Rental Experiences

Ekta

I'm thinking of renting a car for a long road trip. What’s the longest rental period you’ve had, and were there any hidden charges or surprises during your rental?

RajeshKumar1

Renting a car for a long road trip is a fantastic idea! The longest rental period I’ve had was about 3 weeks for a cross-state road trip, and I definitely learned a few things about hidden charges and the importance of reading the fine print. Here are some potential surprises and tips to help you avoid them:

Mileage Limits
Some rental companies advertise unlimited mileage, but for long-term rentals, they sometimes impose daily or weekly mileage caps. Exceeding these limits can result in extra charges per kilometer, which can add up quickly.
Tip: Ask about mileage limits up front and confirm in writing if unlimited mileage is included.
Insurance Coverage
Rental companies offer insurance, but their policies vary. Basic insurance is often included, but it usually has a high deductible. Additional insurance options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection can reduce liability but come at an extra cost.
Tip: Check if your personal car insurance or credit card offers rental car coverage to avoid paying for unnecessary extra insurance.
Fuel Policies
Many companies have “full-to-full” or “prepaid” fuel policies. With full-to-full, you pick up and return the car with a full tank, while prepaid means you pay for a full tank upfront. Prepaid fuel can be pricey if you don’t return the car on empty.
Tip: Opt for the full-to-full policy and fill up at a local gas station just before returning the car to avoid refueling fees.
Late Return Charges
If you return the car even an hour late, you might be charged for an entire extra day, which is often much more than a prorated daily rate.
Tip: Plan your return time carefully and give yourself extra time in case of delays. Some companies offer a grace period, so ask about this in advance.
One-Way Drop Fees
If you’re planning a one-way road trip and intend to drop off the car at a different location, many companies charge a hefty one-way fee.
Tip: Look for rental companies with lower or no one-way fees, or try to return the car to the original location if possible.
Extra Driver Fees
Adding an extra driver can increase your flexibility, but some companies charge a daily fee for each additional driver.
Tip: Some rental companies allow a spouse or domestic partner to drive for free, so ask about this. If multiple people will be driving, compare the costs of rental companies that offer free additional drivers.
Taxes and Location Fees
Airport pickups and certain cities may have extra surcharges. These fees can range from airport concession fees to local taxes, and they can be quite steep.
Tip: Picking up the car from a location outside the airport can sometimes save money, even with a short taxi ride to reach the rental office.
Cross-Border Fees
If you’re planning to cross state or international borders, check the rental agreement. Some companies restrict cross-border travel, while others charge an extra fee for it.
Tip: Always inform the rental company about your travel plans to avoid breaching the contract and facing penalties.
Cleaning Fees
Rental companies may charge a cleaning fee if the car is returned excessively dirty or with sand, pet hair, or spilled food.
Tip: Before returning the car, do a quick clean-up, especially if you’re coming back from a beach or a dusty area.
Security Deposit Hold
A security deposit is often blocked on your credit card, and it can take several days or even weeks for the hold to be released after you return the car.
Tip: Ensure you have enough credit limit available, and check with the rental company about when the deposit will be refunded.
Overall, long-term car rentals can be cost-effective for road trips if you’re aware of potential charges. Reading the rental agreement carefully, asking questions up front, and doing a quick inspection before leaving the rental lot can save you from unexpected fees and surprises on your journey. Safe travels and enjoy the adventure!

Iloveride

Renting a car for a long road trip is a great idea, but long-term rentals often come with hidden charges and restrictions that many renters overlook.

🔹 Common Long-Term Rental Durations

Daily Rental (1-7 days) – Standard pricing
Weekly Rental (7-30 days) – Discounts often apply
Monthly Rental (30+ days) – Usually the best value for money
Subscription Plans (3-12 months) – Some companies like Zoomcar, Revv, Myles, and Indrive offer car subscriptions

Many companies cap self-drive rentals at 3 months, after which you may need to renew the contract.

🔍 Hidden Charges & Surprises to Watch Out For

🚨 1. Security Deposit

Many companies block an amount on your credit/debit card (₹5,000–₹25,000).
Refunds can take 7-15 days after returning the car.

🚨 2. Limited Kilometers

Some rentals allow free kilometers per day (e.g., 250 km/day).
Exceeding limits costs ₹5–₹15/km extra.
Pro Tip: Opt for unlimited mileage plans if traveling long distances.

🚨 3. Fuel Policy

Some rentals come with a full tank but must be returned with the same fuel level.
If not refueled, they charge ₹20–₹30/liter, which is higher than petrol pump rates.

🚨 4. Interstate Travel Charges

If you’re crossing state borders, entry permits & taxes apply (e.g., Karnataka to Kerala charges extra).
Some rental companies do not allow interstate travel.

🚨 5. Toll & FASTag Charges

Some companies provide FASTag, but you need to pay tolls separately.
Pro Tip: Ask if tolls are prepaid to avoid cash handling.

🚨 6. Late Return Fees

Returning the car even 1 hour late can cost an entire extra day’s rental.
Some rentals offer a 1-2 hour grace period, but confirm beforehand.

🚨 7. Damage Charges & Insurance Confusion

Rentals include basic insurance, but you must pay for damages unless you take a zero-deposit damage cover.
Scratches, dents, or flat tires can cost extra if not covered under insurance.

🚨 8. Cleaning Fees

If you return a very dirty car, they may charge ₹500–₹2,000 for interior cleaning.

🚗 Best Rental Platforms for Long Trips in India

✅ Zoomcar – Monthly rental plans with unlimited mileage options.
✅ Revv – Flexible daily, weekly, and subscription-based plans.
✅ Myles – Affordable self-drive rental with a variety of vehicles.
✅ Indrive Rental – Recently launched self-drive option in India.
✅ IndusGo – Available in Kerala, Chennai, and Bangalore.

✅ Pro Tips Before Renting for a Long Trip

✔️ Compare Prices – Check multiple platforms for the best deal.
✔️ Inspect the Car Before Taking It – Take photos/videos to avoid false damage claims.
✔️ Read Terms & Conditions – Confirm cancellation/refund policies.
✔️ Plan for Fuel & Tolls – Ask about FASTag and fuel policies upfront.
✔️ Get Roadside Assistance – Some rentals charge extra for 24/7 support.

🚀 My Experience & Verdict

🔹 The longest I rented was 45 days from Zoomcar – No issues but had to prepay tolls & refuel before return.
🔹 Hidden cleaning charges & late return fees were a surprise in Myles rentals.
🔹 Revv had best monthly pricing, but mileage was limited.

Would you like recommendations for a specific route or best rental in your city? 🚗😊