Why are rental cars so expensive again?


Why are rental cars so expensive again? Car rentals cost more than they did a few years ago due to many different factors, but primarily because of supply chain issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. As demand for rental cars fell, rental car companies sold segments of their fleets to stay in business during the lean times.


Is there still a rental car shortage 2023?

Through 2023 at least, limited vehicle availability will continue. However, most experts report some recovery on the horizon. There were finally early signs of increased allocation to rental fleet channels in fall 2022. Operators still need to be clever in how they source cars as we inch toward supply recovery, though.


Is it cheaper to rent a car longer or shorter?

In most cases, the daily rate goes down the longer you rent. To investigate the cost of a rental, submit some rental dates in the form above, and you'll see what car options are available and their rates.


What is the most expensive rental car company?

By almost all metrics, National Car Rental was the most expensive, followed by Alamo Rent a Car. Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Budget, Hertz and Dollar ranked among the cheapest.


How much does it cost to hire a car for a month?

Monthly car rentals cost around $1,603 per month on average. Long-term rentals typically offer more flexibility than leasing. It's cheaper to rent long-term from a non-airport location in most cases.


Why are rental cars suddenly so expensive?

Rental car prices have been surging because demand is high and supply is low, both due to the coronavirus crisis and the chip shortage. To mitigate it, I should book as soon as I'm even *thinking* about traveling somewhere. I should also avoid certain locations (especially those near nature destinations).


Why are rental cars so expensive this summer?

Car rentals cost more than they did a few years ago due to many different factors, but primarily because of supply chain issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. As demand for rental cars fell, rental car companies sold segments of their fleets to stay in business during the lean times.


Why is enterprise more expensive?

As you have noted, Enterprise do not include insurance for most rentals. They add on insurance, paid when you pick up the keys, so is not usually good value. Almost always much more expensive.


Are rental car prices negotiable?

If you're standing at the company's rental desk, and they are that close to renting you a car, they're usually willing to negotiate.