"How to Save When Renting a Car."
Here’s what to know before you book your next trip.

Rental car prices are up about 35 percent since before the pandemic, according to NerdWallet, making the cost a significant expense, especially if you overpay for the daily rate and add-ons.

Rental companies almost always push expensive insurance coverage (sometimes more than $30 a day). Most of us probably don’t need it, though. The Insurance Information Institute says personal auto policies usually include liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage on rental cars in the U.S. (But don’t assume: Always verify the coverage because credit card benefits can change over time.)

Many credit card companies also offer collision protection for vehicle rentals paid for with their card. (See the credit cards with the best perks.) But before you decline coverage, confirm with your auto insurance provider or credit card issuer that your rental car is covered. In addition, some cards won’t cover rentals in Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, and a few other foreign countries.

If you value peace of mind over money, however, paying for the rental car company’s damage coverage means you won’t have to file a claim with your auto insurer, pay a deductible, and risk a premium increase. AAA members who book through the membership club’s website can add insurance that often costs less than what the rental car companies offer.

Here are some other things to consider when renting.

MORE Info at:
https://www.consumerreports.org/money/car-rentals/how-to-save-when-renting-a-car-a1019661198/

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