Top Reasons Why You Should Drive Across the USA in a Rental

Embarking on a life changing journey like a road trip through the USA can be extremely rewarding. Many people are a bit scared to jump in a car and drive on roads they’ve never seen or been on. But facing your fears and grabbing the opportunity with both hands will add great value to one’s life.

One of the best countries to explore by doing an extended road trip is the United States of America. Blaring road trip songs, eating snacks, and driving on roads that not many people have been on, create quite a journey. You can experience the USA at its best when you drive away from the capital cities and explore the countryside.

Whether you are an American citizen or a tourist from another country, you can enjoy everything from scenic oceanside drives and remote dirt road explorations in the United States. Not sure what route to choose? Then follow this guide to the best US road trips the country has to offer.

Although it sounds as easy as jumping in a car and driving cross country, there’s much more you have to consider. What if your car broke down? Or if you get a flat tire in the middle of the Route 66? Well, that is why you should consider renting a car for your American road trip instead of using your own car or even borrowing a friend’s.

Reasons Why You Should Rent A Car for Your American Road Trip

The car you choose to take you on a road trip through America will have a great influence on the success of the drive. So, if you are still wondering whether you should hire a car above taking your own or traveling with a tourist company, here are a few reasons why you should definitely consider renting a vehicle.

LOWER COSTS

The IRS calculated an average per mile fee that it costs to drive a car. At $0.53 per mile a 2,000-mile trip will cost the driver about $1,070. This fee includes maintenance on the vehicle, fuel consumption, and wear and tear. This amount might increase with each year passing, but only with a few cents per mile.

If you are planning on a road trip that’s 2,000 miles, you’ll have to keep in mind that to maintain your car it will cost over $1,000. Renting a car will cost you that much less.

Typically, a rental car will cost you about $35 per day. For arguments sake, let’s say it will take you about 10 days to complete a 2,000 miles road trip; then you will end up paying $350 for rental, which is usually tax included. You’ll probably need about 80 gallons of fuel that will end up costing you about $200 in total. This brings the total of an average rental car to an approximate $550. Almost 50% cheaper than it would cost you to drive your own car.

On the plus side, rental companies usually have great travel insurance in place. This means that when the car breaks down or you are left stranded with a flat tire, that you won’t be held accountable for it. The rental company will arrange with their vehicle insurance company to deal with the problem, giving you the freedom to enjoy a carefree road trip.

VEHICLE OPTIONS

You might own a car that’s perfect to take the kids to school or to drive around in town. But is your car equipped to drive on dirt roads? When you rent a car, you have the freedom to pick an option that is perfect for your needs. Whether you want a sports car to live out your speedy convertible fantasy or a big SUV that can fit loads of luggage and sport equipment, the options are open.

Without making a commitment to buy the car, you can drive it across country while enjoying the perks it has to offer.

NO ADDED MILES

When you drive your own car, you will add mileage on your vehicle’s clock that will decrease its value. When you opt for a car rental, you won’t have to worry about hurting the resale value.

If you return the vehicle in the same condition as you got it in the first place, the wear and tear and overall value of it won’t be any of your concern. This in itself, is a great reason to choose renting.

ONE WAY

The great thing about a rental car is that you can drive it one-way. You don’t have to worry about getting it back home or at its place of origin. Renting a vehicle of your choice and then driving it from the one side of the country to the other will be great.

Especially if you are pressed for time, you don’t want to rush to make a U-turn and return the way you’ve came. Rental companies usually have different drop off and pick up stations available at most main airports and cities. Drive as far as you’d like and drop the rental on the other side.

Road Trip Ideas

If you’ve never been in USA, you might not be aware of all the great roads that are available for you to explore. Before renting a vehicle, you can consider our top two popular travel routes:

ROUTE 66

Probably one of the most popular trips one can take through America. Route 66 starting point is in Lake Michigan and after two weeks you’ll find yourself in Los Angeles. Top attractions on this route includes the Texas Cadillac Ranch, classic American diners, and the world’s largest rocking chair.

Driving through Arizona, Oklahoma, and Illinois, the Route 66 road trip is perfect for those wanting to experience America’s outback.

PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY

For those who want to explore the gorgeous coastal views, the pacific coast highway is for you. Perfect to enjoy over a long weekend driving in a convertible or a sun roof car. The drive takes about 3-4 days and begins in San Francisco.

Making your way to San Diego you will be able to see top attractions like the Big Sur National Park, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and vineyards in Solvang.

Embarking on a road trip across America can be loads of fun. Renting a vehicle of your choice will take the journey to the next level while taking away all responsibility of carrying the burden of wear and tear. On top of it all, you’ll even save a few dollars, so there really isn’t any reason why you shouldn’t book a rental for your road trip. – Travel Feeder