The cost of renting a car hinges on many things. The location, time of year, length of the rental, and many other factors play into how rental car companies determine their daily and weekly rates. The following will provide information on the average daily rates an individual would likely pay for specific car classes, as well as some insight into other charges renters usually come across during the rental process.
Average Daily Rates*
• Economy/Compact Vehicles – $25 to $45 per day
• Midsize/Standard Vehicles – $35 to $60 per day
• Full Size/Crossover Vehicles – $45 to $85 per day
• Midsize SUVs – $45 to $65 per day
• Minivans/7 Passenger SUVs – $60 to $90 per day
• Sports Cars/Convertibles – $50 to $100 per day
*Rates provided by Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise
The large gaps in daily prices are due in part to the demand for specific vehicles during certain season of the year. SUVs and other four-wheel drive vehicles are more expensive during winter months, depending on the climate, and sports cars and minivans are more expensive in the summer, due to the increase of vacation renters. Hertz rental car agents have reported that car-class rates change by the day, and even by the hour, so a $35 midsize car rate on Monday can cost $55 the following day.
Other Rental Costs
The majority of rental car companies offer a variety of additional features and services customers can add to their rental contracts. Loss damage waivers and supplemental insurance packages are usually the most expensive services a customer can request, but convenience features like satellite radio and navigation systems can be added at a more reasonable price. Individuals who are under the age of 25 may have to pay an additional liability fee when renting, depending on the rental terms and the company. Rental car companies also offer customers the ability to purchase a full tank of gas upfront, eliminating the need to fill up before returning the vehicle, but this is not always the most cost-effective option.
Savings Suggestions
The rates listed above can be significantly reduced by following a few tips before making a reservation. First, consider using an online travel website when booking a rental car instead of going straight to a specific agency’s homepage. Online travel sites can offer up to 50% off of the rates quoted by rental car agents, and they also allow customers to compare the rates of different companies. Other discounts can apply when customers mention different organizations or clubs they belong to, and many workplaces have discounts with rental car companies that apply even when the rental is not business related. Automotive clubs are known for giving car rental discounts, but even having a frequent shopper’s card at a local supermarket can knock off around 10% of the rental price.
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