming road trip, check out the following table. It contains a list of available companies and their car rental age requirement.

Company Minimum age Young driver’s fee Vehicle category restrictions
AVIS Rent a Car
Avis		 21 $27/day No minivans/vans, premium and full-size SUVs
Alamo Rent a Car logo
Alamo		 21 $20/day Economy through Full-size vehicles only
Budget Rent a Car
Budget		 21 $27/day No minivans/vans, luxury cars and full-size SUVs
Dollar Rent A Car
Dollar		 20 $25-$35/day Depends on location
Fox Rent A Car
Fox		 19 $20/day Depends on location
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Enterprise		 21 $20/day Economy through Full-size vehicles only
National Car Rental
National		 21 $20/day Economy through Full-size vehicles only
Hertz
Hertz		 18 $20-$30/day No premium and exclusive collection vehicles
Payless Car Rental
Payless		 21 $25/day Depends on location
Thrifty Car Rental
Thrifty		 20 $25-$35/day Depends on location
SIXT Rent a Car
Sixt		 21 $15-$35/day No minivans/vans, premium, luxury, convertible vehicles, and SUVs

Exceptions! Almost all of the above-mentioned companies allow a minimum car rental age of 18 in the states of New York and Michigan. Under 21 drivers pay a young driver’s fee of $52-73 in NY and $40-48 in MI.

With Hertz, in Alabama and Nebraska, you can rent a car at the age of 19 and older.

What car rental companies rent to 18-year-olds?

Hertz lowered their minimum car rental age to 18 in all states around the USA, except Alabama and Nebraska.

If you are traveling on a government/military order or you want to pick up a car rental under 21 in the states of NY or MI, you can rent from any of the major car rental companies at the age of 18: Avis, Alamo, Budget, Dollar, Fox, Enterprise, National, Hertz, Payless, Thrifty, Sixt.

Can I rent a car at 17 y.o.?

No, as for rental cars, it is not possible. The requirements for a rental car age in Europe and the USA oblige you to be 18 years or older. Moreover, the majority of international and local companies provide their vehicles to those drivers who have already reached the age limit of 21.

Europe age

Which car rental company is the best for young drivers?

As a young driver, you are probably focusing on cheap prices as a guiding factor when choosing providers among car rental companies under 21. Therefore, we recommend that you pay attention to Enterprise, National, Fox, and Alamo, which offer the lowest young driver fees of $20 per day. By the way, Alamo and National usually have the most affordable rental rates, which give you even more flexibility when searching for the right car rental under age 21.

If you are a young driver looking to travel without limits, look for Fox and Hertz offers. Hertz lowered their minimum age to rent a car to 18 around the USA, except Alabama and Nebraska, where it is 19 years of age. Fox allows renting a car 19 years old in any of more than 100 locations in the USA, while the minimum age for other suppliers is 20.

Where can I rent a car at 20 in America?

In general, you have no geographic boundaries to rent a car for your upcoming trip, but choosing the right agency is really important. Why? Because most rental car companies under 21 provide vehicles exclusively in New York and Michigan – and only Hertz, Fox, Dollar, and Thrifty offer deals for 20-year renters in all major locations in the United States. 

That is, you can easily pick up a car rental under 21 exactly where you want and need it. Here are some popular locations: 

Car rental California under 21 

Dollar, Thrifty, and Fox are the providers who are ready to give you under 21 car rental Los Angeles with the minimum age of 20. However, if you are traveling for military, government, or business needs, you can enjoy LA car rental under 21 from any of the available companies starting from the age of 18.

Picking up a San Francisco car rental under 21 is also a great way to start your trip. You can choose from the following providers: Hertz, Dollar, Fox, and Thrifty, where the minimum age to pick up a car without any restrictions is 20 years old. Similar terms apply to San Diego car rental under 21.

Car rental under 21 in Florida 

If you search for Miami car rental under 21, look for deals from any company available. The minimum age to start your trip is 18 years old. Under 21 car rental Orlando assumes the same selection of companies and the same minimum age. In both Miami and Orlando, you can choose deals from Hertz (minimum age to rent a car is 18) Dollar, Thrifty (minimum age is 20), and Fox (minimum age is 19).

Car rental under 21 in other USA states 

Want to enjoy a Chicago car rental under 21? All major providers are available to you, including Avis, Alamo, Budget, National, Hertz, Payless, Enterprise, and Sixt. A similar selection of companies is provided for under 21 car rental Boston. The minimum age in both cases is 18 years old – for military, government, or business orders. If you don’t have such an order, the minimum age is 18 with Hertz, 19 with Fox, and 20 with Dollar or Thrifty. 

As for New York car rental under 21, state law allows a minimum age of 18 for everyone, with no exceptions or limitations. Plus, you can choose from any of the presented companies. 

Travelers who are going to pick up a car rental Las Vegas under 21 must be at least 18 years old. The minimum age to rent a car in Las Vegas is 18 with Hertz, 19 with Fox, and 20 with Dollar or Thrifty. 

The minimum age to get a Seattle car rental under 21 is also 18 years old. The list of available companies includes Avis, Alamo, Budget, National, Hertz, Payless, Enterprise, Sixt, Dollar, Thrifty, and Fox.

Young driver

Find your best car rental under 21 with Rental24H.com

If you are looking for a fast, easy, and reliable under twenty one car rental then you are in the right place. At Rental24H.com, you get access to the best deals for young drivers of all ages. A clear search form won’t only allow you to find a car exactly where you need it, but at the same time compare all available options and choose the best deal. 

The cheap price guarantee is another reason for rent a car under 21 on Rental24H.com. We cooperate with the world leaders in the car rental market so that you, as our customer, receive the most favorable offers. 

Well, if you’re still in doubt, fill out our search form and start your dream journey now!

Rental Car Taxes and Fees by State

Each trip is associated with a waste of money, especially if it’s a trip to the USA. Therefore, budget planning is a fundamental element of a successful vacation – likely, nobody wants to spend too much money without getting the desired pleasure. 

What are the major components of tourist spending? They include visa preparation, plane tickets, accommodation, food, sightseeing, and transportation. It’s not a secret that many tourists are accustomed to travel around the United States in a rental auto. This is very convenient in terms of movement since it’s possible to be free from public transportation schedules. Also, it doesn’t break your budget, because the average price for car hire in the US is about $20-40/day.

Unfortunately, a significant part of the final price is occupied by car rental taxes and fees by state. What is the exact proportion of these extra charges in the total rental price?

