Car rental from Vegas to LA

Question

Hi,

We plan to rent a car in July just for the drive from Las Vegas to LA Anaheim (before spending a couple of days with the Mouse).

Any recommendations? Companies to avoid?

Thanks

Answer

Renting a car to drive from Las Vegas to Anaheim is a great idea! The drive is about 4-5 hours depending on traffic, and having a car will give you the freedom to explore along the way. Here are some tips for car rentals and a few recommendations to make your trip smooth:

Car Rental Companies to Consider:

Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Known for its friendly service and wide selection of vehicles, Enterprise is a solid choice for your trip. They often have good deals, especially if you book in advance. They also have a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations, making it convenient to rent from Vegas and drop off in LA.
Hertz: A reliable company with a great selection of vehicles. If you're looking for a premium experience or a larger vehicle, Hertz often offers good deals on SUVs or luxury cars. They also have several convenient locations in both Vegas and Anaheim.
Budget Rent-A-Car: As the name suggests, Budget tends to offer more affordable rates. They’re a good option if you’re looking to save some money while still getting a reliable car. It’s also an option for a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to larger SUVs.
National Car Rental: National has a good reputation for customer service, and you can often find deals if you book early. They also offer a "Emerald Aisle" service, where you can choose your car from a selection of available vehicles in your class, giving you some flexibility in your choice.

Car Rental Companies to Avoid:

Thrifty: While generally affordable, Thrifty has had a number of complaints related to customer service, additional fees, and hidden charges. Some customers have also reported issues with the cleanliness and condition of their cars.
Dollar Rent-A-Car: Dollar often has low rates, but the trade-off can be a less-than-ideal rental experience. Complaints about upselling, unexpected charges, and the condition of the vehicles have been more common with Dollar than other companies.
Fox Rent A Car: While they may seem like a budget-friendly option, many customers have reported long wait times, poor customer service, and vehicle issues. The lower initial price may end up being higher due to hidden fees, making it less of a deal.

Tips for Renting a Car for Your Trip:

Book Early: Especially in July, when summer travel is in full swing, booking your car rental early can help you get a better price and avoid running into availability issues. It’s also often easier to choose your preferred vehicle type if you book in advance.
Insurance Coverage: Make sure to check with your own car insurance provider to see if your policy covers rentals. If it doesn’t, consider purchasing the rental company's insurance. Some credit cards also offer rental car insurance as a perk, so it’s worth checking with your credit card company as well.
One-Way Rental: Since you're picking up the car in Las Vegas and dropping it off in Anaheim, this is considered a one-way rental. Make sure to confirm with the rental company that there are no additional drop-off fees for this. Many companies offer one-way rentals for a reasonable fee, but it's always best to double-check in advance.

Overall, any of the major rental companies are a solid option for your trip, but it's always a good idea to read the fine print, especially when it comes to insurance and potential extra fees. Booking early can help you secure the best deal and the right car for your road trip!

Car rental from Vegas to LA

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