How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car for Road Trip?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a road trip? One of the most important things to consider is transportation.

While you may have your own car, renting one might be a better option, especially if you’re traveling long distances or need a bigger vehicle. But how much does it cost to rent a car for a road trip? Let’s find out.

Factors that Affect Car Rental Costs

Before we dive into the numbers, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect car rental costs. Here are some of them:

  • Rental duration: The longer you rent a car, the cheaper it is per day.
  • Car type: Luxury cars and SUVs are generally more expensive than economy cars.
  • Extras: Additional features like GPS, child seats, and insurance can increase the rental cost.
  • Season: Car rental prices tend to be higher in peak season (summer months) and lower in off-season (winter months).
  • Location: Renting a car from an airport or popular tourist destination can be more expensive than renting from a local agency.

The Average Cost of Renting a Car for a Road Trip

According to recent data from CheapCarRental.net, the average cost of renting a car for a road trip in the United States is around $50 per day. However, this price can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above.

Rental Duration

As mentioned earlier, rental duration plays an essential role in determining rental costs. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Short-term rentals (1-3 days) can cost anywhere between $30-$90 per day.
  • Mid-term rentals (4-7 days) can cost anywhere between $25-$70 per day.
  • Long-term rentals (8-14 days or more) can cost anywhere between $20-$50 per day.

Car Type

The type of car you rent also affects the rental cost. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Economy cars can cost between $20-$40 per day.
  • Compact cars can cost between $25-$50 per day.
  • Mid-size cars can cost between $30-$60 per day.
  • Full-size cars can cost between $40-$80 per day.
  • SUVs and luxury cars can cost anywhere from $50-$300+ per day.

Extras

If you need additional features like GPS, child seats, or insurance, expect to pay extra. Here’s what you can expect:

  • GPS: $10-$30 per day
  • Child seats: $10-$20 per day
  • Insurance: $15-$30+ per day depending on coverage options

Tips for Saving Money on Car Rentals for Road Trips

Now that we’ve covered the average costs of renting a car for a road trip let’s look at some tips for saving money:

  • Rent from a local agency instead of an airport or popular tourist destination.
  • Avoid renting during peak season and opt for off-season rentals instead.
  • Book in advance to lock in lower rates.
    Note: Booking too early may not be the best option if prices drop closer to your trip date. Keep an eye on prices and book when you find a good deal.
  • Compare prices from different car rental companies to find the best deal.
  • Avoid unnecessary extras and bring your own GPS or child seat if possible.

Conclusion

Renting a car for a road trip can cost anywhere from $20-$300+ per day, depending on several factors. Remember to consider rental duration, car type, extras, season, and location when planning your trip. By following the tips mentioned above, you can save money and make the most out of your road trip experience.