Table of content:

Rental car taxes and fees by state

Different rental auto taxes in each state means that you pay a different price for a car, even if you pick up the same model from the same company. The amount of the additional fee is regulated not only at the legislative level but also by the companies themselves – they include airport taxes, insurance, and other hidden options. For a quick comparison, check out the table of rental auto taxes by state:

State Car Hire Surcharge Fuel Tax per gallon State Car Hire Surcharge Fuel Tax per gallon
Arizona 5.6% $0.19 Montana 4%+4% $0.32
Alaska 10% $0.15 Missouri 4% $0.17
Alabama 1.5%+4% $0.21 Nevada 10%+6.85% $0.34
Arkansas 10%+6.5% $0.22 Nebraska 4.5%+6.89% $0.28
Connecticut 3%+9.3%+$1/day tourist fee $0.44 New Jersey $5/day $0.41
Colorado 2.9%+$2/day rental fee $0.22 New Mexico 5%+$2/day $0.19
California 7.25%-9.5% $0.56 New Hampshire 9% $0.24
Florida 6%+$2/day $0.41 New York 6% $0.46
Delaware 2% $0.23 North Carolina 8%+6.95% $0.35
Dis. Columbia 10.25%+5.75% $0.24 North Dakota 3%+6.83% $0.23
Hawaii $3/day $0.48 Oklahoma 6%+8.93% $0.17
Georgia 4% $0.31 Ohio 5.75%+7.15% $0.28
Idaho 6% $0.33 Oregon 17% in Multnomah County only $0.37
Iowa 5%+6% $0.31 Pennsylvania 2%+$2/day $0.59
Indiana 4%+7% $0.42 The Island of Rhode 8%+7% $0.34
Illinois 5% $0.34 South Dakota 4.5%+1.5% $0.30
Kansas 4%+8.68% $0.24 South Carolina 5%+7.43% $0.21
Kentucky 6% $0.26 Texas 10% $0.20
Louisiana 4.45%+9.45% $0.20 Tennessee 3%+9.46% $0.26
Maryland 11.5% $0.35 Utah 2.5%+7.5% $0.29
Maine 10% $0.3% Vermont 9% $0.32
Michigan 6%+6% $0.41 Virginia 10% $0.21
Massachusetts 6.25%+$2 state fee $0.27 Washington 5.9% $0.49
Mississippi 6%+5% $0.22 West Virginia 6%+6.38%+$1/day state charge $0.36
Minnesota 9.2%+7.43% $0.29 Wisconsin 5%+3% $0.33
Wyoming 4% $0.24

States Providing the Highest Taxes and Fees

Obviously, each state has its own extra percentage rates in terms of car hire. However, why in some of them rental auto taxes are especially large?

The fact is that in these states local administration is authorized to set the number of additional fees at their own discretion. And if we add these taxes to the state fees, plus daily tourist charges, the total amount can reach almost 20% of the whole rental price.

rental car taxes and fees by state

Well, which states have the least profitable rental auto taxes and fees?

State Car Hire Surcharge Average combined Rate State Sales Tax Additional charges may apply Total Percentage
Nevada 10% – 6.85% 2% 16.85%-18.85%
Minnesota 9.2% 7.43% – – 16.63%
Arkansas 10% – 6.5% – 16.5%
D. Columbia 10.25% – 5.75% – 16%
Rhode Island 8% – 7% – 15%
N. Carolina 8% 6.95% – – 14.95%
Tennessee 3% 9.46% – – 12.46%
S. Carolina 5% 7.43% – – 12.43%
Connecticut 3% – 9.35% $1/day 12.35%+$1/day
Kansas 3.5% 8.68% – – 12.18%

Recommendations on how to avoid high fees in the USA

Despite the rather high rental taxes plus fees, everyone who is going to rent a car in the USA can significantly reduce their spending. In order to do this, check out some useful guidelines that allow you to lower the price tag slightly:

  • Avoid car hire at the airport

Airport charges are another item of expenditure for a car rental company. This means that it will be 100% included in the price of the car, and the rental itself will be more expensive than a similar one in the city location.

  • Read the rental terms and conditions carefully

Sometimes, unscrupulous providers deliberately hide the real value of extra payments so that the total price of the car looks attractive. Thus, read carefully the terms of the rental, especially those parts that are written in small print.

  • Choose the best location to start the trip

If you are going to have an interstate journey around the United States, which implies a long-term car hire, then it makes sense to choose a state and destination to pick up your car with the smallest rental car taxes. For this reason, see the first table of this article.

Road trip to the USA is always an unforgettable experience wherever you go, so don’t be afraid of extra charges applied when choosing to use rental cars. Often they don’t have a very strong effect on the final price, which means you won’t exceed the limit of your budget and will be fully satisfied with your vacation.

What other rental car fees can you face in the US? 

When making a reservation, the total price includes additional car rental fees. Check what extra charges you might pay at the rental counter in the list below: 

  • Car rental tax. This payment is a location-specific state tax. Keep in mind that rental car taxes by state can range from 2% to 16.85% of the total booking cost. 
  • Airport fee. You pay this charge for the convenience of renting a car from an airport-based company. 
  • Location charge. The company can collect this fee if you pick up the car not in the office, but, for example, in a hotel or downtown location that is more convenient for you. 
  • Insurance fee. Typically, you pay a daily insurance fee for the basic coverage (usually collision and liability protection) included in the original price. 
  • Mileage fee. If your provider limits the mileage, you will pay extra for exceeding it. However, you don’t have to worry if you travel with unlimited miles booked in advance. 
  • Young/senior driver surcharge. If your age is below or above the standard set by the company, you pay a daily extra charge. 
  • Additional driver fee. The agency charges a daily fee for each authorized extra driver. 
  • Fuel charge. You make this payment if you buy fuel in advance and don’t have to pay for it when you return. If you return a vehicle with less gallons than stated in the company’s policy, you pay the cost of the missing fuel plus a refueling fee. 
  • One-way fee. This charge is applied if you intend to return the vehicle to a different location. 
  • Toll fee. When driving on toll highways, you will have to pay a set amount. This happens automatically upon completion of a trip. 
  • Early/late return fee. Companies apply an extra charge if you return the car earlier/later than the date and time specified in the agreement. 

Car Rental in Puerto Rico Can Be A Piece Of Cake!

Puerto Rico is an iconic nation in the soul of the Caribbean. Luxurious beaches, a developed tourist infrastructure, a high level of service, and breathtaking nightlife beckon visitors from different parts of our planet. Plus, an incredible number of historical monuments and stunning landscapes won’t leave anyone indifferent. A visit to Puerto Rico will be pretty interesting, even for greatly experienced travelers. Moreover, this applies not only to nature, culture, or attractions but everything that can be seen there.

