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 an automobile 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 might 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 around 20 percent among car rental companies, so reading a quick review will be time well spent once you calculate the savings.
So the question is; which rental company offers the best balance of fair price, capable customer support and reliable vehicles? I’ve researched everything for you, so continue 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 support, pricing and the reservation process. The firms are listed alphabetically and not based on personal or online preferences.
Consider this information before renting:
Insurance
One of the biggest causes for complaints is from the stack of unforeseen charges presented to the renter once standing at the rental company’s counter. Vacationers are usually tired after a long flight and then are confronted by costs which were not anticipated, explained or budgeted.
Topping the set of grievances is the non-disclosure of fees associated with the mandatory third-party insurance at the time the reservation is made.
In accordance with 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 around double the vehicle’s rental cost. The only guarantee against insurance confusion would be to inquire if your estimate includes the third party insurance and insist on a written quotation.
Cost of Mandatory Insurance (also known as Third Party or SLI)
Be prepared to pay between $12 and $15 daily for this insurance, with respect to the make and model of the rented vehicle and the rental car agency. This is the legal condition of your 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.
exotic car rental miami (CDW)
As the name suggests, this isn’t insurance, but a waiver, which relieves the renter from any liability for damage to the rental car following the deductible is paid (usually from $750 to $1,500). Some agencies require renters to purchase their CDW policy; thereby negating any credit card program. For yet another fee, many agencies do offer a zero liability option where the renter will be free of paying for any harm to the automobile. Some companies may put pressure upon renters to get the zero liability coverage; however, it really is entirely optional, unless it is in the fine print of their rental agreement.
Credit card insurance programs may cover the CDW for accommodations vehicle. Consult with your chosen rental car company to find which proof of insurance is necessary and then request that from your credit card company ahead of arriving. If you use your credit card’s CDW policy, expect to pay a higher 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 very important consider that if using CDW coverage provided 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.