Whether you’re planning a vacation to the beautiful island of St. Thomas or are there on business, one question might be nagging at the back of your mind: “Should I rent a car in St. Thomas?” With a ton of options at your disposal, it might seem overwhelming to make a decision. Worry no more, as we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know.
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 St. Thomas?
Yes, You Should Consider Renting a Car in St. Thomas for the Following Reasons:
Freedom and Flexibility
Having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore the island on your own terms. You can visit attractions that might be out of the way or not included in public transport routes. Moreover, you can adjust your schedule as you wish, lingering longer at a beautiful beach, or leaving early if a site is not to your liking.
Convenience
With a rental car, you don’t have to worry about bus schedules or hailing taxis. You can simply get in your car and go wherever you want, whenever you want. This can be especially handy for early morning departures or late-night returns.
Comfort
In a rental car, you have your own private space. You don’t have to squeeze into a crowded bus or share a taxi with strangers. If you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, having a rental car allows everyone to stay together.
Cost-Effective for Groups
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a car can often be cheaper than buying multiple bus tickets or taking multiple taxi rides.
However, You Should Also Consider the Potential Downsides:
Left-Side Driving
Driving in St. Thomas can be a challenge for those not used to driving on the left side of the road, especially since the rental cars are typically left-hand drive. It can take a bit of time to get accustomed to the different driving style.
Steep and Winding Roads
The roads in St. Thomas are known to be steep and winding, which can be tricky to navigate, especially for those not experienced in such conditions.
Parking
Parking can be a challenge in some parts of St. Thomas, especially in the busier areas. Some accommodations may not offer parking, and street parking might be limited.
Additional Costs
Renting a car comes with added costs such as rental insurance, gas, and parking fees. Depending on the duration of your stay, these costs could add up.
Things To Take Into Consideration When Renting a Car at St. Thomas
Renting a car anywhere, let alone in St. Thomas, can be a tricky process. There are several factors you should consider before making a decision. Let’s dive in and explore those key points.
1. Freedom of Movement
When you rent a car in St. Thomas, or any other place for that matter, one of the biggest advantages is the freedom of movement. Unlike depending on public transportation or taxis, having a rental car at your disposal means you can move around the island at your own pace, visiting locations that might otherwise be inaccessible.
If you’ve never rented a car before, and are unsure of what to ask when renting a car, we’ve got you covered. Head over to our detailed guide on What to Ask When Renting a Car, which will equip you with all the necessary information you need to ensure you get the best possible car for your needs.
2. Consider your Budget
St. Thomas is a stunning locale, but vacationing there can be expensive. This is where a guide on how to Rent a Car Cheap can come in handy. Saving on car rentals can leave you with extra cash to enjoy all that St. Thomas has to offer.
Also, be sure to check out our guide on How to Save Money on Car Rentals for further tips and tricks. After all, who doesn’t love a good deal?
3. Insurance and Payment Methods
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
One thing to consider when renting a car is insurance. You might be wondering, Can I Rent a Car Without Insurance?. The answer is, while you can technically rent a car without personal car insurance, it’s not advisable. Accidents can happen, and it’s best to be prepared.
While on the topic of insurance, it’s also essential to consider the type of insurance you should opt for. Check out our article on What Kind of Insurance Should I Get When Renting a Car Through Budget? for a deep dive into the different insurance options available to you.
Similarly, you might not have a credit card, or prefer not to use one for rentals. In that case, our guide on How to Rent a Car Without a Credit Card can help navigate your way around this common hurdle.
4. Tech-Savvy Renting
In today’s digital world, you can do almost anything from your phone, including renting a car. If you’re a tech-enthusiast, make sure to check out The 6 Best Car Rental Apps. These apps can help streamline the rental process, making your life that much easier.
Exploring St. Thomas With a Rental Car
Renting a car in St. Thomas doesn’t just afford you the convenience of getting around the island at your own pace. It also opens up a world of opportunities for exploration and adventure. From picturesque beaches to historic sites, let’s uncover the must-visit places you can explore with your rental car.
1. Magens Bay
Magens Bay is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and with good reason. Its calm, clear waters and white sandy beach are the stuff of postcards. Having your own rental car means you can visit this gem of a location whenever you want, avoiding the crowds that often swarm during peak hours.
2. Paradise Point
No trip to St. Thomas would be complete without a ride up the Skyride to Paradise Point. While the ride up offers a thrilling experience with panoramic views of the island, having a rental car means you can drive up to the point and savor the breathtaking views at your leisure.
3. Historic Sites
St. Thomas boasts a rich history, with several historic sites like Blackbeard’s Castle, Fort Christian, and the 99 Steps. Each location offers a glimpse into the island’s past. With your rental car, you have the flexibility to spend as much time as you wish at these locations, immersing yourself in the history of St. Thomas.
Navigating St. Thomas’s Roads With Your Rental Car
Renting a car in St. Thomas comes with its unique challenges. The most significant difference is that unlike in the mainland United States, in St. Thomas, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. However, most rental cars are left-hand drive, which can take some getting used to.
Also, the island has some steep and winding roads that might prove challenging to inexperienced drivers. That being said, as long as you drive cautiously and adhere to the speed limits, you should be fine. For more tips on navigating unfamiliar roads, check out our article on How to Drive in a Foreign Country.
Final Thoughts
The decision to rent a car in St. Thomas largely hinges on your personal preferences and circumstances. Weighing the benefits of freedom, flexibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness against the potential challenges such as left-side driving, winding roads, parking issues, and additional costs can help guide your choice. However, whatever you decide, rest assured that Simple Rent Car is here to provide guidance on how to save money on car rentals and insights on other related topics such as what to ask when renting a car and how to rent a car without a credit card. Happy travels!