Puerto Rico has a well-developed road network, including highways, which the local Roads and Transportation Authority control. The intercity bus service is very poorly developed. The only link between the capital of the country, San Juan, and the west coast is provided by the small bus company Linea Sultana. Locals prefer to travel around the island exceptionally on their own transport, so car rental in Puerto Rico is a reasonable solution for those travelers who don’t like to stay in one place.

Table of content:

What to know about car rental in Puerto Rico?

On vacation, every traveler wants to make his trip as easy and hassle-free as possible. Whether you are going for just a couple of days or for a long time, your trip will be more pleasant and will bring much more pleasure if you pick up a Puerto Rico car rental.

You won’t need to rely on public transport in Puerto Rico. You will be able to get off the plane and drive directly to the desired destination by yourself. Also, you can forget about the painful attempts to squeeze into a crowded bus with suitcases! Since this island country is relatively small, car hire gives freedom of movement. White beaches, beautiful forests, and amazing ancient fortresses – all this will be at hand.

In short, with cheapest car rental in Puerto Rico, your travel issue will be finally resolved. All you need is to have valid driving documents, a passport ID and your age should be at least 21. 

According to thousands of travelers’ reviews, the average price for a vehicle on the island is $12-15/day, which means you have almost a 100% chance to get a cheap car rental in Puerto Rico. However, you need to search for cars in different locations and make a reservation in advance.

Car rental companies in Puerto Rico

car rental puerto rico, car rental in puerto rico

Competition among Puerto Rico car rental suppliers makes it possible to improve service quality and set prices at a more affordable level. Therefore, the presence of a large selection of companies is good news for travelers looking for attractive options.

The list of agencies specializing in car rental in Puerto Rico includes both well-known international brands and local providers:

Counters and offices of companies are located both within airports and in urban areas. Typically, locations for car rental at Puerto Rico airport operate 24 hours, while city pick-up spots are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The range of cars available in Puerto Rico includes all available sizes. Do you need a spacious minivan for a large family, or a compact car for budget travelers? No worries! What’s more, SUVs, luxury cars, and mid-size vehicles are also at your disposal.

Another feature of companies in the island is the insurance requirements. All suppliers ask to have valid liability protection, while damage insurance is included in the rental. If you decide to get protection as an extra option from your credit card provider, then you should ensure it applies to car rental in Puerto Rico.

Most popular Puerto Rico locations to check out

A wide range of car rental companies means every renter will have enough places to pick up a car. Offices and rental kiosks are situated both at airports and in urban locations, near the main tourist sights and within the hotels.

Those travelers who are going to reserve a car rental in Puerto Rico airport will have a greater choice of vehicles compared to city points, but the final price may be slightly higher.

car rental in puerto rico. puerto rico car rental

Since the island itself is rather small, you can focus not only on a specific location but also on a suitable vehicle and an attractive price when looking for a car. So, this is another key to the best car rental in Puerto Rico.

Unfortunately, you have the opportunity to book a car not in each spot, as the demand for cars is very large. 

However, most likely you will find suitable options in the following locations on the island:

  • Ponce Mercedita Airport;
  • car rental San Juan Puerto Rico Luis Munoz Airport;
  • car rental Aguadilla Airport Puerto Rico;
  • Fajardo;
  • Bayamon;
  • car rental Culebra Puerto Rico;
  • Mayaguez;
  • car rental in Ponce Puerto Rico;
  • car rental Ceiba Puerto Rico;
  • Carolina

Car parking in Puerto Rico

Using a rental car in Puerto Rico can be complicated by some factors, and parking is one of them. The fact is that in some places, such as the historic part of San Juan, the streets are very narrow, and it’s very difficult to find a suitable place to park your car.

When traveling to Puerto Rico, you have 3 parking options:

  • street parking;
  • parking garages;
  • hotel parking.

Street parking spots are equipped with parking meters that accept bank cards, coins, and special tickets. They can be bought everywhere in Puerto Rico and give the opportunity to leave the car for 30, 60, or 90 minutes.

puerto rico car rental, car rental puerto rico, rental car puerto rico

Parking garages are paid at the entrance – the average price is $2-3 per hour, or $20-30 per day. Hotel parking is one of the most convenient options, but overnight parking can cost $30-50.

For violation of parking rules, you’ll be fined. A parking ticket can be paid either by yourself or upon car rental drop off – the company will withdraw the required amount from your credit card.

Tips and hints to find the best car rental in Puerto Rico

You know, it’s very good to have the advice of experienced travelers wherever you go. Therefore, the following recommendations will certainly be useful to those who are going on a trip by car rental in Puerto Rico:

  • Reserve car hire online

Online reservation is more profitable than in-person rentals. In addition to a pleasant price, you will get a much more extensive selection of Puerto Rico car rental deals. By the way, the Rental24H mobile app is one of the most reliable ways to reserve an auto from any car rental company there.

  • Check options of local car hire providers

Sometimes, you can significantly reduce your spending by picking up a car not from well-known international suppliers like Europcar or Avis, but from a local provider who most likely has a more loyal price.

  • Use credit card coverage if possible

Rental insurance is a necessary thing, so the company will certainly offer you its options. However, they are more expensive than the coverage provided by your credit card supplier.

  • Avoid narrow neighborhoods  

If you want to visit the cramped historical parts of San Juan or Ponce, we recommend you leave the car in the nearby garage to explore the surrounding area on foot. Narrow streets are not only a difficult place for parking but also an easy way to damage your car.

  • Take advantage of a transponder to pay for toll roads

Puerto Rico has many toll roads, and the bad news is that checkpoints for some of them don’t accept cash. Your rental car Puerto Rico supplier will definitely offer you this device, so don’t refuse it.

Car travel should bring pleasure, especially if you visit such a natural oasis as Puerto Rico. The roads of the island cover the most picturesque places that will make your car trip bright and memorable. In order to get the maximum of positive impressions and avoid unexpected situations, then determine in advance those destinations where you want to go and follow these recommendations.

Find The Best SeaTac Or Seattle Parking Option!

Updated 12/16/2023

Seattle is an ultra-modern and high-tech city in the state of Washington. Space Needle, Columbia Center, Boeing Everett Factory – the list of its unique places is impressive. Also, the city is full of iconic historical sights, which makes it an incredibly popular destination among travelers. Convenient road system and reasonable prices for gasoline contribute to the fact that many visitors to the city use car rental instead of public transport. This is a very suitable way of transportation allowing every tourist feel free to choose where to go and what to see. 

However, due to the fact that there are a lot of cars in the city, searching for Seattle parking can cause a headache and complicate your journey.

Table of contents:

Parking in Seattle

When using a rental car, probably many auto-travelers will face the problem of leaving a vehicle in the city or a disaster of SeaTac Airport parking. This is not surprising, because it’s very difficult to easily navigate the place where you have never been before, especially if you are a foreigner.

