1. You Have More Opportunities to Drive “Off the Beaten Path”
You wouldn’t go off-roading in a passenger sedan. To do so might risk your own and your passengers’ safety, as well as the condition of your car. But you can rent a Jeep and go off-road with ease. Of course, even if you rent an off-road vehicle, you should make sure you are legally allowed to drive the car in off-road conditions.
“Read your rental agreement carefully as you may not be allowed to drive your rental car in certain conditions (e.g., off road) or cross international borders,” says Tom Temple. “You should also check you have adequate
insurance and road-side assistance included in case something goes wrong.”
2. You Can Choose the Right Fit
Whenever you vacation in a car, space is at a premium. Renting a car means that you can choose a vehicle that is the right size for your needs. This is especially handy if you’re traveling with family or friends—and their luggage. You can rent a car that has a roomy enough trunk or storage area to keep your luggage out of the way and your valuables out of sight. (You might be on vacation but thieves are not.)
3. You Can Mix and Match Vehicles As You Travel
If you’re stopping in several different locations, renting a car allows you to change your transportation to suit your immediate needs. For example, you may want a four-wheel drive vehicle when traveling through the rugged terrain in Mesa, Arizona. But once you arrive in Phoenix, you may want to swap the off-road vehicle for a city-friendly car.
If you’re traveling with others for one leg of your trip, renting allows you to trade in a car that’s right for two people for one that accommodates more. Travel writer
Dan Bagby recommends splitting rental costs if traveling with others.
4. You Can Seek Out the Best Rental Car Companies for Your Specific Needs
Yes, you can choose one rental car company and stick with it at the various locales you visit. But don’t feel obligated to do so. “Compare a few different car rental companies to find the one that suits your needs on vacation (and your budget!),” says Katherine Temple.” For example, you can take advantage of
AARP rental car discounts with a valid membership.
Different companies offer different types of cars, too. Hertz offers their
Green Traveler Collection, which consists of hybrid cars known for their high fuel efficiency.
It’s also important to hire a car from a reputable company. There are many well-respected companies, of course, but don’t avoid independent or online providers – as long as you do your research!
5. You Can Enjoy Technology You May Not Have
The Temples enjoy trying the new technology available in the different cars they rent. Megan MacNee, founder and editor of Traveling Nine to Fiver, praises satellite radio in rental cars. “[That’s a] saving grace when driving and you don’t have very many radio stations to choose from and don’t have to change every time you drive through a new area,” she says.
