Did you know the car rental market is expected to hit $129.1 billion by 2027? With so many options, finding the right rental platform can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re planning a road trip or a business trip, choosing the right car rental website is key to saving money and avoiding surprises.
In this article, we’ll help you find the most reliable platforms, answer your most common questions, and share tips for getting the best deals. Let’s hit the road, and make sure you’re saving more every mile!
What Is the Most Reliable Car Rental Website?
Reliability is important when choosing a car rental website because it saves you time, money, and headaches. Let’s dive into what makes a car rental website reliable and answer key questions to help you choose the best one.
What Is the Highest-Rated Car Rental?
When it comes to ratings, National Car Rental consistently ranks as the most reliable car rental service. It has been recognized for its exceptional customer service and vehicle quality. National Car Rental was ranked #1 in J.D. Power’s 2024 North American Rental Car Satisfaction Study, scoring 736 out of 1,000, surpassing other major players like Hertz and Avis.
Is Avis or Budget Better?
Both Avis and Budget are owned by the Avis Budget Group, but their target audiences differ.
1. Fleet and Availability
Winner: Avis
Avis has over 5,500 locations in 165 countries and a more comprehensive fleet, especially in luxury vehicles.
Budget operates in 120+ countries with 2,700 locations, offering affordability over size.
2. Rates
Winner: Budget
Budget consistently offers lower prices. For example, a Standard SUV at Tampa International Airport costs $167 with Budget compared to $204 with Avis.
3. Customer Service
Winner: Tie
Both brands score similarly in customer satisfaction, but Avis has perks like car delivery at select locations.
4. Loyalty Programs
Winner: Avis
Avis Preferred includes free upgrades and elite tiers like President’s Club. Budget’s FastBreak speeds up pick-ups but lacks rewards.
Conclusion
Choose Avis for luxury, loyalty perks, and premium service.
Choose Budget for lower rates and basic rentals.
How Far Out Is It Best to Rent a Car?
Booking early is crucial for securing the best rates and availability. According to a 2024 report by Kayak, booking a car rental at least 1-3 months in advance saves up to 25% compared to last-minute reservations. This is especially true during peak travel seasons when demand surges.
Why Are Rental Cars So Hard to Find Right Now?
The global pandemic disrupted car rental fleets, as companies sold off vehicles to survive financially. This created a shortage that lingered into 2024. A report by Infometrics in May 2023 noted that the current rental fleet is approximately 12,000 cars smaller than the pre-pandemic average for a March quarter. Combined with increased travel demand, availability remains tight.
What Is Turo and How Does It Work?
If you’re looking for an alternative, Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform where you can rent cars directly from individual owners.
How It Works:
- Browse cars available in your location.
- Book directly from the owner using the Turo app.
- Pick up the car at the arranged location.
Why It’s Reliable: Turo provides insurance options and reviews for both owners and renters, ensuring transparency and trust.
What Is the Most Ethical Car Rental Company?
When it comes to ethical car rentals, Hertz is often recognized for its efforts in sustainability and corporate responsibility. Named by Ethisphere® as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies of 2020, the company operates over 10,200 corporate and franchisee locations in 150 countries.
Green Initiatives: Hertz has been expanding its electric vehicle (EV) fleet, offering more eco-friendly options to renters. In 2023, the company committed to making 20% of its fleet electric by 2030.
Social Responsibility: Hertz is involved in various philanthropic activities and environmental causes, including partnerships with the National Parks Foundation and other community initiatives.
Which Car Review Site Is Most Reliable?
When researching car rentals, looking at reliable review sites is key to making an informed decision. Trustpilot and Google Reviews are both excellent sources for reviews on car rental services.
For vehicle reviews, Edmunds and Consumer Reports are some of the most trusted sources in the auto industry, providing detailed reviews on car models and rental companies.
Which Car Rental Has the Lowest Rates?
When it comes to saving money on car rentals, it’s not just about the price per day—there are several factors to consider, including deposits, booking duration, and location. Here’s what you need to know to score the best deals:
Which Rental Car Company Has the Lowest Deposit?
The deposit required when renting a car can vary significantly between rental companies, and many customers are looking to minimize this upfront cost. Budget and Thrifty are known for having relatively low deposits compared to other companies. The exact deposit amount will depend on the location and the type of vehicle you’re renting.
Where in the US Are Rental Cars Cheapest?