The good news is that you can avoid many problems if you prepare their solution in advance. Therefore, by following some guidelines from this article, you will find the most suitable slot even without a Seattle parking map!

Before heading to the place where you want o stay overnight, you will be able to choose among the next options:

  • Street metered parking;
  • Parking lots and garages;
  • Hotel parking.

As in any city, the cost of parking is a value that directly depends on the specific place and time of day. As for the largest city of Washington, Seattle center parking fee during the busiest hours is about $5 per hour, while on the outskirts of the city the price drops to $0.5-$1 per hour.

The most peak hours to leave your car are usually between 11a.m. and 5p.m.. If you need overnight parking in SeaTac or city area, then you will be happy to know that it’s free from 6-8 p.m. till 8a.m.. Also, parking is not paid on Sundays and some national holidays. Unfortunately, it will be hard to find such spaces in the high-demand areas.

Another tool for a hassle-free parking in Seattle downtown is a special permit. The only drawback is that it requires actual confirmation of the residence, which means it’s available for locals only.

Seattle street parking: what is important?

parking seattle, seattle parking

You know how convenient it’s to leave the car close to the required place in order to have quick access to your personal transport later. For this reason, street parking in Seattle is the most commonly used way to leave a car for a night.

No worries about whether you will find a free space where you need it, because Seattle parking map covers all the major attractions, business facilities and other popular destinations throughout the city. The price of street park slots is one of the highest among US locations, which means choosing the right place as it will help you find the best rate and save your budget.

Parking meters are the way to pay for a space for leaving your car. Usually, they accept cash, coins, electronic bank cards, and have a 2-, 4- or 10-hour limit. The whole procedure takes several minutes:

  • You find a convenient parking spot.
  • Choose the required parking time and pay in any way possible.

In case of violation of Seattle downtown parking rules, you will be ticketed or even towed. Also, keep in mind that general traffic rules prohibit leaving the car for more than 72 hours in a row at the same parking space.

Cheap parking spots in Seattle

Due to the large area of the city and the abundance of special places, at first it will be difficult to decide where to leave the car. There’s a general rule – the closer to the center, the higher the cost. However, you can still find even a free place at the busiest areas.

For quick searching, you can use Spotangels, which is an online resource showing all available places for cheap airport parking in SeaTac and city downtown. The most popular city destinations are listed below:

If your goal is to find a low-cost Seattle parking garage, then in this case look for the orange $3 signs offering the same price for short-term parking. However, all these places have already been entered into the online services database, and it will be much more convenient for you to use them and not to search for a parking place while driving through the streets.

In addition to Spotangels, affordable parking in Seattle can be found by using such handy apps as Spothero, Park Mobile and BestParking. 

6 Downtown Seattle hotels with free parking

seattle airport parking, seattle parking map, seattle parking

Sometimes it’s very important to have a car at hand to be able to quickly start the engine and go to any place at any time. For this reason, many travelers want to take advantage of the best Seattle hotels and their no-cost parking slots.

Of course, this is very convenient from the point of view of transportation, since you can plan your vacation according to your needs and desires, without looking at the bus or subway schedule.

Also, when returning in the evening to the hotel by car, you will save yourself from the need to leave it in a parking garage somewhere in the vicinity of the hotel and go from there on foot.

Luckily, the list of hotels which include this option into the suite price is quite large, so it will make your choice easy and quick. Here’re some attractive options for travelers:

  1. Kings Inn (2106 5th Ave) – $152/night;
  2. Hotel Max (620 Stewart Street) – $149/night;
  3. Hilton Seattle (1306 6th Ave) – $181/night;
  4. Marco Polo Hotel (4114 Aurora Ave N) – $98/night;
  5. Brighton Retreat (45th Ave S) – $105/night;
  6. The Paramount Hotel (724 Pine St) – $167/night.

You have chosen a hotel but it doesn’t provide free garages for your vehicle? In this case, you’ll have to pay additionally $20-$50/night for a separate guarded space for your rental car.

Top Seattle airport parking lots

Imagine that you have a business or leisure trip with a starting point in Seattle. You need to get to the airport, but you don’t want to pick up a taxi. One possible – and probable the most befitting – solution is to use your own car for this purpose, and then leave it at SeaTac parking spot.

All customers who need a long term parking in SeaTac air hub are offered 2 variants to choose from:

  • Terminal direct parking.
  • General parking.

Terminal direct park lots are the most progressive and convenient solutions. The fact is that the fourth floor of a huge building that serves for parking has a direct connection to the main terminal of the airport via skybridge. This is the fastest way to get from the plane to your car and back. The exact address is 17801 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA. The only drawback of this variant is Sea-Tac Airport parking rates – $5 per hour, or $37 per day. 

Note: reservations are not allowed.

General parking is a good alternative when you can leave your car at the airport. It’s available on 1-3 and 5-8 floors of the building. Seattle airport parking rates in this section is $4/hour, $30/day or $140/week.

SeaTac hotels with free parking

Here are a few examples of hotels where you can leave your car for no cost:

  • Ramada (16720 International Boulevard) – $60/day;
  • Sleep Inn (20406 International Blvd) – $88/day;
  • Coast Gateway (18415 International Blvd) – $100/day;
  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson (3100 S 192nd St) – $87/day;
  • Surestay Plus (19260 28th Ave S) – $87/day;
  • Red Roof Inn (16838 International Blvd) – $68/day.

Parking downtown Seattle

seattle parking, seattle parking ticket, parking downtown seattle

If you need to leave your car in downtown Seattle parking, then you need to look for special garages marked with ‘P’ sign. The cheapest of them have an orange $3 inscription, which means the price of parking per hour is three dollars.

Also, those parking garages that are marked with a turquoise marker offer a fixed price for evenings and weekends. It’s usually cheaper than the standard tariff available in other garages – less than $7 for these times. The regular parking price in garages marked with blue ‘P’ sign is most commonly hourly and varies between $3 and $8 per hour.

For your convenience, there’s a comprehensive map which is an excellent way to find the cheapest parking downtown Seattle in just several clicks. Another advantage provided by online services is a real-time parking tracker showing currently-available parking spaces.

As you can see, Seattle parking is not a problem at all, and in order to choose the necessary option you just need to use these valuable recommendations and a smartphone in your hands. Also, don’t forget to follow the traffic regulations on the road to avoid any problems when traveling to Seattle by car.

Is One Way Car Rental With No Drop Fee Possible?

