Expensive car rentals

Question

There have been quite a few comments on the cost of renting a car . Well it could get more expensive

Maui visitors could soon face a staggering 52 percent in total taxes and fees on rental cars under a new proposal in the Hawaii State Legislature. The plan would add an additional $3 daily surcharge on top of existing fees, potentially making Maui one of the most expensive places in the U.S. to rent a car.

The rational of the additional surcharge is to pay for the building and maintaining of the Kaanapali North bypass

Answer

The proposal to impose a 52% total tax and fee surcharge on rental cars in Maui would indeed make it one of the most expensive places in the U.S. to rent a car. If enacted, the additional $3 daily surcharge would significantly increase the overall cost of renting a car, especially for those planning extended stays on the island.

The Proposal

The surcharge is part of a plan introduced in the Hawaii State Legislature aimed at funding the construction and maintenance of the Kaanapali North bypass, a major infrastructure project. This highway will help alleviate traffic congestion and improve transportation around the Kaanapali area, which is a major tourist destination on Maui. The new fees would not only apply to rental cars but could affect visitors who depend on rental cars for exploring the island's diverse landscapes and attractions.

Impact on Visitors

The added surcharge could have a significant impact on travelers' budgets. Car rental costs in Maui have already been on the higher end due to increased demand and limited supply, especially since the pandemic. With these proposed increases, Maui might become one of the most expensive car rental locations in the U.S., competing with destinations like Alaska and major cities in California, where taxes and fees on rental cars can also be high.

Alternatives and Suggestions

Consider renting a car outside of peak tourist seasons when rates are generally lower, or book your rental in advance to secure better rates.
Explore options such as ride-sharing services (Uber or Lyft), which could be more cost-effective for short stays or if you only plan to visit specific areas on the island.
If you plan to stay in a specific region of Maui, such as Wailea or Kaanapali, you might find that local transportation, shuttles, and walking distances to attractions can reduce your need for a rental car.
Look into car rental companies that may offer special discounts or packages for longer stays, which could offset the additional fees.

Stay Updated

It's important to stay informed about the legislative process and potential changes to rental car fees in Maui. While the proposal is still in the works, tracking local news and updates from the Hawaii State Legislature will give you a better idea of when and if the surcharge will be implemented. Additionally, contacting car rental companies directly may provide clarity on how the new fees could affect bookings and reservations.

As always, it's a good idea to plan ahead and budget accordingly, considering not just the car rental itself but also the potential increase in taxes and fees, as well as any other added costs associated with your trip to Maui.