Why My BEST CAR RENTAL Is Better Than Yours
Car rental is a hot topic for vacationers headed to Costa Rica. Recent research conducted by the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism (ICT) indicates that, after accommodations, renting a car may be the largest expense, averaging $702 for an eleven-day vacation.
The Internet is buzzing with negative reviews discussing overcharging, poor customer support and mechanical breakdowns. You may have even written one yourself!
An average midsize (3 - 4 adults) 4X4 rental runs between $58 and $65 daily with third party insurance and rates can vary just as much as 20 percent among car rental companies, so reading a quick review will be time well spent as soon as you calculate the savings.
Therefore the question is; which rental company supplies the best balance of fair price, capable customer service and reliable vehicles? I've researched everything for you, so keep reading!
Disclosure: This research was conducted in May - July 2013. The next companies were selected because they are the most trusted in Costa Rica. Some are local companies; others are international franchises of recognized brands. Comparisons include: customer service, pricing and the reservation process. The firms are listed alphabetically rather than predicated on personal or online preferences.
Consider this information before renting:
Insurance
One of the primary causes for complaints is from the stack of unforeseen charges presented to the renter once standing at the rental company's counter. Vacationers are typically tired following a long flight and are confronted by costs which were not anticipated, explained or budgeted.
Topping the list of grievances may be the non-disclosure of fees associated with the mandatory third-party insurance at the time the reservation is made.
According to Costa Rican law, every driver must carry liability coverage to insure against injuries to third parties. Car rental companies generally avoid disclosing the cost of this policy in the quoted rental rate to seem more competitive. Mandatory third-party insurance can often be as much as double the vehicle's rental cost. The only guarantee against insurance confusion would be to inquire if your estimate includes the 3rd party insurance and insist upon a written quotation.
Cost of Mandatory Insurance (also known as Third Party or SLI)
Expect to pay between $12 and $15 daily because of this insurance, depending on the make and model of the rented vehicle and the rental car agency. It is a legal condition of one's rental agreement and is normally not covered by bank cards and cannot be waived. It's a fact of renting a car in Costa Rica.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
As the name suggests, this is not insurance, but a waiver, which relieves the renter from any liability for damage to the rental car after the deductible is paid (usually from $750 to $1,500). rent a car otopeni no credit card require renters to get their CDW policy; thereby negating any credit card program. For an additional fee, many agencies do provide a zero liability option where in fact the renter will be free of paying for any damage to the car. Some companies may put pressure upon renters to purchase the zero liability coverage; however, it is entirely optional, unless it is in the fine print of their rental agreement.
Credit card insurance programs may cover the CDW for a rental vehicle. Consult with your chosen rental car company to get which proof of insurance is needed and then request that from your own credit card company prior to arriving. If you use your credit card's CDW policy, be prepared to pay an increased deposit on the vehicle; around $1,500 to $2000 is common. The higher deposit ensures that the credit card holder has enough financial reserves to cover damages if needed. It is important to consider that if using CDW coverage supplied by a credit card (in lieu of the rent an automobile operator), all damages will undoubtedly be billed to the renter's credit card. The credit card company will then reimburse the card holder for damages.