Updated 11/10/2023

Travelers take a car for rent at any given opportunity. Also, they often pick a one way rental option to band two travel points, airports, or just explore a new area. Sure enough, all tourists want to get one way car rentals no drop fee. No one likes penalties. Hiring the rental vehicle in the US and leaving it at different spots is often money-taking, but here we will tell you how to avoid a drop fee, what companies offer the cheapest one-way rental car deals and what are the most popular locations for such kind of trips.

Table of content:

Best one way car rental companies in America

Never forget, not all american car hire agencies provide cheap one way car rentals without having to pay for dropping-off the car. Even big respectable agencies with numerous rental spots all over America and abroad may not offer car rental pickup and drop off at different locations without a charge. So, if the agency you used to deal with charges you for one way rental option, it makes sense to change the agency.

Most demanded agencies and their ONE WAY FEE policy:

Alamo Rent a Car logo

Alamo one way fee

Be careful when booking with Alamo – they may take the so-called inter-city fee. Even if you decide to pick up a car in New York and drop it off in Buffalo, be ready to pay $297 for a trip, from which a car price is $89.95 and a drop fee is $150! Of course, Alamo return to a different location fee could be higher or lower, depending on the state and city where a driver starts the reservation.
But still, most of the locations go with no drop penalties. 

AVIS Rent a Car

Avis one way fee

Looking for a cheap one way car rental deal with no fee for drop-off with Avis? You can find a special proposal – one way airport-to-city transfer. You can ride a car one way across the nearby cities or airports. Such a proposal is also available when you take an auto in most of the US cities such Las Vegas and so on. 

Note, that they can ask for airport-to-downtown one way trip between certain US cities and airports. In this case, Avis change drop off location fee will be about $9,99 per day.

Budget Rent a Car

Budget one way fee

Hunting for the cheapest one way car hires no drop fee deal with this supplier. Like the previous company, Budget one way rental fee for 1 day will be about $9,99. The names of the cities you can check on the Budget web page.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Enterprise drop off fee

This agency has many interesting deals for one-way car rental with unlimited miles. The penalties vary by locations and time of the year, even more, they have special offers with no penalties. For example, a trip from NY city to Buffalo with an economy car will cost you $489 for 3 days, where $126.34 is a one-way charge already included in the price.

hertz

Hertz change drop off location fee

As usual, the penalty varies from location to location, so you need to check the T&Cs  of the company very carefully. In general, Hertz one way fee at the airports start from $9,99 and may be more then $150 per day.

How to avoid one-way rental fees in the USA?

Drop penalties in America usually bump into such criteria as the company-partner you rent a car from, travel distance, and a tourist season. So, can you drop off a rental car at a different location with no fees at all?  

  • Check rental spots

First of all, look through the list of big car hire agencies with numerous locations. But even these giants may not offer one way rental with no required penalties from some cities. Don’t focus on the airport rental only. Pay attention to the off-airport rental spots. You can save a lot or just get a car with a minimum one way fee car rental.

  • Read the fine print

Getting a rental car without a drop fee can be real if you know how to find it. Hiring an auto you fill in a special form where you can indicate the finite location and check the car rates. There is a variety of interesting offers. Also, you can find even more attractive proposal like a special one-way promo, city-to-city sales, airport-to-city specials.

  • California one way car rentals without drop off fees

Let’s see what the top requested car hire spots usually offer. Pleasantly, you have a real chance to pass over the fees for one way destination. Southern California one way deals are usually free of charge (some fees may be applicable if you rent certain types of cars, so always read Ts&Cs of your supplier). The most significant rental spots such welcomes visitors with no additional costs.

You may think that this is your real opportunity to take a car one way with no drop off charge. But you should know that the one way penalty is usually waived when you hire a car online and may not be seen in the total price. Read the fine print carefully to know all the price details.

cheap-one-way-deal

Hot routes for car rental drop off at a different location 

When you hire a car in any of American states one way, the extra money may apply. It varies depending on where you reserve a car. If you want to get one way car hire with no payments for dropping off your car, check the route carefully. Do you think that economy class car rental one way with no fee? Forget it, as such a deal doesn’t work with economy rental cars for the majority of rental companies.

Go from Los Angeles to San Francisco

This travel destination is the hottest one way rental route without fee for dropping off the car. It is not only in the USA but in the whole world. People come to see Disneyland, Santa Cruz, the Big Sur. It takes you no more than 7 hours of driving there. Leave the car and continue your trip in any direction.

Go one way from Miami to Orlando

Miami is another popular rental location where tourists often come to visit. This sunny state is very hospitable for drivers. Do you have in mind to rent a convertible car? There is nothing like driving from Miami to Orlando with the roof down! Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, green countrysides are especially attractive for people who like sport and nature. What is more, one way car hire no drop fee.

Go from Orlando to Tampa

Orlando is a place of bright attractions for kids and adults. Orlando International Airport is a rental spot with no one way drop charge. Ride your automobile and visit Tampa. This is a perfect place for all who like beach vacation and subtropics.

Go from Seattle to Portland

3 hours driving and you can get to Portland from Seattle. This destination usually takes no one way fee and full of sights and memorable places to see. Additionally, Portland offers a big range of road trips you have definitely never seen!

Rates do vary! The final price depends on the route you are following and the rental privacy policy in the chosen city. That’s why, before hiring a vehicle, learn the company’s politics and double check all possible fees.

A Comprehensive Guide On Car Rental Return

You have had a road tour and about ready for the car hire return. It is not a problem at all as the biggest rental agencies such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and others have offices in all major cities and airports including the international airport. As a rule, they are waiting for you from around 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. But before return the rental cars, there are a few facts you need to know.

Table of contents:

Rental car return step-by-step

Find the answers to all problematic questions about the car rental return RIGHT HERE. This information will open your eyes on how to save your time on dropping off procedure.

  1. How much is the rental car return time?

This process can be really fast, usually it takes up to 10 minutes! Of course, it can take longer in a hot season or when something is wrong with the car – up to 20-60 minutes

  1. What if I come earlier?

Early return is not a good idea. But if it happens, you face uncontrolled fees – Early Return Fee.

  1. How long does car rental deposit return process take?

As a rule, you can expect your money back in a period of 15 working days. Some banks take up to 30 days to process the refund.

  1. Is it possible to drop off a car after hours?

Car rental return after hours is real if you confirmed this with the manager. In short, you have to drop the keys into the special box and leave your auto at the parking spot.

  1. Is renting a car when you have no idea about the return date possible?

Just pick the vehicle for the tastiest price. Later, when you realize it is not enough, you can renegotiate another time schedule. Call any rent a car agency and they will explain how it works.

  1. Can I pay with a debit card for a rental car on return?

It’s a well-known fact that you should pay for the car with a credit card. Also, you should know that you can hire a car with your MasterCard or Visa debit card. Feel free to contact Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Fox, Hertz, Payless, Sixt, and Thrifty.

