10 Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a Car
10 Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a Car
Jordan OMalleyTue, February 24, 2026 at 8:09 PM UTC
0
Driving a rental car isn’t as simple as picking up the keys and hitting the road. Every decision can affect your final bill. Some mistakes are easy to avoid, yet many people still make them.
These slip-ups can lead to extra fees, denied insurance claims, or even full responsibility for damage. Knowing what not to do can save you money and stress. This list covers the most common missteps renters make, based on real advice from experts in the rental industry.
Skip Documenting the Car’s Condition at Both Pickup and Drop-Off
Credit: Canva
Disputes over dents, scuffs, or interior damage often hinge on what was recorded before and after the rental. A slow video walkthrough at pickup and drop-off is your strongest protection. If there's no attendant when you return the car, that visual record can stop surprise charges later.
Prepay for Fuel Without a Specific Return Plan
Credit: Canva
Buying a full tank in advance seems easier, but you're usually paying more than the pump price. Unless you know you'll return the car empty, or you're racing to catch an early flight, it’s rarely worth it. Most drivers return with leftover fuel that the company keeps.
Wait Until the Last Day to Find a Gas Station
Credit: Photo Images
Trying to find a gas station close to the rental return can be stressful. Traffic, unfamiliar roads, or overpriced fuel near the airport all work against you. Spot a good station early in your trip and use it again on the way back to save time and money.
Rely on Rental Insurance Without Verifying Your Auto Policy
Credit: Canva
Your personal auto insurance might already extend to rental cars, but not always. Many people pay for rental coverage they don’t need, simply because they never check. Others decline it and find out too late that their policy didn’t apply. One phone call can clear it up.
Ignore What Your Credit Card Might Cover
Credit: Canva
Advertisement
Some credit cards include collision damage or supplemental insurance if used to pay for the rental. Benefits vary by issuer and card type, but skipping this check can mean missing out on free protection and paying for less generous coverage at the counter. Activation typically requires booking the car on that card.
Assume Loss of Use Charges Are Covered
Credit: Canva
If the car gets damaged and needs repairs, the rental company may charge for every day it’s off the road. This “loss of use” fee is often not covered by regular insurance. Some credit cards do cover it, but only if specific conditions are met.
Cross a National Border Without Permission
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Many U.S. rental contracts restrict driving into other countries. If you drive into Canada or Mexico without formal approval, your insurance and rental agreement may become void. This removes any support in case of an accident or theft outside authorized zones.
Decline an Upgrade Without Asking for the Price
Credit: pexels
If lower-tier cars are overbooked, rental desks sometimes offer upgrades at a reduced rate or no extra charge. Asking how much doesn’t lock you in. In some cases, a better car may be the same price as what you booked, or even cheaper.
Ignore Discounts Through Groups You Already Belong To
Credit: Pressmaster
AAA, AARP, and airline loyalty programs often have rental partnerships. You may be eligible for discounted daily rates or waived fees simply by entering a code. These offers aren’t always visible in the booking flow, so checking your memberships before reserving is worth the minimal effort.
Leave the Lot Without Understanding Return Terms
Credit: Canva
Not all rental returns are straightforward. Some locations have specific drop-off procedures or time-based fees. If no one checks the car in, you could get charged for missing keys, late return, or damage. Take two minutes at pickup to clarify the return process.
Source: “AOL Money”
