A rental car is almost a must on a USA road trip, the distances are huge and having your own car is freedom itself. When booking, though, there are a few things that decide between a relaxed or an expensive vacation.
Book Early and as a Package
Rental cars are often cheapest when you book early and through a German tour operator or broker, ideally including all the important insurance. Insurance added on site is considerably more expensive.
Insurance Is the Most Important Part
Two things must be included: full coverage with no deductible (CDW) and high supplemental liability insurance (SLI, ideally over one million US dollars). The liability coverage legally included in the USA is far too low. When booking, make sure you have both.
The Right Vehicle
For two people with suitcases, a Full Size is often the better choice than a midsize car, especially with larger hard shell suitcases. Better to plan a bit bigger, US trunks are often smaller than expected. Also check the rental terms: driving on gravel and unpaved roads is not allowed with many providers, which can matter in the Southwest.
Fueling and Driving
Fuel is cheap, but you often have to pay inside first or enter a US zip code that your card does not have, in which case going to the register helps. The speed limit is taken seriously, and at four way stops the rule is: whoever arrived first goes first.
Tolls and Parking
In some regions there are electronic, cashless tolls. Before you drive, find out whether your rental car has a transponder and how it is billed, otherwise fees get added later.