  1. What happens with a rental car damage?

No doubts, if the car agency gets their vehicle damaged on car rental return, you can say goodbye to your money. You are charged!

  1. What if I can’t return my car on time due to “bad weather”?

Call your agency and explain the situation. They may or may not accept it as a valid reason. But if you wait to tell them, you can get an unexpected penalty.

Car rental drop off rules and restrictions from US car rental agencies 

You have unlimited opportunities to catch the best deal for your road adventures or a business trip. It is not a problem to find what you need in the USA with the help of high-class car hire services. Which company is worth your attention? Find the answer here!

car rental return

Which agencies allow car rental drop off at a different location?

How to return a hire car at another place? Bringing your auto back at another state or city becomes real with the right partner agency. It is usually called a one-way rental. You can meet rental agencies, fining their clients for a one-way rental. According to the privacy policy, it is allowed to return Alamo rental car at different locations. ACE, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National, and Thrifty also have drop-off options at select locations. Enterprise one-way rental is allowable for certain vehicles only.

Which rental companies allow one way car rental with no drop fee?

Drop-off options at a new place are available WITHOUT FEE from ACE, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, National. The drop-off penalty with other car rentals companies varies per destination. The price can be about $70.

Which car rentals agencies support your idea to drive a car from Canada to America?

You can find such cross-border one-way cooperation the most expensive one. Availability may be limited to different locations and your particular dates. Hertz, Alamo, National are the most needed agencies if you want a car hire return else around the country.

Useful recommendations on car rental return

You know a lot about car hire rules. What about more qualitative information on how to return a hire car? How long does it take to return a car? What to do to avoid charges on your return? Let’s see!

car rental return

  • Search for a place to fuel your car

Most rental agencies have full to full fuel policy. So, detect the nearest place on your map where you can fill up the car before leaving it on the parking.

  • Take photos of your car before returning it

Taking photos of your car on return might help if there are any questions about the car damages.

  • Check all your things before leaving

Don’t forget your stuff and all the goodies in the car. 

  • Let the agent inspect your auto

The rental manager will examine the auto and do all the paperwork. Finally, he takes the keys.

  • For those who return your car after hours

Try to find a key box on the location! If you can’t see such a place to drop the keys, investigate the office door or search for a contact number in your papers.

You have had your holidays. You feel relaxed and refreshed. There is nothing to spoil your vacation. The car return procedure is not unclear and shady anymore.

What If I Pick Up A Rental Car Early?

Traveling by car is always interesting and convenient. You don’t need to be attached to anyone, be afraid of being late to the train or bus station, as well as overpay for luggage. With a rental car you’ll feel like a boss. That’s why many travelers prefer to rent a car and explore the city or even the whole country on wheels.

However, there are situations when it’s more advantageous for you not to lose precious traveling hours and to pick up a rental car early, that is, before the agreed time. But the question is does rental car pick up time matter?

If you booked a car in advance, the on-site receipt procedure will take not more than 30 minutes. You come to the car hire counter at the appointed time or you are met by a company representative, then you submit documents, fill out an agreement, and pick up the car.

Table of content:

pick up rental car early

Can you pick up a rental car early?

In order to answer whether you can pick up a rental car early, you probably should first check the policies of companies. The fact is that this issue is not regulated by documents anywhere, and this means its outcome depends on many circumstances.

First of all, you will be glad that the availability of pick up a rental car early still exists, but the general rule is the longer the period remaining until the real pickup time, the greater the probability that you will be denied.

The assumption that your car will be waiting for you on site 4-5 hours before the scheduled time is wrong. So, how early can you pick up a rental car? After the drop off procedure, all vehicle systems need to be carefully checked before the car is handed over to you. Of course, it will take some time, especially if some faults were found in the process.

Plus, every renter wants both the car’s exterior and interior to be clean, which would entail a waste of additional time on washing the rental car.

On average, you can expect to pick up rental car early if you visited a rental desk 1-2 hours before the contract time. Keep in mind that suppliers’ prices are based on the 24-hour format, and when picking up a car earlier, you must also drop it off earlier to avoid additional fees.

USA companies’ car rental early pick-up restrictions

pick up rental car early

As it was mentioned above, USA suppliers like Avis, Hertz, Enterprise or Budget usually don’t have an official policy to pick up rental car early, but at the same time they try to satisfy those travelers who need a car before the scheduled time.

Obviously, in a period of high demand, it will be harder for the company’s employees to prepare a car, and you may be refused an early pick-up at all. Therefore, it won’t be a surprise if you have to wait a bit.

In order to maximize your chances in an early pickup, you should contact the supplier as soon as possible and ask about this possibility. After you warn the company about this fact, it will probably try to make the car servicing faster.

Finding the right car rental places with early pick up is another way to get a car at a convenient time for you. As a rule, airport locations have a greater choice of cars and staff, which gives more opportunities when such non-standard situations arise.

Step by step recommendations on early pick-up

pick up rental car early

Careful planning is the key to pick up a rental car early as efficiently and easily as possible. Therefore, follow these guidelines to avoid unexpected situations with car hire in the future:

  1. Try to clarify all the details of the upcoming trip in advance to determine the optimal pickup time.
  2. If you admit the need for early pick up, then choose a location with an extensive range of available models on Rental24h.com to have more alternative options.
  3. In case you understand that it’s absolutely necessary for you to pick up a rental car early, don’t forget to notify the company about it in any way possible including telephone, email or via online support. Of course, you should do it as soon as possible.
  4. After that, the supplier will be aware of your intentions, and will tell you about the possibility to pick up the car earlier than it was planned initially.

How to Obtain AAA International Driving Permit?

Updated 12/14/2023

Today, the car is the most progressive type of transport in the United States. It’s used for a variety of purposes, including simple road trips around the city, business and leisure needs. In this regard, many Americans who travel outside the country are also accustomed to traveling by car. Fortunately, you need quite a bit for this – obtain AAA international driving permit the same day and get a car for a rental at the desired destination.

Table of contents:

What is AAA IDP and what its main features?

It is a special document allowing the person to drive his personal vehicle or rent a car in the territory of another country, subject to the rules and regulations established by local law. This document is valid on the basis of the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. IDP (international driving permit) is adopted as a driver’s identification form in 175 countries around the world. It has a translation in 10 different languages, contains a photo, a name, and information about driving qualifications, so it takes away all the problems when traveling outside the USA.

aaa international driving permit

If you are an American citizen, then you can get this precious document through AAA, which is the American Automobile Association. Nowadays, AAA is the world’s largest automotive club, although, in fact, it serves automobile clubs in the USA and Canada only. The association is a non-profit community created to protect the interests of motorists in North America.

