Renting a car is often the most convenient way to get around during a self-drive vacation or business trip in the United States. When it comes to car rentals in the US, three companies dominate the market: Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise. These giants boast extensive networks across the globe, high service standards, and massive fleets that set the industry benchmark. Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or just need a short-term vehicle for local errands, understanding the pros and cons of these top players—along with smart money-saving tips—is essential for getting the best deal and experience. This comprehensive 2026 guide compares Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise in detail, helping you make an informed choice based on your needs, while sharing the latest strategies to cut costs on US car rentals.
Hertz — Overview
Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. is one of the most recognized and longstanding car rental brands in the world, with a history stretching back over a century. It operates the primary Hertz brand, as well as other rental brands like Dollar, Thrifty, and Firefly, serving millions of customers annually.
Key Facts
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🌍 Global Reach: Hertz has more than 11,000 locations in 160 countries, making it one of the most accessible car rental companies worldwide.
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🚗 Large Fleet: Its fleet spans hundreds of thousands of vehicles, ranging from budget cars and SUVs to premium and specialty vehicles.
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🏆 Industry Legacy: The company is a pioneer in the rental industry and has introduced many first‑of‑its‑kind services over its history.
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📍 Airport Focus: Hertz is especially strong at airport rental locations, often ranking as the largest airport car rental provider in the U.S. and many international markets.
Why Travelers Choose Hertz
Pros:
✔️ Extensive global network — ideal for international travelers and frequent flyers.
✔️ Diverse fleet selection — from economy to luxury and specialty “Dream Cars.”
✔️ Hertz Gold Plus Rewards — a popular loyalty program with perks like faster pickups, free rental days, and upgrades.
✔️ Innovative services historically offered — such as early GPS systems and eco‑friendly fleet categories.
✔️ Convenient airport terminals — Hertz locations are often well‑integrated into major U.S. airports.
Potential Drawbacks & Considerations
Cons:
⚠️ Variable customer service experience: Recent customer reviews and reports indicate some frustrations with service responsiveness and administrative hassles. (Note: this can vary widely by location.)
⚠️ Additional fees: Like many rental companies, Hertz may add fees for insurance coverages, fuel options, and certain loyalty or benefit add‑ons — renters should read agreements closely.
⚠️ Recent business and operational challenges: In recent years, Hertz has navigated financial volatility, including bankruptcy restructuring and shifts in fleet strategy. However, the company continues to operate broadly and serve renters globally.
Pickup Methods:
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Standard Counter Pickup: Head to the Hertz counter with your driver's license, passport (for international renters), and reservation details to complete paperwork and get your keys.
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Gold Plus Rewards Fast Lane: Members who provide info in advance can skip the counter—check electronic boards for your parking spot, grab keys from the car or Gold area, and drive off. Some locations offer Gold Choice for selecting from available vehicles in your class.
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Self-Service Kiosk: Available at larger spots for quick contract printing and key retrieval.
Avis — Overview
Avis Car Rental is a globally recognized rental brand known for its focus on efficiency, consistency, and value, especially among business and frequent travelers. Founded in 1946, Avis has built a strong reputation by offering reliable vehicles, competitive pricing, and a streamlined rental experience across major airports and urban centers.
Key Facts
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🌍 Global Presence: Operates in 165+ countries, with a strong footprint in the United States and Europe.
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✈️ Airport-Focused Network: Avis locations are concentrated at major airports, making it a convenient choice for fly-and-drive trips.
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🚗 Fleet Profile: Primarily modern economy, midsize, and SUV vehicles, with limited premium and specialty options.
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⭐ Avis Preferred Program: Loyalty members enjoy expedited pickups, priority service, and occasional upgrades.
Why Travelers Choose Hertz
Pros:
✔️ Balanced Pricing: Generally cheaper than Hertz while offering more consistency than many budget brands.
✔️ Strong Airport Presence: Widely available at major U.S. airports and international hubs.
✔️ Avis Preferred Loyalty Program: Faster pickups, priority service, and occasional free upgrades for members.
✔️ Frequent Discounts & Promo Codes: Corporate rates, credit card partnerships, and seasonal deals can significantly reduce costs.
✔️ Reliable, Modern Fleet: Well-maintained sedans, SUVs, and standard vehicle classes suitable for most travelers.
Potential Drawbacks & Considerations
Cons:
⚠️ Limited Neighborhood Locations: Fewer off-airport branches compared with Enterprise.
⚠️ Smaller Luxury Selection: Premium and specialty vehicles are more limited than at Hertz.
⚠️ Add-On Fees: Insurance, fuel plans, and extras can increase the final price quickly.
