Why fly when you can drive?
The beauty of living in America is you can drive across almost every state. That’s why 53% of American families load up their cars and embark on road trips every year.
But before you can hit the open road, you need to know how to get the best car for road trips. What should you take into consideration when renting road trip vehicles? We outlined the top three factors below.
- Your Budget
Road trips with friends and family are exciting, but you need to make sure they don’t drain your savings account.
Budget for your upcoming adventure by creating an estimate of how much your rental car will cost. Most rental agencies price per day. If you want insurance (which is recommended), don’t forget to factor that into your total cost.
The type of vehicle you rent is going to impact the price you pay. Compact vehicles are cheaper than SUVs. If you want the latest car features included, like Sirius Radio and WiFi, expect to pay a higher fee.
Who drives your vehicle also affects the price of your rental. Additional drivers equal higher daily fees. Younger drivers, usually under 25, can also raise the price of your rental.
- Quality of the Car
Before buckling in and driving cross country, ensure you are equipped with a high-quality vehicle. You want a car that can handle hours on the road as well as the terrain you are heading toward.
For example, if you are making your way from Florida to Colorado in February, pick a vehicle that can handle snow-covered roads. If you are embarking on a cross-country trip, select a vehicle with decent gas mileage.
Do some research on the best car for road trips, and don’t be afraid to get specific. Try googling, “How long do Honda Accords last?” or ask your car enthusiast friends if they recommend a Subaru or a Ford for a long haul.
Gather information from reliable sources that are not the rental dealership so you can get unbiased answers.
- Where You Rent From
Plan ahead to determine the most cost-effective place to rent road trip vehicles. Convenience equals a higher cost. That’s why the average airport car rental dealerships are more expensive than off-site ones.
Choose a credible dealership. Look up reviews from previous customers and make sure you are doing business with a reliable company.
Keep transparency in mind when finding a rental company. Work with a dealer who will give you a quote that they will adhere to. Look out for hidden fees and mileage restrictions.
Picking the Best Car for Road Trips & More Auto Advice
Picking the best car for road trips is tricky, but not when you take your time.
Create a car rental budget, choose your dealership carefully, and select a trustworthy vehicle. If you follow these tips, you shouldn’t have any issues traveling across the country.
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