Renting a car is a fairly easy process, but there are some things you should know about using your insurance and the fees and costs you might encounter.
When you rent a car, you’ll have the option to purchase insurance through the car provider. Before you do, check to see if your auto insurance policy covers rental cars. If it does, you won’t have to worry about purchasing insurance. You can also contact your credit card company. Some companies will insure your rental car if you use their card for the purchase. Keep in mind that if you choose insurance through the car provider, the minimum amount of liability coverage is the mandatory amount in most states (though you can always purchase more).
There are several fees and costs that are included in a car rental, so make sure to read through the paperwork thoroughly before you sign.
Additional or Underage Driver fee: These fees may apply if the driver of the car is under a certain age (usually 25) or if you’re going to be sharing your driving time with another person.
Personal Effects Protection: If your homeowner’s insurance policy doesn’t cover your personal effects while you travel, most car providers offer their own insurance to protect them. However, don’t be fooled – check with your credit card policy or insurance policy first so you don’t pay more than you need to.
Mileage policies: While many rental companies will allow you to drive an unlimited number of miles with your rental car, some may have mileage restrictions. These also may apply to special offers. Double-check with your provider before you drive away.
Gas: Your gas costs will vary by car provider – some will charge you an initial fee and then allow you to use what’s already in the car’s gas tank while others require that you return the car with a full tank of gas. Make sure you know which policy your provider enforces.
Drop-Off fee: If you plan on dropping your rental car in a state that’s different from where you rented it, you may be charged a Drop-Off fee (which can be pretty high sometimes).
Airport fee: Because it’s convenient to pick up and drop off your rental car at an airport, you may see an extra fee for doing so. To avoid this, choose an off-site location to pick up and drop off your car.
“Late” fee: If you’re past your designated drop-off time by anywhere between 90 and 120 minutes, your rental car provider may charge you for a full day.
If you’ve left your personal car behind at our EWR Airport parking facility, you can rest easy. Our secure parking lot and caring staff will monitor it every day you’re gone, so you won’t have to worry about damages or break-ins. Just enjoy your trip!
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