Car rental prices can differ depending on location, especially in major cities or tourist hotspots. According to a 2024 analysis by NerdWallet, rental car prices have increased by approximately 35% compared to pre-pandemic levels, with average prices across all items rising about 23% during the same period. In terms of regional pricing, Miami has been identified as one of the most affordable cities for car rentals, while Chicago is among the most expensive.
Is Budget Better Than Enterprise?
When comparing Budget and Enterprise, it ultimately comes down to your priorities. Enterprise is often considered a more reliable choice due to its larger fleet and better customer service ratings. In a 2023 J.D. Power survey, Enterprise ranked higher for overall customer satisfaction compared to Budget.
However, Budget often offers better pricing, making it a great option for those looking for a more economical choice. If you’re seeking convenience and top-tier customer service, Enterprise is likely the better option, but for lower costs, Budget takes the lead.
What Is the Best Company to Rent a Car From?
The best car rental company depends on what you prioritize—whether it’s price, service, or vehicle selection.
Is It Cheaper to Rent a Car Longer or Shorter?
Generally, renting a car for a longer period tends to be cheaper per day. Rental car companies offer discounted daily rates for longer rentals, which means you might pay more upfront for a weekly or monthly rental, but the daily cost is often much lower. For example, a 7-day rental might cost $30 per day, while a 3-day rental might cost $40 per day. However, this can vary based on location, demand, and the type of vehicle.
What Is the Most Popular Car Rental Type?
The most popular car rental types are typically compact and economy cars, as they are cheaper to rent, more fuel-efficient, and easier to drive in urban areas. According to Kayak’s 2023 car rental trends, economy cars like the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra are often the most commonly rented vehicles, especially for short trips or solo travelers. For families or larger groups, SUVs and minivans are also popular, though they come with a higher rental cost.
What Is Sixt Share?
Sixt Share is a flexible car-sharing service that enables users to rent cars for short-term use, typically on a minute, hour, or day basis. It’s perfect for those who need a vehicle for a brief period but don’t want the commitment of a traditional rental. Here’s everything you need to know about Sixt Share and other related questions:
Is Sixt Owned by Hertz?
No, Sixt is not owned by Hertz. Sixt SE is a German multinational car rental company, founded in 1912 by Martin Sixt, and it remains an independent entity. In contrast, Hertz Global Holdings, which operates the Hertz and Thrifty brands, is an American company with separate ownership.
Is Thrifty Now Called Sixt?
No, Thrifty is not called Sixt. However, there has been some confusion because Sixt expanded into the U.S. market and now operates in some locations alongside Thrifty. Sixt and Thrifty are two separate companies; Sixt offers both traditional car rentals and a car-sharing service, while Thrifty is part of the Hertz family and focuses on affordable rentals.
Does Sixt Charge Extra Fees?
Sixt does charge additional fees, depending on the rental agreement. Common extra fees may include:
- Extra mileage fees if you exceed the agreed-upon mileage limit.
- Late return fees if the vehicle is returned later than scheduled.
- Insurance costs that are not included in the base price.
- One-way drop-off fees if the vehicle is returned to a different location. To avoid surprises, it’s essential to check the terms and conditions at the time of booking.
Who Is Behind Sixt?
Sixt is privately owned and led by the Sixt family. The company is still run by Erich Sixt, the CEO, who has helped expand the business globally, including into markets like the United States, where it operates car rentals, car-sharing services, and even electric vehicle options.
How Is Sixt Pronounced?
Sixt is pronounced like “six-t,” rhyming with “fixed.” The name originates from its German roots and is still used worldwide under that pronunciation.
What Is the Alternative to Sixt?
There are several alternatives to Sixt, including:
- Turo: A peer-to-peer car-sharing service that allows individuals to rent out their cars to others.
- Zipcar: A popular car-sharing service with a wide range of vehicles available for short-term rental.
- Enterprise CarShare: Another popular option for short-term rentals that operates in a similar way to Sixt Share.
What Is Turo and How Does It Work?
Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform that allows people to rent their personal vehicles to others. It’s often referred to as the “Airbnb of cars.” Turo offers a wide variety of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury models, and is available in various locations across the U.S. and internationally. The process is simple: renters search for a car based on location, availability, and type, book it through the platform, and pick it up directly from the owner.
Can You Rent a Car with a Debit Card?
Yes, it is possible to rent a car with a debit card, but policies vary by company. Many car rental agencies require a credit card for reservations to ensure the security deposit is covered. However, Sixt, for example, allows debit card rentals, though some restrictions may apply, such as requiring proof of a return flight or an additional deposit.
What Is the Best Company to Rent a Car From?
