Rental Car Traps: How to Avoid Surprise Fees and Find the Best Deals

Common Rental Car Traps

1. Airport Surcharges and Facility Fees

Renting at airport locations often comes with “concession recovery fees” or “facility charges,” typically 10–15% of the base rate. A 2024 NerdWallet analysis noted these fees can add $10–$30 per day at major airports like LAX or Miami International.

• How to Avoid: Book at off-airport locations (e.g., a downtown or hotel branch) and take a shuttle or rideshare to pick up the car. Savings can reach $50–$100 for a week-long rental.

2. Upsells on Insurance

Rental companies push collision damage waivers (CDW) or liability insurance, costing $10–$30 per day. These often duplicate coverage you already have through your auto insurance or credit card.

• How to Avoid: Check your existing auto insurance policy or credit card benefits (e.g., Chase Sapphire or Amex Platinum) for rental car coverage. Decline add-ons unless you’re certain you need them. Confirm coverage with your provider before renting.

3. Prepaid Fuel Plans

Prepaid fuel options sound convenient but often charge above-market rates for gas, sometimes $4–$6 per gallon, per a 2025 Kayak report. You also pay for a full tank, even if you return the car half-full.

• How to Avoid: Opt for the “return full” policy and refuel at a nearby gas station before dropping off. Use apps like GasBuddy to find cheap stations, saving $20–$50 per rental.

4. Additional Driver Fees

Adding a spouse or friend as an authorized driver can cost $5–$15 per day, according to AAA’s 2025 rental guide. Some companies charge this even for family members.

• How to Avoid: Book with companies like Enterprise or Hertz, which waive additional driver fees for spouses in certain states (e.g., California). Join loyalty programs like National Emerald Club, which often include free additional drivers for members.

5. Young Driver Fees

Drivers under 25 face surcharges of $15–$25 per day, per a 2024 Expedia analysis, significantly hiking costs for younger travelers.

• How to Avoid: Rent with companies like Sixt or Turo, which may have lower or no young driver fees. Alternatively, book through AAA or AARP memberships, which can waive these fees for members.

6. Toll and GPS Charges

Electronic toll passes or GPS rentals can cost $3–$15 per day, and unused toll passes may still incur a daily fee, per posts on X in 2025.

• How to Avoid: Use your own toll pass (e.g., E-ZPass) or pay tolls directly online. Rely on free navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze instead of renting a GPS.

How to Find the Best Rental Car Deals

1. Compare Prices Across Platforms: Use sites like Kayak, Priceline, or Autoslash to compare rates from multiple companies. A 2025 Skyscanner study found savings of up to 30% by booking through aggregators vs. directly with rental companies.

2. Book Early: Reserve 2–3 months in advance for peak travel seasons (summer, holidays) to lock in lower rates. Last-minute bookings can cost 20–40% more, per Hopper data.

3. Join Loyalty Programs: Programs like Hertz Gold or Enterprise Plus offer discounts, free upgrades, and waived fees (e.g., additional drivers). Membership is usually free.

4. Use Discount Codes: Apply corporate, AAA, or military codes for 10–20% off. Check sites like RetailMeNot or posts on X for current codes.

5. Consider Peer-to-Peer Rentals: Platforms like Turo or Getaround often have lower base rates and fewer fees, with savings of 15–25% compared to traditional rentals, per a 2024 Turo report.

6. Check for Inclusive Packages: Some companies bundle insurance or toll passes into promotional rates, reducing add-on costs. Look for deals on Expedia or Travelzoo.

Pro Tips for Stress-Free Rentals

• Read the Fine Print: Review the rental agreement for fees, mileage limits, and return policies before signing.

• Inspect the Car: Document pre-existing damage with photos to avoid false charges. A 2025 BBB report noted 1,200 complaints against major rental companies for disputed damage claims.

• Return on Time: Late returns can trigger fees of $10–$50 per hour. Set a reminder to drop off early.

• Use the Right Credit Card: Pay with a card offering primary rental car insurance (e.g., Chase Sapphire Reserve) to avoid buying extra coverage.

The Bottom Line

Rental car fees can sneak up like a speed bump, but you can avoid them with smart planning. Skip airport rentals, decline unnecessary insurance, refuel yourself, and compare deals to keep costs down. By booking early, leveraging loyalty programs, and using free tools like navigation apps, you’ll drive away with both a great deal and peace of mind.