Dont let the joy you felt when you found cheap airplane tickets, cheap auto rentals, and discount hotel rooms be spoiled by unanticipated car rental fees. The car rental industry appears to be the one industry trying to be more inventive than the airlines when it comes to charging fees.
The following are some typical car rental fees that you should be aware of before your trip and plan accordingly:
Many rental companies charge travelers for returning cars early. It is not uncommon for a company to reset your weekly rate to a higher daily rate if you dont keep the car the entire week. Before considering returning a car early, find out how much it will cost you.
Surcharges of $20 or more per day are common for renters under the age of 25. Travelers under the age of 21 often find it impossible to rent a car. There are a few companies, such as Enterprise and Thrifty, who typically offer more flexible policies for young drivers.
Daily surcharges of between $10 and $12 are usually added for a second driver.
Be prepared to pay if you need a car seat when you rent your car. Depending on how long you are renting, you may find it cheaper to purchase an inexpensive car seat.
Be careful when selecting the size of car you wish to rent. These days what many rental companies classify as midsize cars you would describe as compact cars.
Many companies are now charging a refueling fee if a car is driven less than 75 miles. Companies are afraid that gas has been used but the gas gauge may not reflect that use. The only way to avoid this fee is to have a receipt showing you refilled the gas tank.
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