Four Reasons Why Car Rental is Perfect for a Family Road Trip

After days of deliberation, you finally decide on a destination for your family road trip. The location and activities are certain to be fun, but that's only half the story. You want to reach your destination with a smile on your face, but hours or possibly even days in the car might make that a challenge. The vehicle you drive is equally important to the success of your trip, especially a long one with the whole family in tow. But then you think: can you rent a car for a road trip? The answer is - you sure can! In fact, renting a car on a long-distance trip can be better than taking your own car. Consider these important factors the next time you’re planning a family road trip.

Rentals May Cost Less

If you ever wondered what it costs to drive a car, the IRS has an answer. The established rate of 62.5 cents per mile for gasoline, maintenance and general wear and tear on a family vehicle means a 2,000-mile trip costs about $1250. This rate rarely fluctuates more than a few cents per mile.

For a rental, a 2,000-mile trip spread across 10 days at a rate of $35 per day (including taxes and fees) costs $350. The EPA indicates the average vehicle achieves about 25 miles per gallon, so the trip requires about 80 gallons of gasoline. Gas prices vary across the country and frequently change, but if you assume a cost of $3.65 per gallon, you will pay about $300 for fuel. That brings the total cost of the rental and gas to approximately $650. This is about half the cost of driving the family car with maintenance and wear and tear factored into the price. Also, the Hertz fleet includes agile and high-performance vehicles of all kinds. If your family car is a bit dated, it could result in an extra expense on a long trip. 

Gain Necessary Space

All trips are not created equal. Driving your daughter to college requires more room than packing up your family for a day at the beach. If you’re looking for more legroom for your upcoming road trip, check out the vehicles in our SUV/Minivan/4x4 section for that much needed extra space when heading out across the country. On the other hand, if the road trip is a romantic getaway for just the two of you, a flashy sports car like those found in our Dream Car or Adrenaline sections might be just what you need.

Do You Lease or Own?

If you lease your vehicle, you don't want to put unnecessary — and potentially costly — miles on the vehicle. Even if you own your vehicle, a long road trip may add to the wear and tear on a family car, hurting the potential resale value. Provided you return your rental in good overall condition and the same cosmetic condition it was in when you drove it out of the lot, you never have to worry about repair charges or other surprise expenses. 

Fun Factor

Taking a rental car on a long trip is a golden opportunity to try out something fun to drive and experience a new adventure. Vacations are all about fun. Start by sliding behind the wheel of a vehicle you would love to buy and see how it feels for real. If you're thinking about buying a new car, truck, or SUV, renting the vehicle for the weekend allows you to enjoy an extended test drive. Unleash your imagination and start driving the car of your dreams with a Hertz rental.

Ready to hit the road with the whole family? For even more road trip suggestions, check out our other blog posts:

• How to Survive a Road Trip with Kids
• Tips for Road-tripping with Kids