Are you planning a road trip or need a car for a short period of time? Renting a car can be a convenient and affordable option, but it’s important to understand the costs involved. In this article, we’ll explore the average cost of renting a car for two days in the United States, as well as the factors that impact the price.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
How Much to Rent a Car for 2 Days?
The cost of a two-day car rental can vary greatly depending on the company you choose.
To give you an idea, here’s a comparison of some of the most popular car rental companies and their average prices for a 2-day car rental:
| Company | Los Angeles | New York | Chicago | Miami | Seattle | Denver |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | $80-$100 | $100-$120 | $80-$100 | $90-$110 | $80-$100 | $70-$90 |
| Avis | $70-$90 | $90-$110 | $70-$90 | $80-$100 | $70-$90 | $60-$80 |
| Enterprise | $60-$80 | $80-$100 | $60-$80 | $70-$90 | $60-$80 | $50-$70 |
| National | $70-$90 | $90-$110 | $70-$90 | $80-$100 | $70-$90 | $60-$80 |
| Alamo | $60-$80 | $80-$100 | $60-$80 | $70-$90 | $60-$80 | $50-$70 |
| Budget | $50-$70 | $80-$100 | $50-$70 | $60-$80 | $50-$70 | $40-$60 |
| Dollar Rent A Car | $60-$80 | $90-$110 | $60-$80 | $70-$90 | $60-$80 | $50-$70 |
| Fox Rent A Car | $50-$70 | $80-$100 | $50-$70 | $60-$80 | $50-$70 | $40-$60 |
| Thrifty | $60-$80 | $90-$110 | $60-$80 | $70-$90 | $60-$80 | $50-$70 |
Keep in mind that these are average costs and the actual price you pay could be higher or lower depending on the specific rental location, time of year, availability, and other factors.
Typical Cost of a Car Rental
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $100 for a two-day car rental. However, this will depend on a number of factors, such as the type of car, location, and age of the driver.
Factors that Impact Rental Car Costs
Here are some of the key factors that can impact the cost of your rental car:
Car Type
The type of car you choose can have a big impact on the cost of your rental. For example, luxury cars and sports cars tend to be more expensive than economy or compact cars.
Location
Where you rent your car can also impact the cost. Renting a car in a big city can be more expensive than renting in a rural area. Additionally, prices may be higher during the peak travel season.
Age of the Driver
The age of the driver can also impact the cost of your rental car. Younger drivers, under the age of 25, may be subject to additional fees, while senior citizens may be eligible for discounts.
Additional Costs
It is important to keep in mind that the base rental rate may not include additional costs such as taxes, insurance, and extra services such as GPS navigation or a child safety seat.
How to Get the Best Deal on Your Rental Car
To get the best deal on your rental car, it’s important to plan ahead and do your research. Here are a few tips to help you save money on your rental:
- Book your car in advance to secure the best rate
- Compare prices across multiple car rental companies
- Look for discounts and coupons
- Choose a car with the most fuel-efficient engine
- Avoid rental car insurance if you already have coverage
Book Your Car in Advance
Booking your rental car in advance can help you secure the best rate and ensure that you have the car you need for your trip. Booking ahead of time also allows you to compare prices from different rental companies to find the best deal.
Compare Prices Across Multiple Car Rental
Companies Comparison shopping is key to finding the best deal on your rental car. Take the time to compare prices from different car rental companies, and look for any discounts or promotions that may be available. You can also compare prices online to find the best deal.
Look for Discounts and Coupons
There are many discounts and coupons available for rental cars, so be sure to look for them when you are booking your rental. You can ask the rental company directly or look online for special promotions. Some of the most common discounts include AAA, military, and senior discounts.
Choose a Car with the Most Fuel-Efficient Engine
Choosing a car with a fuel-efficient engine can help you save money on gas and reduce the overall cost of your rental. Consider a smaller car or one with a hybrid engine if you want to save money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint.
