Nobody wants boundaries especially when it comes to a trip and covering miles with loved ones. Like, renting a car allows you to travel at your own pace and most people think they can drive as much as they want without extra charges.
But “Do rental cars charge per mile?” The answer is not always “yes or no.” It depends on the company, the type of rental, and your signed agreement.
While some rental companies offer unlimited mileage, others may charge you per mile. This can increase the cost of your rental, especially on long trips.
Keep reading this article with us to know how mileage charges work, how to avoid them, and which rental companies offer the best deals. This article will surely help you save money and make a better decision for your trip.
How Do Mileage Charges Work in Car Rentals?
Most rental car companies offer two types of mileage policies. These two options can help you pick the right rental car according to your needs.:
- Unlimited Mileage: In this plan, you can drive as much as you like without any extra fees. It is the most convenient option, especially for long trips or road trips.
- Limited Mileage: Some companies set a daily mileage limit. If you go over that limit, they charge you per extra mile. This generally happens with special vehicles or others that come with discounted prices.
Most rental companies follow two types of mileage plans:
| Mileage Plan | What Does It Mean? | Best For? |
| Unlimited Mileage | Drive as much as you want with no extra fees. | Long road trips, vacations |
| Limited Mileage | You get a fixed number of miles per day. If you exceed, you pay per extra mile. | Short local trips |
Do All Rental Companies Charge Per Mile?
Not all rental car companies charge per mile. In fact, many major companies, like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise, usually offer unlimited mileage in the basic rental packages or deals for regular cars. But, special vehicles like luxury cars, SUVs, or trucks may come with mileage restrictions.
Note:
- Always read the terms before you book a rental car to avoid any per-mile charges later.
- Luxury SUVs, sports cars, and trucks usually come with mileage limits!
Rental Companies with Their Best Mileage Policies
Before booking, always compare the mileage policies to ensure you are getting the best deal for your trip.
- Hertz: Most rentals come with unlimited mileage, but luxury and special cars do not.
- Enterprise: Enterprise’s most regular rentals include unlimited mileage, but some cars may have limits.
- Avis: Like Hertz, Avis provides unlimited mileage for most rentals, but some conditions apply. Luxury or special cars may come with limits.
- Budget: Budget has options for both unlimited and limited mileage. You can see the details when you book. You can find limits on its premium or discounted vehicles.
- Alamo: Alamo is well-known for offering unlimited mileage on most of their cars.
Here’s a quick look at rental companies’ mileage policies:
| Rental Company | Unlimited Mileage? | Mileage Limits? |
| Hertz | Most rentals | Luxury & specialty cars |
| Enterprise | Most rentals | Some vehicles have limits |
| Avis | Most rentals | High-end & sports cars |
| Budget | Regular cars | Premium & discounted cars |
| Alamo | Most cars | Few exceptions |
Why Do Some Car Rental Companies Charge Per Mile?
Some companies charge per mile to cover wear and tear on the vehicle. This is especially for premium cars, trucks, or rentals meant for industrial use.
Money that comes from mile charges can help the company recover some of the costs of maintaining vehicles that customers have driven a lot.
Also, limited mileage plans are usually cheaper than unlimited plans, which can attract customers who do not plan to drive long distances and want a rental car with a lower daily rate.
Some rental companies charge per mile to cover:
- Vehicle wear and tear (especially for premium or commercial vehicles).
- Maintenance costs for frequently driven cars.
- Discounted rental prices, which come with limits to balance costs.
Know Also: Benefits of Car Rentals with Insurance
How Much Do Rental Car Companies Charge for Extra Miles?
If your rental comes with a limited mileage plan, it can be very costly to exceed the limit later. The per-mile charge depends on the company and the vehicle.
On average, you may be charged between $0.15 to $0.30 per extra mile. This extra cost can increase the overall cost quickly so it is important to review your mileage limit if you are under a limited plan.
If your rental has limited mileage, crossing the limit can be expensive:
| Company | Extra Mile Cost |
| Hertz | $0.25 – $0.50 per mile |
| Enterprise | $0.15 – $0.40 per mile |
| Avis | $0.20 – $0.45 per mile |
| Budget | $0.18 – $0.35 per mile |
Note: If you plan to drive long distances, always pick unlimited mileage!
