The United States is a vast country, making it challenging to rely solely on public transportation for travel. Renting a car is essential, especially if you plan to explore beyond city centers and visit natural attractions or national parks. A rental car allows you to travel freely according to your schedule, but understanding the U.S. rental car system and insurance policies is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.
This guide provides a step-by-step process for renting a car in the U.S. and compares five major car rental booking sites, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages.
1. Comparison of the Top 5 U.S. Car Rental Booking Sites
Several car rental booking platforms make it easy to find and reserve a vehicle in the U.S. Here’s a comparison of their key features, pros, and cons.
① Rentalcars.com
• Pros:
• Allows price comparison across multiple rental companies (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, etc.) • Korean language support makes the booking process easier • Free cancellation options available
• Cons:
• Rental conditions vary by company, requiring careful review • Some bookings may incur additional charges at pickup
② Expedia
• Pros:
• Conveniently book flights, hotels, and rental cars together • Provides price comparison among different rental companies • Offers membership discounts
• Cons:
• Cancellation and modification policies differ by rental provider • Base prices often do not include taxes, insurance, or additional fees
③ Hertz
• Pros:
• Extensive locations across the U.S., making airport pickup easy • Vehicles are generally in good condition
• Offers exclusive benefits for Gold Plus Rewards members • Cons:
• Prices tend to be higher than other companies
• High demand during peak seasons may lead to limited availability
④ Enterprise
• Pros:
• Offers a wide selection of vehicles (SUVs, minivans, etc.) • Known for good customer service
• Additional fees for young drivers (ages 21-24) are relatively lower than competitors • Cons:
• Downtown locations often have lower prices than airport locations, requiring careful selection • Base rental rates are slightly higher than some competitors
⑤ Turo (Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing Service)
• Pros:
• Rent privately owned vehicles, offering a variety of unique car options • Often cheaper than traditional rental companies
• Allows vehicle delivery or pickup at preferred locations • Cons:
• Insurance options can be complicated
• Vehicle condition may vary since it’s privately owned • Cancellation and refund policies depend on the individual host
2.Step-by-Step Guide to Renting a Car in the U.S.
① Booking a Rental Car
• Visit a rental booking site like Rentalcars.com, Expedia, Hertz, Enterprise, or Turo • Enter your travel location (airport or city) and rental period • Choose a vehicle type (SUV, sedan, minivan, etc.)
② Selecting Options and Insurance
• Check fuel policies (e.g., full-to-full), additional driver fees, and included services • Decide whether to purchase Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Liability Insurance • Select optional add-ons like GPS or child safety seats if needed
③ Payment and Confirmation
• Complete the reservation and receive a confirmation email or voucher • For Turo rentals, coordinate pickup details directly with the vehicle owner
④ Picking Up the Rental Car in the U.S.
• Go to the airport rental car center or designated pickup location • Present your passport, international driving permit, credit card, and reservation confirmation • Inspect the vehicle and sign the rental agreement before driving away
⑤Returning the Rental Car
• Confirm the return location and time
• Check the fuel policy and refuel accordingly before returning • Inspect the vehicle for any damages and collect the final receipt
Renting a car in the U.S. provides the freedom to travel at your own pace and explore beyond major cities. While various booking sites are available, comparing prices and understanding rental terms are crucial. Rentalcars.com and Expedia offer convenient price comparisons, while Hertz and Enterprise provide reliable services. Turo is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers seeking flexible rental options.
When booking a rental car, carefully consider insurance coverage, and always prepare an international driving permit and a credit card. To avoid unexpected charges, inspect the car thoroughly upon pickup and return. Use this guide to plan a smooth and hassle-free rental experience for your U.S. trip!