⚠️ Inconsistent Service by Location: Customer experience may vary depending on the airport or city.
Pickup Methods:
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Standard Counter Pickup: Similar to Hertz—present documents at the counter to finalize.
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Avis Preferred Fast Track: Members with pre-saved info can go straight to the car via electronic boards or the app. Keys are often inside the vehicle.
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Mobile App Check-In: Use the app for pre-arrival check-in and faster access.
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Self-Service Kiosk: Available at select locations.
Enterprise — Overview
Enterprise Rent-A-Car is the largest car rental company in the United States by location count and is best known for its exceptional customer service and extensive neighborhood presence. Founded in 1957, Enterprise has built its reputation around flexibility, affordability, and local convenience — not just airport rentals.
Key Facts
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📍 Largest U.S. Network: Thousands of neighborhood and airport locations across all 50 states.
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🚗 Fleet Focus: Economy, midsize, SUVs, and family-friendly vehicles; fewer luxury or exotic options.
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🤝 Customer Service Reputation: Consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction among U.S. rental companies.
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🌍 International Presence: Strong in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, but smaller global footprint than Hertz or Avis.
Why Travelers Choose Hertz
Pros:
✔️ Extensive Neighborhood Network: The largest off-airport presence in the U.S., ideal for local and last-minute rentals.
✔️ Excellent Customer Service: Frequently ranks highest in customer satisfaction among major U.S. rental brands.
✔️ Competitive Pricing: Often cheaper than Hertz and Avis, especially for daily and weekly rentals.
✔️ Flexible Policies: More accommodating with changes, extensions, and one-way rentals within the U.S.
✔️ Good for Long-Term Rentals: Weekly and monthly rates are usually very competitive.
Potential Drawbacks & Considerations
Cons:
⚠️ Smaller Global Footprint: Less convenient for international travelers compared with Hertz or Avis.
⚠️ Limited Luxury & Specialty Vehicles: Fewer premium, exotic, or high-performance options.
⚠️ Airport Experience Can Be Slower: Airport locations may lack the speed and automation of Hertz or Avis.
⚠️ Vehicle Condition Varies by Location: Neighborhood branches may have older fleets or limited availability.
Pickup Methods:
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Standard Counter Pickup: Emphasizes personal interaction—complete everything at the counter.
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Enterprise Plus Membership: Accumulate points, but typically requires counter visit; enjoy faster service or dedicated lines.
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Free Pickup Service: A standout feature—call for a ride from your location (e.g., hotel) to the rental office.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Hertz | Avis | Enterprise |
| Best For | International & Speed | Business Travelers | Local & Customer Service |
| Loyalty Program | Gold Plus Rewards | Avis Preferred | Enterprise Plus |
| Airport Perks | Ultimate Choice: Pick any car in your zone. | QuickPass: Faster digital check-in. | Curbside: Extensive airport shuttle network. |
| Fleet Focus | High-end, newer models (60% < 1 yr). | Reliable sedans & premium SUVs. | Largest global fleet; most variety. |
| Innovation | AI Damage Scanning (UVeye). | Digital keys & app-heavy focus. | "Neighborhood" focus (pick-up service). |
| Status Match | Very flexible (Amex/Capital One). | Targeted (Visa Infinite/Mastercard). | Selective; usually requires status. |
Key Differentiators
Hertz: The "Speed" King
Hertz is currently the industry leader in frictionless pick-up. Their "Ultimate Choice" program is more widespread than similar offerings from Avis or Enterprise, allowing Gold members to bypass the counter and pick any car from a designated row without even speaking to an agent.
Avis: The "Reliable" Alternate
Avis is often the go-to for corporate travelers who have specific contract rates. While their loyalty program is slightly less flexible than Hertz, their Avis Preferred Plus tier offers highly consistent one-class upgrades and a robust app that makes modifying reservations mid-trip very simple.
Enterprise: The "Service" Leader
Enterprise consistently wins J.D. Power awards for customer satisfaction. They are the best choice for local rentals (non-airport), as they have thousands of neighborhood locations and their famous "We'll pick you up" service. Their points also have a longer shelf life—expiring only after 3 years of inactivity.
Which one should you choose?
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Choose Hertz if: You have a premium credit card (like Amex Platinum) that gives you instant President's Circle status and you want to get out of the airport as fast as possible.
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Choose Avis if: You are a business traveler with a corporate discount or you prefer a very modern, app-driven rental experience.
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Choose Enterprise if: You are renting away from an airport, need a specific type of vehicle (like a large van or truck), or prioritize high-touch customer service.
Pricing & Hidden Fees Explained (Very Important)
When renting a car in the U.S., the base price you see online is rarely the final price. Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise all use similar pricing structures, but hidden fees and optional add-ons can easily increase your total cost by 30–70% if you’re not careful.
