Can you bring your dog in a rental car? The majority of major rental agencies allow pets in their vehicles at no extra charge—but there is a big potential gotcha. If you return the car with hair and odors, expect to pay a cleaning fee of up to $125.
Some rental car companies require that pets be in an approved carrier while in the car. For other rental car companies, policies vary by location. We recommend calling ahead of time to confirm the rental car company’s pet policies and any potential fees.
Beware a Rental Car Cleaning Fee
Want to bring your dog in a rental car but don’t want to get hit with a huge cleaning fee? Take these steps to make sure you return your car looking and smelling great.
Stop and go. When traveling with your pet, give your pet plenty of opportunities to eliminate outside the car.
Cover up. Bring a special pet-seat-cover to protect the back seat from puppy claws and paws. Don’t want to invest in gear? Even throwing down a sheet can make a difference.
Keep your pet safe and secure. Consider a dog crate to keep your dog safe in the car and to prevent it from shedding all over the car. Alternatively, get a harness and seat belt to keep your pet secure.
Pay for a cleaning. The rental car company will not look the other way if you return the car with dog hair or odors. Many car washes offer DIY vacuum services for a few dollars or, better yet, interior cleaning services for under $30, often including a choice of deodorizing scent. Consider ponying up for this service, as the cost is much less than what the rental car company would charge for detailing.
Gather proof. Save your receipt from a cleaning service in case the rental car company tries to charge you for another detailing. Take multiple before-and-after photographs of the interior of the car for proof that you returned a clean, undamaged car.
Rental Car Company Pet Policies
ACE
Pets are fine to ride in vehicles. However. renters are responsible to pay for any damage or necessary cleaning.
Alamo
Alamo allows pets in its rental vehicles. Customers need to keep pets crated and return their rental car in clean condition and free of pet hair to avoid cleaning/detailing fees. Service animals can ride in the vehicle without a carrier.
Avis
Avis does not have a strict pet policy, but please be sure to return your rental car in clean condition and free of pet hair, etc. to avoid cleaning fees.
Budget
Housebroken pets are welcome in your rental car, just like in your personal car. Although Budget doesn’t assess an extra fee for pets, pet owners will incur an additional charge for any damage caused by animals, or any special cleaning required as a result of shedding or accidents.
Dollar
Pets can ride in the vehicles with no additional fees. Dollar recommends that you secure your pet in a pet carrier, pet car seat, or similar safety restraint. Renters will pay for any damage caused by the pet. To avoid cleaning charges, return your vehicle clean and free of pet hair.
Enterprise
Pets can ride in rental vehicles. Customers need to keep pets crated and return their rental car in clean condition and free of pet hair to avoid cleaning/detailing fees. Service animals can ride in the vehicle without a carrier.
Fox
Pets are welcome. There are no fees or deposits. Renters will pay for any damage or necessary cleaning.
Hertz
Policies differ by location. Some allow domestic pets to ride in the vehicles with no additional fees. Renters will pay for any damage caused by the pet. To avoid cleaning charges, return the vehicle clean and free of pet hair.
National
Pets are allowed in rental vehicles. Customers need to keep pets crated and return their rental car in clean condition and free of pet hair to avoid cleaning/detailing fees. Service animals used by customers with disabilities are allowed in the vehicle without a carrier.
Payless
Policies vary by location. Contact the individual location to inquire.
Silvercar
Any pets traveling in a Silvercar vehicle must travel in an airline-approved pet carrier at all times. Designated service animals accompanying customers with disabilities are not subject to the pets policy. Although Silvercar doesn’t charge an extra fee for pets, pet owners will incur an additional charge for any damage caused by animals/pet carriers/harnesses, or any special cleaning required as a result of shedding or accidents.
Sixt
Sixt touts its pet-friendly policy. At some locations, you can arrange a “pet car rental,” which may be a minivan or SUV with extra room for your animal companion.
Thrifty
Pets can ride in the vehicles with no additional fees. Thrifty recommends that you properly secure your pet in a pet carrier, pet car seat, or similar safety restraint. Renters are responsible for any damage caused by the pet. To avoid cleaning charges, vehicles should be returned clean and free of pet hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to rent a car so that I can drive all over Europe.