Therefore, this organization is authorized to distribute international driving permit AAA certificate. The cost of this service is $20. All you need to do is fill out a given form, attach the necessary documents and send it by mail. The estimated triple AAA IDP processing time is 10-15 business days, which means you will receive it in about 2 weeks.

IDP has certain features:

  • It can be used for 1 year after issue;
  • It doesn’t work for driving on the territory of the USA;
  • It needs to be effective within 6 months of application date.

International Driving Permit Locations

The association has many offices in the United States and Canada. More than 54 million people are its members, and this is not surprising since America is considered to be one of the most motorized countries in the world. So many people like renting American automobile!

Regarding the number of branches, the association has 57 AAA International Driving Permit locations in the USA, which makes it possible to obtain this permit at the most convenient location. No matter whether you are renting a car in New York, Minneapolis, St Louis, Phoenix, Austin, and Los Angeles:  each office serves its own area, so before contacting AAA you can find the nearest branch in advance.

Keep in mind that the driving permit (IDP) through this association is available only to US citizens, and can’t be issued to foreign country people traveling to America. As a result, the international driving permit from AAA only works together with a domestic driver’s license.

IDP

What are the requirements to receive an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

As a private organization, the Automobile Association has its own requirements for obtaining the permit. First of all, you should read the privacy policy and make sure you satisfy the following requirements:

The next task is to download and fill out a special form that will contain your personal data. Then prepare 2 standard American-sized passport photos and your current U.S. driving document. Now you can take it all and head to the closest AAA subsidiary to apply for an IDP. Already on site you have to pay $20 of IDP cost for the service.

However, what if you don’t have the opportunity to visit their office in person? No worries. There’s a way to get this permit via mail.

In order to do this, you should send the already completed paper form, 2 signed passport photos, a copy of both sides of the driving license to the neighboring branch. Also, you will need to contact the office in advance to clarify the method of payment.

As mentioned above, after these actions, the accomplishment of your order will last a maximum of 15 business days, and after about 2 days you will receive all the documents back in your hands.

Guides on how to get an International Driving Permit online

Another convenient way to receive an IDP is a perfect option for those who are used to taking benefits from online services because now you can significantly simplify the entire procedure for obtaining this document.

aaa international driving permit

By following the simple steps, you can get the necessary AAA international driving license faster avoiding extra paperwork:

  1. Go to the official website or AAA IDP application, where you will find a special license form.
  2. Fill out the AAA international driving permit form, specifying your personal data, information about your U.S. driver’s license, the type of car you are going to drive with your IDP, as well as address information.
  3. Attach 2 standard-sized photos, signed on the back, and a payment receipt.

As you can see, IDP is the key to a trouble-free trip abroad. Moreover, you don’t need to pass any additional driving exams. Just choose one of the most convenient ways, spend a little time and you will get the desired document that will give you real freedom of movement in more than 175 different countries.

However, don’t forget that the IDP itself is valid for only 1 year, and if you are an avid road traveler, then take care of this issue in advance.

Also, you must be aware of the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) which has been assisting for all those travelers wishing to drive private passenger cars, and other motor vehicles while traveling abroad. So, American Automobile Touring is a good choice whether you are on vacation, going to visit a family or have some business purposes.

Choosing the Right 4×4 Car Rental for Your Outdoor Expedition

Updated 12/14/2023

Car rentals make our life easier, especially in those moments when you can’t use your own transport. If the need for a vehicle due to frequent movement in the city, without transporting passengers, you should pick up a compact city car. This will save the total rental cost and refueling spending. However, in case you are planning a trip on country roads somewhere in the highlands, then 4×4 SUV rental is really what you need.

Table of contents:

What is 4WD or AWD car rental?

Four-wheel or all-wheel drive…For many motorists, these words sound like heavenly music. More than half of novice drivers mistakenly believe that if the technical documentation for a car has the 4WD marking, this car will show excellent acceleration dynamics on the highway, perfectly maneuver on slippery urban asphalt and replace the tractor on a bumpy country road.

The AWD and 4WD systems are widely used not only on SUVs and crossovers – mid-size and compact cars are equipped with this type of drive even in the basic configuration.

The 4WD rental car system is technologically simpler than AWD. Plus, it’s very reliable and cheap. The four-wheel-drive is a four-wheel drive, which is connected at the request of the driver.

The drivers themselves connect four wheels through a button or an additional lever providing 3 modes:

  • 4WD High;
  • 2WD;
  • 4WD Low.

Unlike 4WD, the AWD rental car system is automatic, which saves the driver from having to independently control the characteristics of the road. The on-board computer independently monitors the quality of the surface through a hundred sensors, and preemptively switches the mono drive on both axes as necessary.

AWD is almost never used on SUVs. The main category of the cars, where the automatic all-wheel-drive system is installed includes urban crossovers, hatchbacks, and sedans.

As a result, if you need a 4×4 vehicle rental, then most likely you will find it in the SUVs section. And vice versa – automatic 4 wheel drive car rental can be found in almost any vehicle category.

Where and when is better to use 4×4 rental auto?

In order to find it out, first, you need to understand what is a 4×4 van rental. By and large, this is a regular car, which provides additional space for the driver and passengers, and also has a large carrying capacity. At the same time, it was created for movement on a problematic road surface.

4 wheel drive car rental makes sense in three cases:

  • in off-road conditions;
  • when driving on a snowy surface;
  • when towing.

4x4 car rental

Thanks to an independent suspension of the wheels, such a vehicle manages to maintain a mechanical grip under almost any conditions. However, there are some nuances when using rental car 4WD. The fact is that usually car hire insurance doesn’t cover off-road driving and towing. What’s more, it can entail large sanctions from the company, and even cause you to get blacklisted.

Thus, the only legal reason to use all-wheel-drive car rental is a snow-covered road in mountainous regions, and companies use this fact for profit.

Indeed, for example, to get to the resorts of Colorado or the snowy entertainments of Salt Lake City, you won’t find a better way than 4×4 truck rental. With this vehicle, you will feel comfort and confidence, and as a result, safety while driving.

How to get cheap 4×4 vehicle?

From a general point of view, there are no differences between the process of reserving a cheap 4×4 rental car and any other car. However, the market cost of such cars is one of the most expensive due to the high price of the car itself in relation to mid-size vehicles and minivans. In addition, car rental AWD vehicles are much more expensive to maintain, and their insurance is also more expensive. All these spending form the basis of the rental price.

But how to find cheap 4 wheel drive car rental? Check out the following tips:

  • Book a car in advance

An early reservation is always more profitable than picking up a car on site. Therefore, it makes sense to look for a suitable 4×4 Jeep rental or any other car brand a few weeks before the expected date.