1. Base Rate vs Final Price
The advertised daily rate usually does NOT include:
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Taxes (varies by state and city)
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Airport concession fees
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Vehicle licensing & registration fees
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Optional insurance and add-ons
👉 Always click through to the final checkout page to see the real price.
2. Airport Concession Fees
If you rent at an airport, expect extra charges:
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Airport concession fee: ~10–15% of the rental cost
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Customer facility charge: $4–$10 per day (varies by airport)
💡 Money-saving tip: Renting from a nearby off-airport Enterprise location can significantly reduce these fees.
3. Insurance Add-Ons (Biggest Cost Trap)
All three companies aggressively upsell insurance at the counter.
Common options:
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LDW / CDW (Loss Damage Waiver): $25–$45/day
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SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance): $10–$15/day
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PAI / PEC (Personal coverage): $5–$10/day
⚠️ Many travelers don’t need these if:
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Your credit card includes rental car coverage
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You already have U.S. auto insurance
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Your travel insurance includes car rental protection
💡 Always check your credit card benefits BEFORE renting.
4. Fuel Charges (Very Common Mistake)
Rental companies make big profits on fuel.
Fuel options:
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Prepaid fuel: You pay upfront, no refund for unused fuel ❌
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Return empty: Extremely expensive ❌
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Return full (Best option): Fill up near the airport before return ✅
💡 Rule of thumb: Always choose return full unless your schedule is extremely tight.
5. Age & Driver Fees
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Under 25 surcharge: $20–$35/day
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Additional driver fee: $10–$15/day
📌 Enterprise advantage: Often allows spouses or domestic partners as free additional drivers (varies by location/state).
6. Toll Programs (Silent Money Drain)
If you use toll roads:
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Rental toll programs charge $5–$15 per day, even if you use tolls once
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Plus toll costs themselves
💡 Cheaper alternatives:
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Use your own toll transponder
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Pay tolls manually when possible
7. One-Way & Location-Based Fees
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One-way rentals: Can add $50–$300+
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Different pickup/return locations: Often increases taxes and fees
💡 Enterprise usually offers better one-way pricing within the U.S.
8. Cleaning, Smoking & Damage Fees
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Smoking fee: $250–$500
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Excessive cleaning: $150+
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Minor damage claims: Can be costly without proper coverage
📸 Always take photos/videos at pickup and return.
Hidden Fee Comparison: Who Is Most Transparent?
| Fee Type | Hertz | Avis | Enterprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport fees | High | High | Medium |
| Insurance upsell | Aggressive | Moderate | Moderate |
| Fuel penalties | High | Medium | Medium |
| Under-25 fees | High | Medium | Medium |
| Toll program cost | High | Medium | Medium |
| Overall transparency | ⚠️ Medium | ✅ Good | ⭐ Best |
Best Money-Saving Tips for Renting a Car in the U.S.
Car rental prices in the U.S. can vary wildly, but smart planning can easily cut your costs by 20–50%. Use the tips below to avoid common traps and lock in the best deal.
1. Always Compare Prices (Never Book Blindly)
Rates change daily — sometimes hourly.
✔️ Compare Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise side by side
✔️ Check both airport and off-airport locations
✔️ Recheck prices 1–3 days before pickup (free cancellation helps)
💡 Pro tip: Enterprise neighborhood locations are often cheaper than airport counters.
2. Use Loyalty Programs (Even for One Rental)
All three companies offer free loyalty programs.
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Hertz Gold Plus Rewards
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Avis Preferred
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Enterprise Plus
✔️ Faster pickup
✔️ Occasional upgrades
✔️ Exclusive member pricing
💡 You don’t need frequent rentals — sign up before booking.
3. Avoid Overpaying for Insurance
Insurance is the biggest unnecessary expense.
Before you rent, check:
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Credit card rental coverage
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Personal U.S. auto insurance
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Travel insurance policies
💡 Many premium credit cards cover CDW/LDW, saving $25–$45 per day.
4. Choose the Right Pickup Location
Airport rentals come with extra fees.
✔️ Airport = convenience, higher cost
✔️ Neighborhood locations = cheaper, fewer fees
💡 If staying several days, Uber to a nearby Enterprise location to save big.
5. Book the Smallest Car You Can Accept
Rental companies frequently upgrade vehicles for free.
✔️ Book economy or compact
✔️ Higher chance of free upgrades
✔️ Lower base rate & better fuel economy
6. Decline Prepaid Fuel Options
Fuel plans are rarely worth it.