Yes, you can. You will need to make a reservation for an organized tour, and then pay for each day separately. These types of tours can be booked by many companies.
If you’re looking for greater flexibility, consider renting a car through one the main travel agencies. These agencies typically offer various services such as car rentals and city transfers.
They often work with local suppliers who are experts in providing high-quality vehicles and competitive pricing.
You can drive a rental car from one country to another in Europe.
Hertz is a great place to rent if you plan on driving around Europe. It’s much cheaper than hiring a private driver. And they have great coverage.
You also get unlimited mileage. If you need to rent a car for more than one trip, you have the option of renting multiple cars.
If I am not from the US, can I rent my car in the US?
If you are not an American citizen, you cannot rent a vehicle in the United States unless you have been granted permission by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This could include a waiver of visa requirements for certain countries. In addition, you must also meet several requirements, including having valid documentation such as a passport and proof of insurance. The DHS website provides additional information on this topic.
Can I rent or return a car to Germany?
The answer to this question depends on many factors, including what type of vehicle you are renting, how long you plan to spend driving, and whether you have any special requirements for your rental car, such as child seats, etc.
You don’t have to rent a car if you drive from Munich to Zurich. A rental car may be an option for those who want to drive between Munich and Barcelona on holiday.
Is it possible to rent a car in Portugal, and then drop it off in Spain.
The answer is yes, you can do this. This is known as “car hire”. You will find many companies offering this service online.
It is enough to verify that they are licensed by the Portuguese and Spanish authorities.
Contact them on their websites for the best way to get this information. They should have all of the information that you require.
Statistics
- In 2019, the most crucial factor is the cost and fees of the rental (accounting for 28% of overall satisfaction with the rental experience), followed by the rental car itself at 25% and the pick-up process at 23%. (cnet.com)
- The perks vary from partner to partner, but you can expect discounts of up to 35 percent on some rentals and the ability to earn anywhere from 50 bonus American AAdvantage miles per day or 500 per rental. (afar.com)
- American Airlines, for example, offers AAdvantage members 35% off Budget and Avis — but you need to rent from an airport. (nerdwallet.com)
- Automatics are more expensive (usually about 50 percent more) and may only be available if you upgrade to a bigger, pricier car. (ricksteves.com)
- For canceled trips two days or shorter, a guest is charged 50% of one day’s trip cost. (insider.com)
External Links
enterprise.com
alamo.com
autoslash.com
jdpower.com
How To
The Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: 10 Tips
Renting car is one way to travel in your area at a very affordable price. Many companies offer services online as well as offline. There are many companies that offer different services, so it is important to know which type they offer before you rent a vehicle. You can choose private cars, vans, minivans, SUVs, luxury cars, etc. Some companies offer discounted rates for people who travel together. It is a good idea to read online reviews before you choose a company to rent a car. Renting a car should be booked at least one month before you need it. This will help you save money. This way, you won’t pay extra fees for booking at the last minute. It’s always worthwhile to compare prices from different companies.
Make sure to verify if the company requires you to have insurance.
If you decide to drive, make sure you have enough gas. Some companies charge higher rates per gallon. You might find yourself stuck in traffic jams if you drive outside major cities. In this case, you could consider taking public transportation. If you have lots of luggage, you might find it easier to use a shuttle or taxi. Be sure to choose a reputable company when you are considering taking a taxi. Ask for recommendations and read reviews from customers.
Remember that car rental agreements usually stipulate a mileage limit. You should carefully read your contract and verify that you are allowed to exceed the mileage limit. Know how much each mile will cost.
Most companies allow you to use the GPS navigation system for free, but you might have to pay extra for satellite radio.
You should also remember that you may not be allowed to return the vehicle until after a certain time. You should not leave valuables inside your vehicle.
Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, passport and proof of insurance when you arrive at the place where you want to pick up the rental vehicle. You must complete the paperwork correctly. A confirmation email will follow with details regarding the pickup date and times. Follow the instructions and drive the car safely after you have picked it up.
When you arrive at your destination, ensure that your car is secured. Many companies require you leave the keys at your office. The receipt is handy in case you misplace something while driving. When you’re done, go back to the office and give the receipt and all your documents. Now you are free to enjoy your vacation!