The best company to rent a car from depends on your needs, but some of the most highly rated options include: Enterprise, National, Sixt, Hertz, etc.
Who Owns Alamo Car Rental?
Alamo Car Rental is owned by Enterprise Holdings, which also owns Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental, and CarShare. Enterprise Holdings is a privately held, family-owned business and is the largest car rental company in the world.
What Is Manager’s Special at Hertz?
With Manager’s Special, you’ll pay the rate for an Economy car, but the rental location will pick the vehicle for you. You could receive anything from an Economy car, Mid-size car, Minivan, or even an SUV, depending on availability.
Key Features:
- Rates equal to an Economy car, but with the possibility of a larger vehicle.
- The pick-up location determines which vehicle you will get at the time of pick-up, giving you a bit of mystery but also flexibility.
- Guaranteed seating for at least 4 passengers and room for 2 or more pieces of luggage, making it a convenient choice for small groups or families.
- This deal also includes electric vehicles, allowing you to rent a more eco-friendly option.
What Is Manager’s Choice?
Manager’s Choice is similar to the Manager’s Special, but it typically offers customers a better selection of vehicles. In this program, the rental car manager selects a car from a higher category (like an SUV or luxury vehicle) based on availability. It’s an option that often provides significant value for customers who are flexible with the type of car they rent.
What Is Hertz Code 2007815?
The Hertz code 2007815 is often used by employees or members of certain groups to access special rates or discounts when booking a car rental. These codes are usually linked to corporate or membership benefits, such as travel programs or loyalty memberships.
What Is the Hertz Code 15729997?
Similar to the Hertz code 2007815, Hertz code 15729997 is likely a special promotional or corporate code that provides a discount or exclusive rate for certain groups of renters.
What Is the Age Limit for Senior Rental Cars in the US?
In the U.S., there is typically no specific age limit for renting a car as a senior, but renters over the age of 65 may face additional requirements or fees. Many rental companies, including Hertz, offer senior discounts, though rental policies vary depending on location. It’s essential for senior renters to check the terms and conditions for age-specific discounts or fees that may apply.
How Do You Get President’s Circle at Hertz?
To become a President’s Circle member at Hertz, you need to be a part of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and meet specific rental requirements, typically by completing a certain number of rentals or reaching a specific spending threshold. This elite status gives members a range of benefits, including:
- Faster service at the rental counter
- Upgraded vehicles (subject to availability)
- Access to exclusive promotions and offers
- Priority customer service
What Is the Highest Tier for Hertz?
The highest tier for Hertz’s loyalty program is President’s Circle. It offers the most exclusive benefits for frequent renters, including vehicle upgrades, priority service, and access to special promotions. Hertz also has a Five Star tier, which is a level below President’s Circle, but still offers valuable perks such as priority vehicle selection and upgrades.
What Does Gold Member Mean at Hertz?
Being a Gold Member at Hertz means you are part of their Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program, which offers various perks like:
- Faster rentals by skipping the counter at many locations.
- Guaranteed car availability for certain types of vehicles.
- Exclusive discounts and deals. Gold Members also get priority service, vehicle upgrades (subject to availability), and access to special offers.
How Do You Avoid the Counter at Hertz?
To avoid the counter at Hertz, you need to be a member of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. Gold members can simply go straight to the designated Gold area at participating locations, pick up their pre-selected vehicle, and leave without waiting in line. This convenience is one of the main perks of the program.
Does Hertz Take AARP?
Yes, Hertz accepts AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) membership for discounts. Members of AARP can enjoy exclusive rates and discounts on car rentals, including special offers for senior travelers.
What Is Hertz’s Ultimate Choice?
Hertz Ultimate Choice allows customers to choose from a variety of vehicles at the time of rental. Instead of waiting in line or selecting a car at random, customers can browse and pick the exact car they want from a designated selection at the Hertz location. This service offers flexibility and control over the rental experience.
What Is a Mystery Car at Budget?
A Mystery Car at Budget is similar to a Manager’s Special at Hertz. It’s a type of deal where you choose a car category (like standard, full-size, or compact), but you don’t know the exact make or model of the car you’ll receive. This option is typically available at a lower price, providing budget-conscious customers with a good deal, while the rental company can assign available vehicles based on inventory.
Conclusion
With so many car rental website options available, choosing a platform that aligns with your needs, whether it’s affordability, reliability, or customer service is important. Booking early, exploring loyalty perks, and comparing rates can help you save money and ensure a smooth experience. Whatever your choice, the key is finding the right fit for your trip and enjoying a stress-free ride. Safe travels!
