Do not assume that just because you have purchased cheap airplane tickets, discount hotel rooms, and reserved cheap auto rentals that you will necessarily be enjoying a value oriented trip. Car rental fees that you may be unaware of could substantially drive up the final cost of your entire trip.
Watch out for the following:
Many car rental companies have instituted mileage caps. Allowed mileage often depends on what part of the country you pick up your car, when you want to pick up the car, and the size of your car. Sometimes it also depends on whether you are renting from a corporate owned or franchise location. If planning a long trip, make certain you are aware of any mileage caps before making a reservation.
Companies are starting to charge mandatory energy surcharges. Budget and Payless refer to this charge as an ERF (Energy Recovery Fee).
Better (as in better coverage) roadside assistance programs are starting to come with fees. Dollars RoadSafe and Nationals Roadside Plus programs sound good but may be an extra cost option.
These days renters wanting to earn free miles through the rental companys participation in an airline loyalty program often have to pay a daily charge, which can run $4.50.
Some car rental firms have started charging renters no show fees which can cost $50, plus taxes and surcharges.
Now changes to your car reservation, particularly when you extend a rental can result in additional charges. Avis charges $10 per day for extensions.
Fully understand any companys toll programs before signing up for them. This option is certainly convenient, but fees are making it costly. Hertz is charging $2.50 per day for PlatePass on top of actual toll charges.
Rental companies have started charging penalties for crossing state lines in violation of their agreement.
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