Should You Rent a Car for Vacation?

In the city

If you’re heading to a major urban destination, such as New York, San Francisco, or Chicago, it’s likely best to just skip the car. Such cities are designed with public transportation like subways and buses as well as plenty of rideshare options. Many of their major neighborhoods are also very walkable, with numerous attractions concentrated within small areas. On top of that, renting a car there may cause more stress than convenience, thanks to the often expensive hotel parking rates, limited street parking, and traffic congestion.

In small towns

Whether renting a car in a small town is worthwhile depends largely on how spread out the area is and how you plan on spending your time. Some destinations like Jackson, Wyoming, and Bar Harbor, Maine, are compact and designed with tourists in mind, so if you’re staying near the center of town, you may not need a car at all since you could simply walk to each spot. But if your accommodations are far from the local offerings, a vehicle gives you the flexibility to see major sites without worrying about how you’ll get there. Before deciding, look up the destination’s walkability, availability of rideshares or taxis, and whether your lodging offers shuttle services to and from the airport. This information will help you determine if you need a rented ride during your trip.

In remote destinations

For many beach retreats, mountain getaways, and countryside escapes outside of major cities, having a car is often a requirement, especially since many of these areas don’t have nearby airports or public transportation and attractions can be miles apart. A vehicle allows you the freedom to take scenic drives, visit lesser-known restaurants and shops, or stock up on groceries without relying on infrequent (possibly even nonexistent) local delivery services. For more flexibility, privacy, and control over your schedule, renting is the way to go.

Rental options

If you do decide to go this route, you have more choices than ever. Traditional rental agencies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis are reliable and easy to locate at airports and in most major cities. They also often offer roadside assistance and a variety of vehicle types to choose from. For a more customized experience, consider a peer-to-peer platform like Turo, which lets you rent directly from car owners, possibly featuring unique models or lower rates.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to deciding whether to rent a car for your vacation. However, by thinking through your itinerary and options in advance, you can make the choice that best suits your needs—maximizing the relaxing vibes of a good trip while minimizing stress.