Cars Rentals Discounts

FAQ

Car rental questions, answered plainly

These are the questions that come up at almost every rental counter: how deposits and holds work, whether you can use a debit card, which fuel policy is cheapest, how additional drivers and mileage are charged, and what to inspect before you drive off. Clear answers here save money and arguments later.

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Deposits, cards, and fuel

Rental companies place a hold on your card at pickup as a deposit, which is released after you return the car. The hold can be larger than the rental itself, so make sure your card has room. Debit cards are accepted by many companies but often with extra conditions, such as a credit check, proof of a return travel itinerary, or restrictions on certain car classes, so a credit card is usually the smoother choice.

On fuel, the cheapest policy is almost always full-to-full: you receive the car full and return it full, paying only for what you use. Prepaid fuel and refueling-service options are convenient but usually cost more, and you rarely return a car perfectly empty, so you pay for fuel you did not use. Fill up near the return location and keep the receipt.

Drivers, mileage, and the walk-around

Every person who will drive should normally be listed on the contract, or coverage can be void if an unlisted driver has an incident. Additional-driver fees are common and usually daily, though some memberships and benefits waive them, so ask. On mileage, most rentals in North America include unlimited miles, but capped-mileage rates exist, especially on specialty vehicles and abroad, so confirm the allowance before a long drive.

Before you leave the lot, walk around the car and photograph or video any existing damage, including wheels and the roof, and make sure it is noted on the agreement. Do the same at return. This simple habit is the best protection against being charged for damage you did not cause.

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Questions

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a car with a debit card?
Often yes, but with conditions. Many companies accept debit cards while requiring a credit check, proof of a return flight or itinerary, or restricting certain car classes, and some locations do not accept them at all. A credit card is usually the smoother option. Check the supplier's debit-card policy before you book.
What rental fuel policy is cheapest?
Full-to-full is almost always cheapest: you get the car full and return it full, paying only for the fuel you use. Prepaid fuel and refueling-service options cost more and rarely work in your favor, since you seldom return a car empty. Fill up near the return location and keep the receipt as proof.
Why does the rental company hold money on my card?
The hold is a refundable security deposit taken at pickup and released after you return the car, which can take several days to clear depending on your bank. It is often larger than the rental cost, so ensure your card has available room. The hold is separate from the actual rental charge.
Do I have to add an additional driver?
Anyone who will drive should be listed on the contract; if an unlisted driver has an incident, coverage can be void. Additional-driver fees are common and usually charged per day, though some memberships, corporate rates, and spouse policies waive them. Ask at booking, and add every driver before you leave the counter.
What should I check before driving off the lot?
Walk around the car and photograph or video any existing damage, including the wheels, bumpers, and roof, and confirm it is noted on the rental agreement. Check the fuel level matches the contract. Repeat the photos at return. This habit is your best defense against being billed for pre-existing damage.

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