Everything to Know about the Best Gas Policies for Rental Cars
Car rental agencies in the United States offer different fuel options. This includes full-to-full, prepaid fuel, and the flat rates (EZFuel). Each option comes with pros and cons. So, before you decide on the best gas policy for rental cars, you must compare each policy.
What are the Best Fuel Policies/Options and Their Pros and Cons?
In the country, most rental car companies give various options to renters so that they can choose the most suitable one. Below are the best fuel policies for car rentals with attached pros and cons:
Full-to-Full
It is the cheapest and most common option offered by almost all service providers. However, no minimum charges are applied if you return the car with a full tank.
Pros
It is a cost-effective option.
You need to pay as per the market rates, not the inflated rental company fees.
No hidden charges are included if you return the car with a full tank.
Cons
You will need to refill the tank before returning to avoid hefty fees.
Service providers often charge an inflated rate for this.
Not a great option for those with a tight schedule or early-morning/late-night flights, as they will need to stop the car to fuel up.
When traveling in a remote area, it becomes harder to find a refueling station.
Prepaid Fuel
For this, you will need to pay for the full tank at the time of booking. This means you can return the rental car empty. Here are more details:
Pros
It is a time-saving and convenient option.
You can pay earlier and plan your travel budget better.
It eliminates the need to stop at potentially unsafe, unfamiliar, and remote areas.
This is the best gas policy for rental cars if you have early morning flights to catch.
Cons
You will need to pay a slightly higher amount (usually 10% to 20% more) than the market rates.
No refund is provided if you return the rental car with half or more fuel.
The prices vary from one vehicle type to another.
EZFuel
This option is available with some car rental companies in New York City and other areas. Before opting for this, you must know the following pros and cons:
Pros
This is a perfect option for short-distance drives.
You can choose it if you are traveling within 75 miles.
Car rental companies, such as Budget, charge USD 17.99 in California.
For other states, the fee is USD 15.99.
However, the rates vary based on the rental terms.
Cons
For leftover fuel, you will not get any refund.
The prices may seem a little higher than local market rates.
Sometimes, hidden charges may be involved.
This option is only offered by some rental car companies.
How to Choose the Best Gas Policy for Rental Cars?
When looking for the best fuel policy for car rentals, you will need to consider a few important things. Some of them have been outlined here:
Traveling Distance: Consider the travel distance. For instance, if you want to travel under 75 miles, opt for EZFuel. For longer or out-of-state trips, you can choose the prepaid fuel option.
Cost vs. Convenience: Undeniably, prepaid fuel will allow you to return the car rentals without worrying about the empty tank and applicable charges. However, it will come with a slightly higher fee.
Airport Prices: Gas stations near the airports may have higher fuel rates than in downtown and surrounding regions. So, when choosing the full-to-full option, make sure you refuel in a non-airport station.
Time Restrictions: For early morning flights, the prepaid option will help you save time. If the time limit is not an issue, you can choose other available options.
Final Takeaways,
Choosing the best gas policy for rental cars is easy when you know the travel distance, applicable charges, and other aspects. In addition, some rental companies, such as Budget and Avis, have the EZFuel option for shorter trips. However, you are advised to review the region-specific rules, company-based policies, and charges beforehand.