Avoid Rental Car Insurance if You Already Have Coverage
If you already have car insurance, you may not need to purchase additional insurance from the rental car company. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered for rental cars and if there are any restrictions. By avoiding rental car insurance, you can save money on your rental and reduce your overall cost.
Hidden Fees and Additional Costs
When renting a car, it’s important to be aware of the potential hidden fees and additional costs that can quickly add up. To ensure that you have an accurate estimate of the total cost of your rental, be sure to consider the following fees:
- Gas charges
- Insurance fees
- Parking fees
- Tolls and other road charges
- Late return fees
Gas Charges
Many car rental companies charge you for the gas you use during your rental period. Some rental companies may require you to return the car with a full tank of gas, while others offer a full-to-full fuel policy, where you only pay for the gas you use. Be sure to read the fuel policy of each rental company to understand what charges may apply.
Insurance Fees
Car rental insurance can add a significant amount to the cost of your rental. Be sure to check if your personal auto insurance policy or credit card provides coverage for rental cars, as you may not need to purchase additional insurance from the rental company.
Parking Fees
If you’re parking your rental car in a paid lot or garage, be aware that parking fees can add up quickly. Consider the cost of parking when planning your road trip and factor it into your budget.
Tolls and Other Road Charges
Tolls and other road charges, such as bridge and tunnel fees, can add up quickly during a road trip. Some rental car companies offer a toll pass or e-pass that allows you to pay tolls electronically, while others may charge a fee for each toll road you use. Be sure to ask about these charges and consider the cost when planning your road trip.
Late Return Fees
If you return your rental car late, you may be charged a late return fee. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of your rental agreement to understand the fees that may apply and to plan accordingly.
By being aware of these potential hidden fees and additional costs, you can ensure that you have an accurate estimate of the total cost of your rental car and avoid any unexpected charges.
What Day is Best to Rent a Car?
Here are some tips to help you find the best day to rent a car:
- Mid-week rentals tend to be cheaper than weekend rentals
- Renting a car on a week day rather than a weekend can result in savings
- Consider booking your rental car in advance to secure the best rate
- Research different rental car companies and compare prices to find the best deal
- Keep an eye on holiday and special event rates as they may be higher
Mid-week Rentals Tend to be Cheaper Than Weekend Rentals
It’s a well-known fact that mid-week rentals tend to be cheaper than weekend rentals. This is because the demand for rental cars is higher on weekends, so rental car companies can charge more. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider renting your car from Monday to Thursday to get the best rate.
Renting a Car on a Weekday Can Result in Savings
Renting a car on a weekday can be more cost-effective than renting on a weekend. Not only are mid-week rentals typically cheaper, but rental car companies also offer discounts and special deals for weekday rentals. This can result in significant savings if you’re planning a long-term rental.
Consider Booking Your Rental Car in Advance to Secure the Best Rate
Booking your rental car in advance can help you secure the best rate. Rental car companies offer lower rates to customers who book early, so it pays to plan ahead. You can also take advantage of special promotions and discounts that are only available to customers who book in advance.
Research Different Rental Car Companies and Compare Prices to Find the Best Deal
Comparing prices across multiple rental car companies is a smart way to find the best deal. Look for promotions, discounts, and special offers from each company to see which one is offering the best deal. Consider the rental car company’s reputation, the type of car you need, and any additional fees, such as gas charges and insurance fees, to make an informed decision.
Keep an Eye on Holiday and Special Event Rates
Holiday and special event rates may be higher than normal rental rates. To avoid paying more, plan ahead and book your rental car in advance. Keep an eye on holiday and special event rates to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
By following these tips, you can find the best day to rent a car and save money on your rental.
Wrapping Up
Renting a car can be a convenient and affordable way to get around on your next trip, but it’s important to understand the costs involved. By being aware of the typical cost of a rental car, the factors that impact the price, and hidden fees and additional costs, you can make an informed decision and save money. Additionally, by researching different rental car companies, comparing prices, and renting during mid-week, you can find the best deal on your rental. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you have a smooth and stress-free car rental experience.
