10 Best Rental Car Companies in the USA for 2023
Whether road tripping cross-country or needing wheels for a weekend getaway, having a reliable rental car can make all the difference in your travel experience. With countless options to choose from, it helps to focus on the top national brands that consistently deliver quality vehicles and service.
This guide will highlight the 10 best rental car companies in the USA based on factors like customer satisfaction, pricing, vehicle selection and policies. We'll break down the key strengths of the major national brands along with tips for getting your best rental experience.
How We Evaluate the Top Rental Car Companies
Several key criteria determine which providers rank as the leading rental car companies across America:
- Reputation and Reviews - Brands with higher consumer satisfaction scores and positive customer feedback.
- Wide Airport Presence - Major national and international brands with rental counters at most major airports.
- Pricing and Fees - Companies that offer competitive base pricing along with lower add-on fees.
- Vehicle Options - Rental fleet variety from budget economy cars up to luxury vehicles.
- Policy Flexibility - Brands that offer perks like unlimited mileage, one-way rentals, early returns, etc.
- Service and Support - Highly rated support channels and roadside assistance.
- Technology Offerings - Convenient digital booking tools, apps and contactless rental options.
Using these benchmarks, here are the rental car brands that rise to the top for travelers in the US.
1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car
With almost 7,000 neighborhood and airport rental locations across the US, Enterprise dominates the market through unmatched convenience for business and leisure travelers alike.
Key Strengths:
- Huge fleet with everything from compact cars to heavy duty trucks
- Free pick-up for repairs/service issues
- Roadside assistance with loaner cars as needed
- Streamlined booking online or via mobile app
- Very flexible policies on mileage, early/late returns, one-way rentals
Enterprise continues to lead in customer satisfaction by making the rental process smooth and providing exceptional service throughout. Just be aware that airport locations tack on higher fees than neighborhood branches. Joining the Emerald Club loyalty program provides access to the fastest "We'll Pick You Up" counter service.
2. Alamo Rent A Car
Alamo stands out for offering unlimited mileage on most rentals along with top-rated service. They focus solely on airport locations versus neighborhood outlets.
Key Strengths:
- No mileage restrictions for worry-free road tripping
- Prime airport pick-up locations near terminals
- Wide selection of vehicle classes and upgrades
- Free additional driver and early return policy
- Straightforward booking online or through their app
Alamo has cultivated brand loyalty by refusing to nickel and dime customers on every little thing. If you prioritize freedom and simplicity for airport rentals over getting the absolute lowest base rate, Alamo is a solid bet. Joining their Insiders club provides expedited service and discounts.
3. National Car Rental
The premium brand owned by Enterprise, National positions itself as an upscale luxury rental service with high-end vehicle options and superior service.
Key Strengths:
- Emerald Executive elite tiers provide VIP treatment
- Luxury cars from brands like BMW, Mercedes, Audi
- Complimentary delivery of cars to airports
- Generous frequent renter program perks
- Car rental packages tailored for events/meetings
While pricing is not as budget-friendly, National caters to travelers who want a premium rental experience. Booking Executive status gains you access to amenities like free upgrades, airline miles, and exclusive offers. Those perks help justify the higher rates.
4. Avis Rent A Car
An internationally recognized brand, Avis strives to make the car rental journey seamless through technology.
Key Strengths:
- Avis mobile app speeds up pick-up/drop-off
- Connected cars with features like door unlock
- Instant sign-up for Preferred loyalty program
- Choice Privileges ties into hotel/airline points -Complementary roadside assistance protection
Avis shines through innovations that save customers time and hassle at every step of the process. Look out for targeted promotions like weekend deals, fuel discounts, and multi-day specials.
5. Hertz Rental Car
As one of the largest and most established brands worldwide, Hertz provides consistent quality along with specialty rental options.
Key Strengths:
- "Hertz Gold Plus Rewards" loyalty program perks
- Wide selection of luxury, sports, and specialty vehicles
- Service provided in over 150 countries
- Mobile app and online booking quick and easy
- Environmentally-friendly rental choices
Hertz maintains a diverse modern fleet that includes hybrid and electric models. While pricing is often higher than competitors, extras like their premium car selection and global presence appeal to many travelers.
6. Budget Car Rental
True to its name, Budget places affordability at the forefront while still delivering solid service.