Also, keep in mind that on weekends and during holidays the demand for cars and their price rises, which may even cause a shortage of cars exactly where you need it.

  • Compare similar offers

If the desired rental car 4 wheel drive is available via several suppliers at once, choose the vehicle featuring the most attractive price.

  • Check cars in multiple locations

Imagine that you are going to a ski resort and you need a car. Probably, in the nearest rental point, the price will be higher, because it’s the most convenient in terms of location. In order to find the best price, search for a car in other nearby but less-popular locations.

Some companies hold promotions, which imply receiving additional discounts. This is another key for the best 4WD rental vehicle for snow.

4x4 car rental

What are the risks of 4×4 pickup truck rental?

The use of this kind of rental carries some risks in the event of non-compliance with the contract. If you get caught while driving off-road or towing, then get ready that your CDW insurance will be invalid. This also applies to personal insurance and insurance provided by your credit card provider.

But this is not all – after such a case, you may no longer be able to rent a car at all, since you will be blacklisted by car hire companies.

In order to avoid problems, each renter should know the list of actions that can cancel the insurance. Don’t forget to check the privacy policy of the car rental company you choose!

Long Road Trip Tips For A Seamless Journey!

Are you getting ready for a long trip? What kind of car do you prefer? You may prefer a mid-size vehicle. But it feels like a compact car is not as save as an SUV car. From the other hand, SUVs eat too much gas. There are always so many things to think about before the trip. Our long road trip tips will help to cope with any situation.

Table of contents:

Planning a long road trip across the United States

It can be really great to take a car, full tank of gas, open road, and go into the wind. Your long road trip is a unique way to travel and explore the world at a low cost. It takes no matter whether you are renting an auto or driving your own car, planning goes first. Here are a few essentials you should do before you hit the road.

What to pack for a long road trip?

You should start by listing all the road trip essentials. So, bring medicines, toiletries, some food, and all necessary documents, including your driving license, registration, and a navigation system. Don’t take many clothes as you can always stop along the route and do laundry. Finally, a long road trip packing list wouldn’t be full without books and movies for entertainment, and an emergency kit with the first aid suppliers.

What things to check in my car before a long road trip?

Of course, if you book a rental car instead of driving your own vehicle, your rental agency has already checked everything for you. But it is never too much of a good thing if you check the car condition, scratches, tires, and all the rest that usually causes troubles on a long road tour. Don’t forget about the starting pack for car repairment. 

How to prepare my auto for a long road trip?

Even if you packed all the must haves for a long road trip on the board, you shouldn’t forget to do a basic check of your rental auto before you hold the keys. Check the tire pressure and the mileage! Why don’t you check the windshield wipers, car battery, safety pads, even lights, and signals? Do an inspection! First of all, you are responsible for the car, so it is better to know about all possible problems beforehand to avoid fees and headaches. Secondly, a clean auto also helps to feel more comfortable, doesn’t it? 

How long does the perfect road trip have to be?

What is an ideal road tour for you? There are many long road trip tips you may follow to push your journey close to ideal, but it depends on what you expect from your particular trip. The ideal amount of time you spend on a road depends on where you are driving. But generally speaking, travel for a week would be enough for most destinations.

DO’S and DON’TS on a long road tour

Your long road tour is going to be exciting for the whole family. But riding a car forever and a day can be really boring. Have you a strategy on how to entertain yourself and your family during a day or week-long road trip?

long road trip essentials, long road trip tips

DO’S on a long road trip

The long road trip essentials include:

  1. Play your much-loved tunes

Going crazy on loud music when you are in the driver’s seat can make the time go faster. If you rent an auto with a great sound, it can be a big pleasure to listen to retro tunes or a soundtrack from your favorite films.

  1. Play some movies

Watching movies can be a fun thing to do on a long road trip. You can use your phone, iPad, or DVD player is your car hasn’t built-in screen.

  1. Play classic road games

It can be board games, mini-games, and even portable video games, of course, if you are not on driving. Playing games needs your attention. It is better to focus on driving.

  1. Pack a special bag with books, puzzles, and everything you may need to entertain yourself and your passengers.
                                                                               
  2. Get some sleep

If you feel tired on a long road trip, you may stop the car get some sleep. Having someone, who can drive the car instead of you, use your sleep mask to take some rest even on the go.

4 Things to do on a long road trip with kids

Everything depends on your creativity and what your toddlers like to do, get yet another portion of long road trip tips:

  1. Take some audio books

It can be a great idea for a long road trip. That’s so cool that everyone, including a driver, can listen to adventurous stories together.

  1. Play traveling alphabet

This game is very popular to play with preschoolers on a long road trip. The aim is for each player to finish the sentence using a word that begins with a specific letter.

 

long road trip tips, long road trip essentials, long road trip with toddler

  1. Create a travel bag

It can be a travel backpack or even a LEGO box. Fill the bag with LEGO details or different fun stuff to keep your kids amused on the road.

  1. Play virtual games

The most popular virtual game for young travelers is Hide and Seek. Just try to imagine a place to hide! It’s so fun to hide everywhere no matter what size it is. Of course, it is a virtual game!

How to prepare for a long road tour?

When taking a long road trip don’t forget to plan the route first. Nothing but planning is able to make a long road tour more enjoyable, especially when you travel with the kids and family. Here are the long road trip essentials to remember when listing everything you may need for the tour.

  • Plan carefully

Have you already planned the route? Plan your travel course and the roads you are going to take. Renting an auto for a long road trip, ask for a GPS system or just check the map carefully. That’s the biggie to mark on your map all the places where you can stop for fueling, snacks, and safe resting along the way.

  • Make stops every three hours

It is advised to take short breaks from driving every 2-4 hours. Just stop the car, take some food, use the bathroom, or just relax and stretch your legs for a while. It boosts your energy until the next pit stop.

  • Eat light and drink much water

One of the long road trip food ideas recommends eating snacks and a small portion or healthy food at regular intervals. Forget about tacos and spicy chicken! Fast food and tones of donuts aren’t a good idea on the go. You feel full and uncomfortable. Attention: drink enough water!

  • Call 911 if a car breaks down on a long road trip?

Sure enough, the best thing to do is to avoid a break down on a long road trip. So, check your vehicle before you rent it. But in case of a road accident you need to inspect your auto to find out what is wrong and call your insurance company as well as your rental agency. Check your rental contract and ask for a roadside assistance. It would be great to have another car in replacement when you want to continue your long road tour.

Remember that you are packing for a long trip! Ask for the car inspection all to pieces before you begin driving. Do you see anything suspicious? Ask for another vehicle! We hope all these long road trip tips will help you experience the best traveling in your life!