❌ Prepay fuel
❌ Return empty
✅ Return full — refill near the return location.
7. Bring Your Own Toll Solution
Rental toll programs are expensive.
✔️ Use your personal transponder
✔️ Pay tolls manually when possible
💡 Toll programs often charge daily fees even for one toll use.
8. Watch Out for Young Driver Fees
If you’re under 25:
✔️ Check credit card or corporate waivers
✔️ Enterprise sometimes offers lower under-25 fees
✔️ AAA members may qualify for discounts
9. Rebook If the Price Drops
Most rentals are free to cancel.
✔️ Book early
✔️ Monitor prices
✔️ Cancel & rebook if cheaper
This alone can save hundreds of dollars.
10. Take Photos (This Saves Money Later)
Before leaving the lot:
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Take photos of all sides of the car
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Record the interior & dashboard
💡 Prevents false damage or cleaning charges.
Quick Savings Strategy (Best for Most Travelers)
1️⃣ Compare all three companies
2️⃣ Book early with free cancellation
3️⃣ Use a credit card with rental coverage
4️⃣ Decline extras at the counter
5️⃣ Rebook if the price drops
Overview of Other U.S. Rental Companies
While Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise dominate the U.S. market, there are several other noteworthy brands — from mid-tier value players to niche or budget options — worth knowing about:
Alamo Rent A Car
📍 Mid-to-Upper Tier Value Option
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Popular with leisure travelers for good pricing, easy online booking, and straightforward policies.
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Often a good balance of service and economy, especially at major airports.
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Part of Enterprise Holdings, giving access to many of Enterprise’s systems and network.
National Car Rental
📍 Great for Frequent & Business Travelers
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Another brand under Enterprise Holdings with a reputation for high satisfaction and quick service, particularly for frequent business rentals.
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Offers the “Emerald Club” loyalty program with vehicle selection perks.
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National consistently rates highly in JD Power customer satisfaction studies.
Budget Car Rental
📍 Classic Value Brand
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Often positioned as a cost-friendly alternative to the Big Three.
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Good for travelers who want simple, no-frills rentals at competitive rates.
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Owned by Avis Budget Group, meaning it shares infrastructure and pricing strategies with Avis and Payless.
Dollar & Thrifty
📍 Economy Brands under Hertz
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Both brands are part of Hertz Global Holdings, offering generally lower prices and simpler fleets than Hertz itself.
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Good options for budget-first renters or those booking shorter trips.
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They’re practical alternatives when Hertz vehicles are limited or more expensive.
Payless Car Rental
📍 Budget-Oriented Brand (Avis Group)
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Owned by Avis Budget Group, Payless focuses on lower-cost rentals with fewer amenities.
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A good choice for budget travelers or students who want basic service without major fees.
Rent-a-Wreck
📍 Neighborhood & Budget Option
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Unique in that it rents previously owned vehicles — often at lower rates than mainstream companies.
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Popular in neighborhood settings as well as certain airport concessions.
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Best for budget-savvy, flexible travelers who don’t need new vehicles.
Sixt (U.S. Presence)
📍 Premium & Fun Fleet Alternative
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German-based company that has been expanding in the U.S. with premium cars (e.g., BMW, Mercedes, Audi) often at competitive prices.
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Known for more upscale options in major cities and airport locations.
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Some U.S. customers report issues with technology or damage billing practices, so read policies carefully.
Emerging & Car-Sharing Options
📍 Alternative Mobility Services
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Zipcar — a car-sharing service popular in cities and on campuses, offering hourly or daily bookings with fuel and insurance included (still operating in the U.S.).
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Turo, Getaround, HyreCar — peer-to-peer platforms where individuals rent out their own vehicles, often cheaper but with different insurance/coverage rules than traditional companies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Enterprise really cheaper than Hertz?
A: Often yes, especially off-airport.
Q2: Can international drivers rent in the U.S.?
A: Yes. Passport + foreign license is usually enough.
Q3: Should I buy rental insurance?
A: Only if your credit card doesn’t cover it.
Q4: What's the age limit?
A: Typically 21+; no upper limit, but extras for 75+ in some cases.
Q5: Can I rent a car with a Chinese Driver’s License?
A: Yes, most major companies accept a valid Chinese license accompanied by an English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) for tourists. However, policies vary by state for long-term residents/students.
Q6: What if there's an accident or breakdown?
A: Stop safely, call 911 if needed, contact the company, and photo everything.
Choosing between Hertz, Avis, or Enterprise boils down to your budget, itinerary, and priorities—Hertz for premium efficiency, Avis for balanced deals, Enterprise for approachable service. With these insights and tips, you're set to rent smartly and explore the US affordably. Safe travels!