Do Rental Cars Have Snow Tires?
It is relatively challenging to rent a car with snow tires in the regions of the USA, as most rental agencies, such as Budget and Hertz, use “all-season tires”, even in snowy areas, like Vermont and Colorado.
However, notifying the rental company in advance will help in getting a rental car with specialized snow tires. Before this, it is mandatory to know several other aspects to have a smooth experience.
Do All Rental Cars have Snow Tires?
Generally, car rentals do not come with winter tires. But it is possible to have them by informing the rental company of the needs. While doing this, keep the following in mind:
Most vehicles are operated with all-season tires, even during winter.
In some mountainous or snowy areas, companies may offer vehicles with winter tires.
Rent a SUV or 4WD when planning a road trip during severe winter or snowy days.
Note: Always check with the rental company in Colorado and other snowy regions if they offer snow tires in the available vehicles or not.
Which Rental Agencies Offer Rental Cars with Snow Tires?
Many options are available from which you can rent a car with winter tires with special requests. Some names include the following:
Budget
SIXT
Europcar
Hertz
Alamo
Hola
Enterprise
Avis
Note: Many other local agencies are available that may offer rental cars with specialized winter tires. So, check the same before reserving a vehicle.
What to Know Before Renting a Car with Snow Tires?
Snow or winter tires in the United States are not common, as companies generally use all-season ones. In case you need it, know the following before renting a car with snow tires:
Snow tires are rare, so contact the company if you plan to travel in an area with deep ice.
Request snow tires in advance because companies do not normally use them.
If they are not available, you can go for the SUV with 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Always go through the ‘mud and snow’ rating of the tires.
Read the ‘snow chain policy’, as using personal ones is forbidden.
Read the early pick-up and drop-off of the rental to avoid extra fees.
Rather than booking in non-winter areas, try to get a car rental for a snow trip in winter-heavy regions, such as Denver.
It increases the chance of getting snow tires or relevant vehicles.
Always get auto rental car insurance for broader coverage against accidents and damage.
