Are you planning a long-distance adventure? If so, you are in the right place. We know that renting a car for a long journey is a great way to explore new places while enjoying the freedom to travel at your own pace. But let’s be honest! Finding the best car rentals for long-distance travel is stressful.
But there is no need to worry! We are here to show you the best rental companies and how to choose the best car for you.
Best Car Rental Companies for Long-Distance Travel
When you pick a car rental company, you should look for a balance of affordable prices and excellent customer service. So, here are some top-rated options for 2025:
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car
First in our list is Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Enterprise is a company best known for its excellent customer service and wide selection of cars. They offer unlimited mileage on most rentals, which is perfect for long-distance travel.
Pros:
- Unlimited mileage on most cars
- Excellent customer support
- Locations in many cities and airports
Cons:
- Can be pricier than budget rental companies
- Some locations have limited vehicle options
2. Hertz
Next in our list is Hertz. Hertz is another well-known rental company with great long-distance options. Their cars are well-maintained, and they often have deals for extended rentals.
Pros:
- Large selection of cars
- One-way rentals available
- Hertz Gold Plus Rewards for frequent renters
Cons:
- Can have high extra fees
- Limited availability in smaller cities
3. SIXT Rent a Car
SIXT is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a premium experience at a good price. They offer luxury, SUVs, and economy cars, making them a flexible option for any type of road trip.
Pros:
- High-quality vehicles
- Competitive pricing
- Available in many countries
Cons:
- Some rental agreements have strict mileage limits
4. Alamo Rent A Car
Alamo is another great place for budget-conscious travelers. They often have lower rates and excellent deals on long-term rentals.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly options
- Self-service kiosks for easy pickup
- Great for one-way rentals
Cons:
- Fewer luxury car options
- Some locations have lower-quality vehicles
5. Turo (Peer-to-Peer Car Rental)
If you want something different, Turo lets you rent cars directly from owners. It means that you can find unique cars, including Tesla, Jeep Wranglers, and classic road trip cars.
Pros:
- More variety in car choices
- Often cheaper than traditional rentals
- No long lines at rental counters
Cons:
- Insurance can be tricky
- Availability depends on your location
How to Choose the Right Rental Car?
You probably know how important picking the right car for long-distance travel is. You want something comfortable, fuel-efficient, and reliable. And here are some other things to keep in mind:
- Fuel Efficiency is Super Important
Long drives mean that you are going to spend lots of fuel. And that’s why choosing a fuel-efficient car can save you money. So, consider hybrid or economy cars if you want to keep fuel costs low.
- Keep Comfort in Mind
If you’ll be spending hours on the road, you’ll want a comfortable ride. So, look for cars with plenty of legroom, comfortable seats, good air conditioning and heating, cruise control for easy driving etc.
- Think About the Space
Are you traveling solo or with family? If you have a lot of luggage, a sedan might not be enough. SUVs and minivans are great for carrying extra bags, camping gear, or sports equipment.
- Automatic vs. Manual Transmission
Most rental cars come with automatic transmission, but if you’re traveling internationally, some places still offer manual cars. Make sure you choose the one you’re comfortable driving.
How to Save Money When Renting a Car
We all know that renting a car for long-distance travel can get expensive. So, here are some tips to keep your budget in check:
- Book Early
Rental prices increase as your travel date gets closer. And that is why booking early can save you up to 30% on your rental.
- Check for Discounts
Look for deals through AAA or AARP membership, credit card perks or travel websites like Expedia or Kayak.
- Avoid Extra Insurance (If You Don’t Need It)
Your personal car insurance or credit card might already cover rental cars. Check before paying for expensive rental insurance.
- Stick to One Driver
Adding an extra driver can cost more. If possible, stick to one driver to save money.
- Return the Car with a Full Tank
Some rental companies charge high fees for refueling. Always fill up the tank before returning the car.
Car Rental Insurance: What You Actually Need to Know
Let’s face it, rental car insurance can be a bit of a headache, but it’s important to understand what’s covered before you hit the road. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common options you’ll come across:
What’s Typically Offered:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This one’s probably the most common. It covers any damage to the rental car in case of an accident, but keep in mind, it’s not always included in the price, and some companies will offer it as an add-on.
- Liability Insurance: This helps protect you if you’re responsible for damage to someone else’s property or injury. Some states require this, so make sure you’ve got it before you drive off.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): This helps cover medical costs if you or anyone in the car is hurt during the trip. If you’re not already covered by your health insurance, this might be a good option.
- Roadside Assistance: Breakdowns happen, and it’s always nice to know you’ve got backup if your rental car decides to have a bad day. This covers things like flat tires, dead batteries, and other unexpected hiccups on the road.
Do You Really Need All This Insurance?
Before jumping on any of these, it’s worth checking with your own car insurance or credit card provider. A lot of the time, your personal coverage might already include rental cars, so you won’t need to pay extra for it. Just make sure you know exactly what’s covered.
How to Make Your Road Trips Fun?
Long road trips can be tiring, but they should also be fun! Here are some tips to make the journey better:
- Pack Smart
– Bring snacks, water, and a first-aid kit.
– Have a phone charger and GPS ready.
– Keep a small pillow and blanket for naps.
- Make a Playlist
Create a road trip playlist with your favorite songs to keep the energy up.
- Take Breaks
Driving long hours can be exhausting. Stop every 2-3 hours to stretch and refresh.
How to Prepare For an Emergency?
And finally, nobody wants car trouble on a road trip, but it’s best to be prepared. So make sure you have roadside assistance contact info ready. Also, carry a spare tire and know how to change it. And keep an emergency kit with flashlights and basic tools.
Ready to Book Your Car Rental for long-distance travel?
Let’s make this trip happen together! Don’t wait until the last minute—book your rental now and travel stress-free. Take a minute, find the perfect ride, and get ready for an unforgettable journey. Safe travels and happy driving!
