Car Rentals
Renting a car is a simple process that allows you the freedom of getting around to wherever you need to go. Whether you are planning a long-distance road trip or a weekend business trip, having a car is sometimes necessary. With the numerous rental car companies in existence with a wide variety of models and makes available you are sure to find a vehicle suitable for your travels.
Popular Rental Companies and Age Policies
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There is a general policy that doesn't rent to anyone under 25 years old though renters between the ages of 21-24 may be able to rent a car if they're using a corporate account.
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There is a minimum age of 21 for most locations. For drivers 21-24, the surcharge is $25 per day.
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Budget will rent to drivers under 25 that have a valid credit card but only in certain locations. You must be at least 21 and pay a surcharge.
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Enterprise will rent to drivers under 25 for a surcharge, but will not rent to anyone under 21 in most locations.
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There is a 21-year-old minimum. There is an "Age Differential Charge" for those 21-24.
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National will rent to anyone older than 21, with a surcharge for drivers between 21-24.
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What to Consider Before Making Reservations
After you have done your research and you've decided upon a rental company that suits your needs, the next step is to choose the type or class of car you want to rent before you can make your reservation. Keep these things in mind while making your decision.
- What is the nature of your trip? Will you be doing long or short-distance driving? Research what the roads are like where you're traveling; are they narrow, cobblestone streets with not much room for big SUV
parking? This will help you to determine what type of car to rent.
- How many people will be riding with you? You want to make sure you and your passengers have sufficient room and will be comfortable
- How much baggage will you be traveling with? You need to make sure there will be enough space for your luggage through the end of your trip.
- Are you totally green? Many rental car companies now have entire fuel-efficient fleets dedicated to helping to keep the environment cleaner.
- Are you directionally inept? If you have a hard time reading maps and hate pulling into the gas station for directions every few miles, see if your rental is equipped with a GPS system for much-needed assistance.
- For how long will you need the vehicle? Depending on the length of your trip there may be rental deals allowing you to save on your reservation
Standard Car Classes and Types
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Economy 2-4 doors, seats 4-5 passengers, holds up to 3 small suitcases. |
Compact 2-4 doors, seats 4-5 passengers,holds up to 3 regular-size suitcases. |
Full-size/ Standard Usually 4 doors, seats 4-5 passengers, holds up to 4-5 suitcases. |
Premium/ Luxury 2-4 doors, seats 4-5 passengers, holds up to 4-5 suitcases, extra features. |
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Convertible Hard or soft top, 2-4 doors, seats 4-5 passengers, holds up to 3 suitcases. |
Minivan seats 7-15, holds up to 8-10 suitcases. |
Mid-size/ Standard/ Luxury SUV 2WD, 4WD, AWD, and All-Terrain vehicles, 2-4 doors, seats 5-7 passengers, holds up to 4 suitcases. |
Hybrid Vehicles Hybrids are fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly and come in a range of sizes/ makes. |
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