Read Also: Is Car Rental 8 Legit and Safe
How to Avoid Per-Mile Charges on a Rented Car?
Yes, you can save yourself from paying extra for mileage. There are several ways to avoid it:
- Choose Unlimited Mileage Plans: Many companies offer this option, especially for regular cars. It allows you to drive without worrying about limits.
- Check Mileage Limit: If your rental car has a mileage cap, keep an eye on the odometer. Choose your routes carefully to stay under that limit.
- Prepay for Extra Miles: Some companies allow you to prepay for extra miles at a discounted rate. This can be more affordable than paying after the rental period.
- Rent Locally: If you only need the car for short trips, choose a lower mileage plan. This can help reduce costs if you do not plan to drive far.
Read Also: Will Insurace Company Pay For a Rental Car After an Accident
Do Long-Term Rentals Charge Per Mile?
Mileage policies can be different for long-term rentals. Some companies offer unlimited mileage even for long periods, but others may set limits.
Generally, long-term rentals, like for a month or more, come with strict mileage restrictions. You may have a daily or weekly mileage limit and pay charges if you cross it.
It depends! Some long-term rentals (1+ months) allow unlimited mileage, while others have:
- Weekly or monthly mileage limits (e.g., 3,000 miles per month).
- Extra charges for exceeding the limit (just like daily rentals).
Do Special Vehicles Have Mileage Limits?
Special vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, or luxury cars have mileage limits. These vehicles are more expensive to maintain, and rental companies adjust that cost with the help of per-mile charges paid by the customers.
If you are renting any such vehicle, please double-check the mileage policy. These rentals usually come with lower daily rates but higher fees for extra miles you drive.
Yes! High-end and special vehicles often come with mileage caps. These rentals usually have mileage restrictions:
| Vehicle Type | Mileage Policy |
| Luxury Cars | Often limited mileage |
| Trucks & SUVs | Can have mileage limits |
| Sports Cars | Almost always per-mile charges |
Can You Negotiate Mileage Charges?
In some cases, you might be able to bargain mileage charges, especially if you are a frequent customer or booking for a long period. You can call the rental company and ask about special plans or discounts.
This can sometimes give you better deals. Also, if you explain your travel needs, the company may be willing to offer unlimited mileage or lower per-mile rates.
Yes! You can sometimes bargain for a better deal, especially if:
- You are a frequent renter
- You book for a long period
- You ask about discounts or promotions
Know Also: Who Pays for the Damages If I Crash a Rental Car without Insurance
Watch Out for Other Hidden Rental Cars Fees!
When you rent a car, be careful about hidden fees. Like, fuel charges can surprise you if you do not return the car with a full tank.
Also, late return fees can increase the rental costs if you return the car late. Some rental companies might also offer extra insurance that raises your bill. So, be clever to avoid hidden charges.
Extra mileage fees are not the only hidden costs! Be careful about:
| Hidden Fee | What It Is? | How to Avoid? |
| Fuel Charges | If you don’t return the car with a full tank. | Refill before returning! |
| Late Return Fees | If you return the car late. | Return on time! |
| Extra Insurance | Sometimes added automatically. | Check before signing! |
Conclusion
So, do rental cars charge per mile? It depends on the rental agreement and the vehicle. Most standard car rentals include unlimited mileage, which is ideal for long trips. However, special and discounted vehicles may have mileage limits, and it can be expensive if you cross those limits.
To avoid hidden mile charges in the future, always read the terms of your rental agreement carefully and choose a plan that fits your travel needs. If you understand how mileage charges work, you can save money and enjoy your trip without any worries.
Frequently Asked Questions of Rental Cars Charges Per Mile
Some rental cars have unlimited mileage, but others charge per mile if you exceed a set limit. Always check your rental agreement.
You can find this in the rental terms during booking or ask the rental company.
You will pay a fee per extra mile. The rate is in your rental agreement.
Yes, many companies offer both. Pick unlimited for long trips and limited for short ones.
Yes, some companies have cost calculators to help you choose the best option.
