If you have collision coverage on your policy, you should be set. And most American Express, VISA and Master Cards, particularly the gold and platinum ones, provide collision and theft protection as long as you book the rental with that card. They will even kick in to cover your deductible and other damage costs that your primary insurer doesn't pay for.
"It's definitely a great benefit that we want more of our card members to take advantage of," said American Express spokeswoman Mona Hamouly.
Your liability insurance limits should also apply to your rental. Most insurers treat a rental as your primary - or "temporary substitute" - vehicle when it's in your possession. Maryland requires all drivers to have liability insurance of at least $20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident for bodily injury and $15,000 for property damage. Car rental companies must cover you with that minimum amount, even if you lack your own auto insurance policy.
What about renting a car outside the United States or Canada? Most insurers don't cover car rentals abroad, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic. And the credit card collision benefits are more restricted by country and type of vehicle.
Other add-ons that will inflate your bill include high-tech tools such as GPS navigation systems, satellite radio panels and EZ-Pass devices. Renting a GPS system alone costs at least $12 a day. Use an old-fashioned map or bring your own portable GPS along instead.
Other expenses to watch for include mileage restrictions and second-driver costs. You can often pay more for unlimited mileage with your rental, but a mileage cap of 150 miles per day can save you $3 to $7 per day, according to Thrifty Car Rental. Some renters will also waive second-driver fees for spouses, domestic partners or a colleague you are on a business trip with.
And return the car on time. Find out in advance whether the company charges for a partial or full day for late returns.
But don't return the vehicle more than 24 hours early. Most companies charge you about a $15 early-return fee. Just be on time.
laura.mccandlish@baltsun.com
TRIM YOUR RENTAL BILL
Shop locations: Renting at an airport often costs up to $10 more a day. You get hit with extra airport surcharges and fees.
Regional renters: Smaller companies may offer better deal. Check them out.
Discounts: Members of AAA and AARP and other organizations can get discounts. Some warehouse shopping clubs also offer discounts. See if your employer entitles you to a corporate discount.
Avoid late charges: Return on time and ask, if late, whether you will be charged for a partial or full day. If it's not a 24-hour branch, find out the hours of operation and after hours drop-off procedure.
Insurance: Check your auto insurance policy. You're probably covered. Many credit cards also provide collision and theft protection provided you use the car to pay for the rental. The benefit only kicks in if you first decline the renter's Collision/Loss Damage Waiver fee.
Gas: Refill the tank yourself.
Fancy gadgets: Springing for GPS navigation systems, satellite radio and EZ-Pass devices ratchets up that daily bill.
Sources: AAA Mid-Atlantic, Maryland Insurance Administration, Abrams Consulting Group Inc.
