Do Rental Cars Have Mileage Limits?
Rental cars often include unlimited mileage for standard vehicles. However, many rentals, particularly luxury, specialty, or long-term ones, impose strict limits, typically ranging from 100 to 250 miles per day.
Also, the mileage limit generally depends on the rental company, pick-up and drop-off locations, vehicle types, and rental duration chosen.
When the given limit is exceeded, the rental service providers will charge an additional fee for each extra mile. In addition, exotic, specialty, and luxury cars are more likely to have limited mileage.
What is Limited Mileage and its Key Aspects?
Car rentals with limited mileage mean having a specific distance that is permitted by the car rental operator. They charge a fixed price for the given limits. Keep in mind that if the given limit is crossed, an extra fee will be incurred.
The typical distance limit for a rental car ranges between 100 and 250 miles.
After this, the car rental company will charge a fee, calculated per mile.
People choose limited mileage, specifically when they need lower rental fees and have a shorter distance to cover.
Go through the rental agreement and the car rental company’s terms and conditions to know about the mileage offered.
What are the Pros and Cons of Limited Mileage?
Car rentals with limited mileage come with certain benefits and downsides. One must check it out before deciding on it.
Pros
These have cheaper base rates.
It is good for local, city, and short-term trips.
Car rentals with limited mileage can help in saving money when travel destinations are fixed.
Vehicles/cars given for rentals are often well-maintained and newer.
Additional services, such as a car rental mobile Wi-Fi hotspot can also be availed.
Cons
When the given limit is exceeded, a hefty fee will be charged per mile.
Since the distance limit exists, it becomes necessary to have solid planning.
It restricts spontaneous and long trips due to limited mileage.
If multiple destinations need to be covered, it is not an ideal choice.
What If I Need to Cover More Distance Than the Limit?
For this, unlimited mileage is available. It gives renters the freedom to travel without worrying about the distance. However, before considering this option, always check its key aspects to have maximum benefits.
No fee will be involved, whether a renter drives 10 miles or 100 miles.
This facility is accessible at various airports and other regions in the United States.
Car rental companies with unlimited mileage offer cross-border services to Mexico, Canada, and others.
It is a great option to prevent unnecessary surprises and extra fees.
What to Know About Unlimited Mileage Car Rentals?
Just like limited mileage, this option also comes with certain benefits and drawbacks. To decide if it is a suitable choice, one must know the same.
Pros
With no distance limits, renters have full flexibility and freedom to drive without looking at the odometer.
It gives liberty to drive more or fulfill spontaneous travel plans.
For long route travels, it is a great option, since car rentals do not charge by the mile.
It mitigates the anxiety of extra fees that incur when mileage caps are exceeded.
Anyone renting a car for exploration and vacations, this is the best way to save more.
Cons
The upfront cost may be higher for unlimited mileage rentals.
Since charges are fixed (and higher generally), they are not a preferred choice for short trips.
Specialty, luxury, and big vehicles are generally excluded from the list.
Even though cross-border travel may be available, more rules will be imposed.
What are the Top Rental Agencies Offering Limited/Unlimited Mileage Options?
Some rental cars have mileage limits, while others may not offer their services with this restriction. Depending on the needs, one can consider the service provider.
Companies with Limited and Unlimited Mileage
Advantage
Doller
Payless
Hertz
Budget
National
Avis
When Limited Mileage Makes More Sense?
Considering numerous relevant aspects can help renters make a wise choice. Besides, one must have several other things to keep in mind when choosing limited mileage:
Travel Distance: Map out the travel route to estimate the total miles a renter wants to cover through the rental cars. For example, if the distance is under 100-120 miles per day, it is good to opt for the limited mileage.
Purpose of the Trip: If the purpose of the trip is airport transfers or shorter trips, limited mileage car rentals are ideal. On the other hand, if plans include spontaneous trips and cross-border travels, it is not the right choice.
Overage costs: Since limited mileage comes with a fixed travel distance limit, it is mandatory to keep a close check on the distance covered. Surpassing the limit will incur a higher overage cost. To avoid this, it is good to have a clear distance in mind.
Type of Rentals: Larger and luxury vehicles mostly have limited mileage. However, this may have different regulations involved. So, it is good to check with the respective car rental company for a better understanding.
Important Note: To decide whether limited mileage is a good choice, consider the upfront costs, travel distance, location of car rentals in Chicago, purpose of the trip, and other aspects.
Conclusion
Rental cars have mileage limits, which are around 100-250 miles per day, but there are also unlimited mileage options. This often confuses renters. However, they can consider the distance, cost involved, vehicle type, and other aspects to make an informed decision.