Key Strengths:
- Focus on lowest base rates for penny pinchers
- Low-price guarantee matches/beats competitors
- Budget Fastbreak service for speedy rentals
- Good selection of economy vehicles
- Easy online/app booking process
Budget keeps things simple by offering the essentials of a quality rental car without frills. You may face added fees for things like refueling and extra drivers, so review policies carefully. Overall a reliable choice for basic transportation needs.
7. Dollar Rent A Car
Another value-oriented brand, Dollar shines through promotions and partnerships aimed at saving customers money.
Key Strengths:
- Dollar Express Rental program for quicker pick-up
- Partnerships with airlines, hotels for deals
- Loyalty program rewards frequent renters
- Rental car packages to save on longer rentals
- Straightforward mobile app and online experience
Dollar isn't always the absolute cheapest when you factor in fees, but their offers like weekend specials and bonus frequent renter points can help maximize savings. A decent budget option for airport and neighborhood outlet rentals.
8. Thrifty Car Rental
Thrifty prides themselves on unbeatable prices, though their older fleet doesn't provide a luxury experience.
Key Strengths:
- Some of the lowest base rental rates available
- Airport locations often closer than competitor brands
- Streamlined mobile app and online booking
- Optional liability insurance packages
- Blue Chip service provides expedited pick-up
Given its budget pricing and limited frills, Thrifty works best for cost-conscious travelers who just need basic transportation from point A to point B. Younger vehicles are less common, so inspect thoroughly at pick-up for prior damage.
9. Sixt Rent a Car
Originally based in Germany, Sixt has expanded across the US and abroad with affordable rates and great service.
Key Strengths:
- Competitive pricing, especially for longer rentals
- Good student and senior discounts offered
- Generous loyalty program benefits
- Sports and luxury car rentals available
- Mobile app and online booking simple
Sixt allows spouse or partner as additional drivers free of charge. Given its growth and focus on customer satisfaction through technology, expect Sixt to continue rising in prominence as a rental car leader.
10. Advantage Rent a Car
A smaller brand that offers major savings in exchange for fewer frills, Advantage can be ideal for cost-conscious travelers.
Key Strengths:
- Low base rates with price match guarantee
- Free membership in Advantage Club
- No fee for additional drivers on rentals
- Free cancellation on most reservations
- Airport shuttle service to select locations
Advantage has fewer airport locations than bigger brands, but still serves all major metro areas. If you simply want the cheapest dependable rental car without extras, Advantage delivers solid value. Just know their fleet tends to be older.
Tips for Getting the Best Rental Experience
Regardless of which company you go with, you can maximize your rental satisfaction by keeping these top tips in mind:
- Join loyalty programs for perks like expedited service and free days
- Reserve 4-6 weeks out for optimum availability and low prices
- Read policies carefully to avoid hidden fees
- Use a rental aggregator site to compare prices
- Consider neighborhood locations to avoid airport surcharges
- Review insurance needs instead of paying for duplicative coverage
- Inspect thoroughly at pick-up and document any prior damage
- Fill the tank before returning to avoid inflated refueling charges
- Extend if needed since daily rates are cheaper than late charges
Choosing the right rental company is pivotal, but following these simple guidelines will also let you make the most of the experience.
FAQs
Still have questions about navigating the rental car landscape? Here are answers to commonly asked questions:
How old do I need to be to rent a car?
In most states the minimum age to rent a vehicle is 21 years, while drivers under 25 often face added young renter fees.
What form of payment do rental car companies accept?
A credit card in your name must be presented to rent a vehicle - debit cards usually aren't accepted. Cash or prepaid cards cannot be used.
Are there additional driver fees?
Most major brands allow spouse or partners to drive at no cost. Otherwise plan on a daily fee around $10-15 per extra authorized driver added.
Can I use my own insurance instead of the rental company's?
Likely yes, but your personal policy may only cover liability protection. Check to avoid paying for duplicative damage coverage.
How far in advance should I book a rental car?
Ideally 4-6 weeks prior provides the best availability and rates. But even a few days notice can save substantially over walk-up rentals.
While rental cars might seem like a commodity, choosing the right provider can greatly enhance or detract from your travels. Use these tips and company rankings to start your next road trip out on the smoothest footing.
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