Rev Up Your Knowledge of Car Rental With Our Quiz

Rural areas, particularly around national parks, usually lack public transit and rideshare options, making car rental the only real choice. Urban areas, by contrast, often have easier and cheaper public transportation.

Third-party platforms maintain large global inventories, allowing customers to compare various companies side-by-side, which can lead to competitive pricing and extra perks.

Prepaying can lock you into a rate, which prevents you from rebooking if prices drop. If you reserve without paying up front, you’re free to get that lower rate, as long as you didn’t choose a no-cancellation option.

Airport locations often charge steep surcharges and facility fees. You might save 20 percent or more by renting at nearby neighborhood offices that avoid these airport-specific charges.

Photographing or filming the car inside and out to record scratches, dings or other issues protects renters from responsibility for damage they didn’t cause.