Understanding all fees involved in renting a vehicle is essential. These fees could include cancellation fees, underage driver fees and Air conditioner surcharges. It's also important to understand what the maximum dollar value of each fee is. This is an important step when comparing rental car prices.
Underage driver fees
Smart planning can help you avoid paying underage driver fees while renting a car. Many car rental companies offer special programs that permit underage drivers to drive free of charge or at a reduced rate. There are car rental companies that waive fees for military personnel and their families.
To avoid fees for underage drivers, you can also use apps like Kyte. You can choose a car, add extras and see the estimated cost on your screen. Some car rental companies will only charge drivers under 25 if they are Carla members. Hertz will rent you a car for those under 25.
Cancellation fees
There are different cancellation fees depending on where you live and what company you're renting from. If you do not cancel your reservation within 24 hours of the rental beginning, you could be charged $200. However, it is best to understand the cancellation policy before making your reservation. Also, be aware that there may be additional charges if you book online. Remember that cancellation fees vary depending upon where you are renting the car.
If you have made a reservation with a credit card, you can avoid the cancellation fee. You can also rent a car without a creditcard if you cannot pay in advance. If you cancel last-minute or fail to show up for your reservation, however, you could be charged a fee. This is why it's important to cancel your rental car reservation well in advance.
Air conditioner surcharge
Rent a car company may add an air conditioner surcharge to its rental car fees. The rental rate is not affected by the fee and it cannot be added onto the rent at lease renewal. You can find the Operational Bulletin if you aren't sure if this is permitted. This bulletin provides information about the surcharges and the rules.
These fees are to be used to cover the additional costs that a rental agency must incur to maintain and upgrade its facilities. These fees also offset rising costs for energy and parking at specific locations. Additionally, the rental car companies pay federal excise tax on air conditioning to customers.
Insurance coverage options
Check with your car insurer about rental car coverage if you are planning on renting a car while you travel. Most policies cover rental car fees up to a certain dollar amount per day, but some may only cover up to a certain number of days or dollars. The daily amount covers the rental rate and tax. Other insurance policies might cover rental car fees of up to $1200. Enterprise and other rental companies offer insurance partners special rates.
The insurance coverage that they offer may be available if you rent with your credit card. Major credit card issuers provide rental car insurance when you use that card to pay. Although this coverage is sufficient for short-term rentals, the rental company will offer a damage waiver. Many credit card policies do not cover rental cars beyond a set period of time. You may not be eligible for rental cars in certain models or countries.