A gem of Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta has always drawn visitors with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and gastronomic experiences. But should you consider renting a car while you’re there? Let’s explore the question in detail in this comprehensive guide.
When planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta, one question you might find yourself asking is whether it’s worth it to rent a car. After all, navigating an unfamiliar city in a rented vehicle can be a challenge for some, but it also offers a unique freedom and convenience that public transportation or taxis can’t match.
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.
Should I Rent a Car in Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, You should rent a car in Puerto Vallarta. Here are some benefits while renting a car in Puerto Vallarta.
- Exploring Beyond the City: Renting a car allows you the freedom to venture beyond the city center and explore the surrounding areas, including beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and picturesque villages.
- Flexibility: Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary and travel at your own pace. You won’t be tied to public transportation schedules or dependent on taxis.
- Remote Destinations: If you plan to visit remote locations or off-the-beaten-path attractions, having a car will make it much more convenient to reach these places.
- Convenience: Car rentals are readily available in Puerto Vallarta, and it can be more convenient than relying on multiple forms of public transportation to get around.
- Cost-Effective for Groups: If you are traveling with a group of people, renting a car can be more cost-effective than paying for individual transportation options.
Saving Money on Car Rentals
Renting a car doesn’t have to be a budget-breaking expense. If you do your homework, you can find plenty of ways to save money on car rentals. For instance, booking your car rental in advance can save you a significant amount of money, especially during the peak tourist season.
Compare prices from different rental companies to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Be aware that the cost can vary depending on factors such as the rental duration, car size, and the time of year.
Moreover, consider if you need the extras that rental companies often offer, like GPS or additional insurance. It’s important to understand what’s included in your rental agreement and what’s considered an extra cost.
Pro Tip: Car rental companies often offer discounts for longer rental periods, so consider your travel needs and see if a weekly rental might save you more money compared to daily rates.
Renting a Car Without Insurance
One of the most common questions we hear is, “Can you rent a car without insurance?” The short answer is yes, you can. However, it’s not recommended. If something happens, the financial repercussions could be hefty.
If you don’t have personal auto insurance, consider buying coverage from the rental company. Some credit cards also offer rental insurance as a perk, so check with your card provider before your trip.
Remember: While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, rental car insurance can give you peace of mind during your trip, allowing you to focus on the enjoyable aspects of your vacation.
Renting a Car With a Passport
Traveling internationally can bring about unique considerations. For example, you might be wondering, “Can I rent a car with a passport?” The good news is that in most cases, you can.
In Mexico, as long as you have a valid driver’s license from your home country and a credit card, you should be able to rent a car. Having your passport on hand can be useful for identity verification.
Renting a Car Without a Credit Card
While most rental companies do require a credit card, it’s not impossible to rent a car without one. Some companies may accept debit cards, although they may require additional documentation and place a hold on your account for the rental duration.
International Car Insurance
When renting a car in a foreign country, it’s essential to understand the purpose of international car insurance. It provides coverage for any damages or liabilities that might occur while you’re driving in another country.
However, policies can vary, and what’s covered in one country might not be covered in another. Always read the fine print and don’t hesitate to ask questions to ensure you’re fully covered for your trip.
Car Rental for Out-of-State Travel
The freedom to explore at your own pace is one of the most appealing aspects of renting a car. But what happens if your adventures take you beyond the borders of the state? Do rental companies allow this?
This is a valid concern. If you’re planning a longer trip or want to venture further afield from Puerto Vallarta, you might be asking: “How do I rent a car to travel out of state?”
Most car rental companies allow for out-of-state travel, but it’s always essential to confirm with your rental provider beforehand. Some may have restrictions or charge additional fees. Be transparent about your travel plans to avoid any surprises or complications.
Roadside Assistance
Another consideration when renting a car is whether the rental company offers roadside assistance. Breakdowns or car trouble can happen anytime, even with rental cars. To save yourself potential headaches, it’s worth investigating whether your chosen rental company offers roadside assistance as standard or as an optional extra.
For instance, companies like Avis have services in place for these scenarios. But, does Avis offer standard roadside assistance? The answer is yes, but they also offer an upgraded version called “Roadside SafetyNet” that covers additional scenarios such as lost keys, flat tires, or a dead battery.
Insider’s Tip: Always check what roadside assistance covers. Not all services are the same, and you’ll want to ensure you’re covered for the most common travel mishaps.
Using a Car Rental App
As the world becomes more digital, so does the car rental industry. There are now many car rental apps that make booking a car as easy as a few taps on your smartphone.
Our roundup of the 6 best car rental apps can help you navigate this new trend. These apps not only allow you to book a car, but many of them also offer features like mobile check-in, real-time updates, and even choosing the exact model you want to rent.
These apps bring convenience to your fingertips and could even save you money. Many of them offer exclusive deals to app users, so it’s worth checking them out before making your rental booking.
Conclusion
Renting a car in Puerto Vallarta is a decision that requires thorough research and planning. From understanding what to ask when renting a car, determining how to save money on car rentals, to knowing the ins and outs of international car insurance, there’s plenty to consider. But, with the right information and resources, it can be an excellent option to maximize your travel experience.
Keep in mind that every travel experience is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another.
So, whether you’re pondering about renting a car with a passport or curious about which credit cards offer rental insurance, our advice is to ask, research, and compare. After all, a well-planned trip can make your journey to Puerto Vallarta all the more enjoyable. Happy travels!
