So, you’re planning a trip, and the time has come to pick a rental car. Easy, right?
Let’s talk about how to pick the perfect rental car for your trip—because no one wants to deal with a backseat too small for their luggage (or their legs) while navigating unfamiliar roads.
Consider Your Crew
How many people are joining you?
Two? Four? A squad of seven?
The first step in choosing the right car size is figuring out who’s coming along for the ride. If it’s just you and your significant other on a weekend getaway, you don’t need a tank.
But if it’s a family road trip, those cute little compact cars won’t cut it.
I know that sports car looks nice and goes even nicer… But can you imagine squishing three kids, luggage, and snacks into a two-door coupe? Yeah, don’t do that.
My advice? Always go a size up from what you think you need. Everyone will appreciate the extra space, especially if you end up buying more souvenirs than planned. (We’ve all been there.)
What’s the Terrain?
Now, think about where you’re going. If you’re just cruising through a city for a few days, a small car will be fine.
Easier to park, better on gas, and no need for all-wheel drive. But if you’re hitting the mountains or rough country roads, you might want something beefier.
Nobody wants to end up stuck in the mud because they opted for a tiny compact when they really needed an SUV.
And if you’re road-tripping across several states or through winding countryside, comfort is king. You’re going to want good suspension and room to stretch those legs. Trust me, your knees will thank you.
Pack Smarter, Not Harder
Luggage space is everything.
If you’re like me, you’ll pack for every possible weather condition—even for a three-day trip. (Hey, you never know!)
Take a peek at your suitcases and ask yourself: will this actually fit in the trunk of that cute convertible?
If you’re traveling light, a compact car is fine. But if you’re toting bags, strollers, and that massive coat you swear you’ll need (even in July), a midsize sedan or SUV might be more your speed.
Pro tip: Rental car companies love to advertise those tiny trunk dimensions like they’re NBD. Don’t fall for it. Get something with room to spare.
Fuel Economy—Your Wallet’s Best Friend
Nobody wants to spend their vacation budget at the gas station. If you’re driving long distances, think about fuel economy.
Smaller cars and hybrids will save you money in the long run, and they’re better for the environment, too.
But here’s a fun fact: Sometimes, larger cars (especially newer models) can be surprisingly fuel-efficient! If you can snag a hybrid SUV, you’re getting the best of both worlds.
And if gas prices are through the roof (ugh), you’ll be patting yourself on the back every time you pass a pump.
Don’t Forget the Extras
Let’s talk about those little extras you might not think of when booking a car.
First off: air conditioning. Sounds obvious, right? But depending on where you’re traveling, a fancy sports car without good A/C can turn your trip into a sweaty mess.
And then there’s the tech stuff. Need GPS? What about Bluetooth for blasting your road trip playlist?
If you’re stuck with a rental that feels like it’s from 1995, you’ll miss those modern conveniences. So, check the car’s features before you click “book.”
Think About Parking
Another key factor: where are you parking this thing?
If you’re heading into a city, a massive SUV might be overkill.
Have you tried parallel parking a behemoth in a tiny urban space? Spoiler: it’s a nightmare. Small cars are a breeze in tight spots and save you time and stress when parking is limited.
On the flip side, if you’re staying in a more rural area with wide-open parking lots, go big. Why not? You won’t have to worry about maneuvering into tight spaces.
My Golden Rule: Comfort Over Flash
We’ve all been tempted by the fancy convertible.
But here’s my honest opinion: comfort beats flash every time. Sure, driving a convertible with the top down sounds amazing—until you realize you’ve been sunburned to a crisp and you’re shouting over the wind.
If it’s not practical for your trip, save the flashy car for another time.
When in doubt, always go for comfort.
A cozy car makes long drives more bearable, and you’ll thank yourself later when you’re not cramped or juggling bags on your lap.
The right car will make the difference between a fun, stress-free trip and a “why did we rent this thing?” experience.
The Final Word
To wrap it all up: Pick a car that fits your needs, not your fantasies.
If you’re traveling light and staying in the city, go for something small and economical. If you’ve got a crew, luggage, or rough terrain to navigate, upgrade to something bigger.
And above all, always prioritize comfort over everything else.
Your road trip is about the journey, not just the destination, and the right rental car will keep you cruising happily—rather than cramped and grumpy—every mile of the way. Happy travels, my friend!