Fuel or Electric? Tips for Picking the Right Rental Car (and not getting stuck with the wrong one!)

Renting a car can seem overwhelming, especially with all the different deals, fuel options, and policies rental companies have. Whether you’re on a business trip, vacation, or need a temporary vehicle, here’s a complete guide to help you navigate the best ways to rent a car, get the best deal, and choose the right fuel type for your needs.

It’s A New Landscape

A friend went to Nashville, TN area on vacation and had rented a car from one of the large, main car rental agencies, arranging the rental ahead. When they arrived to get the rental, they were told they were going to be given an electric car. They had planned a trip through the Smoky Mountains and as they discussed their itinerary with the counter person, they realized they would have to stop twice and add almost 2 hours to their trip for charging the car. They said this was unacceptable. No other car was available. Don’t let this happen to you.

On the other hand, you might want an electric car. The point is to not be surprised with an arrangement that might seriously and negatively affect your plans.

1. Start Your Search Early

Renting a car is one of those things where planning early can pay off. Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand, location, and booking times. To increase your chances of getting a good deal:

• Book a few weeks to a month in advance, if possible, especially for popular travel times.
• Use a price comparison tool or aggregator, such as Kayak, Expedia, or AutoSlash, to compare prices across companies and see deals that may not be visible on rental websites.
• Watch for price drops; many booking services allow you to lock in rates without payment upfront, so you can cancel and rebook if prices fall.

2. Leverage Membership Discounts

If you belong to any memberships, such as AAA, AARP, Costco, or even some credit card programs, you can often access substantial discounts on car rentals. In addition:

• Many airlines, hotel rewards programs, and auto clubs offer partnerships with rental car companies, giving you an opportunity for additional savings.
• Some employers have partnerships with rental companies, so it’s worth asking if your company has a corporate rate you can use.

3. Understand the Types of Insurance

Rental insurance is a big upsell for rental companies, but not everyone needs it. Your options generally include:

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Protects against damage to the rental vehicle but can be costly. Check if your credit card offers similar coverage.
• Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses in case of an accident. Many health insurance plans already cover this, so consider if it’s necessary.
• Liability Insurance: This can be valuable if your auto insurance doesn’t cover you in rental cars.

Knowing what your existing policies and credit card cover can save you from paying for unnecessary add-ons.

4. Choose the Right Fuel Type: Gas, Electric, or Hybrid?

As the rental market has evolved, so have the fuel options. You’ll likely have a choice between traditional gas-powered vehicles, hybrids, and electric vehicles (EVs). Here’s a breakdown of each:

• Gas-Powered Cars: These are still the most widely available and typically have longer ranges between fill-ups, making them suitable for long-distance trips or areas without charging stations. However, fuel prices fluctuate, so this might add to your travel costs.
• Hybrids: Offering both fuel efficiency and the convenience of a gas engine, hybrids are often a good middle ground. They’re more economical for city driving and can switch to gas for longer stretches. Rental rates might be slightly higher, but you’ll often save on fuel costs.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): If you’re looking for a clean and eco-friendly option, EVs are a great choice. However, they require charging and can be tricky if you’re in an area with limited charging infrastructure. Rental companies may charge higher rates for EVs due to maintenance costs, but these cars typically come with a “fully charged” policy, so you’ll want to make sure you return it charged to avoid fees.

5. Getting the Best Deal for Your Rental

To maximize savings, keep an eye out for the following tips:

• Use Coupon Codes: A quick online search for promo codes can yield discounts of 10% or more. Some codes also offer free upgrades.
• Skip the Airport Pickup: Airport rental locations often have additional fees. Opt for an off-airport location, if possible, as it may save you a substantial amount.
• Consider Weekly Rates: Sometimes renting for a full week is more economical than a few days. Compare daily versus weekly rates to see if this applies.
• Utilize Rebook Tools: Websites like AutoSlash allow you to rebook a reservation if prices drop, which can be a money-saving trick.

6. Plan Ahead with Electric Vehicle Rentals

Renting an EV can be rewarding but may come with challenges if you’re not in an EV-friendly area. If you’re committed to a gas-powered vehicle but are presented with an EV at pick-up, here’s what you can do:

• Ask to Swap: Request a swap to a gas or hybrid model. Most companies will try to accommodate your preferences, especially if you booked a specific fuel type.
• Be Prepared for Charging: If no alternative is available, familiarize yourself with local charging station locations. Apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint can make this easier.
• Set Charging Expectations: Many companies will provide an EV with a full charge. Clarify if they expect it to be returned fully charged or only at a certain percentage. Check if the rental agency has charging stations on-site for convenience.

7. Understand Additional Fees and Policies

The rental rate isn’t the only cost associated with car rentals. Keep an eye out for extra fees:

• Underage Driver Fees: Drivers under 25 often incur additional daily charges.
• Extra Driver Fees: Some companies charge for additional drivers, though spouses are sometimes excluded.
• One-Way Fees: Dropping the car off in a different location than pickup can cost extra, so check the policy if you plan to travel far.

8. Inspect the Car Thoroughly

Before leaving the lot, inspect the car for any existing damage and report it to the rental agency to avoid being charged later. Take photos or a video, covering all angles, including the interior and exterior.

9. Use Apps for Easy Management

Many rental companies have apps that streamline the booking, pickup, and return process. Using the app, you can often check in ahead of time, track rental details, and sometimes even locate the car if you’re in a large rental center.

10. Returning the Car with the Right Fuel Level

If you’ve rented a gas or hybrid vehicle, consider refueling outside of the airport or car rental location, as rental companies often charge a premium for refueling. Make sure you return the car with the agreed fuel level to avoid extra fees.

11. Handling Electric Vehicle Returns

Returning an EV comes with unique considerations:

• Charging Options: Confirm if there’s an option to charge the vehicle on-site if required.
• Documenting Charge Level: Take note of the battery level upon return. Some companies may have specific requirements for EVs, and documenting the level can protect you from additional charges.

12. Car Rental FAQs

Q: Can I use my credit card for insurance?

A: Many credit cards offer primary or secondary rental insurance, especially for collision damage, but you should confirm the exact coverage with your card issuer.

Q: What happens if I don’t return an EV charged?

A: Some rental companies charge fees for EVs returned below a certain battery level, so check with the rental agency.

Q: Are hybrids more economical for city driving?

A: Yes, hybrids excel in fuel efficiency during stop-and-go driving, making them a great choice for city use.

Q: Do rental companies offer EV charging maps?

A: Most agencies can provide information on nearby charging stations, and apps like PlugShare offer comprehensive maps for easy access.

Q: Is it cheaper to rent a car off-airport?

A: Typically, yes, as airport locations add surcharges that nearby locations often avoid.

Q: Can I rent an electric vehicle without experience driving one?

A: Yes, but rental companies might offer a quick overview to familiarize you with controls and charging options.

The Takeaway

Renting a car doesn’t have to be a complex task. By knowing what you need and understanding the options available, you can find a great rental deal, pick the ideal fuel type, and enjoy a smooth rental experience, no matter where you’re headed.

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