One-way rentals: how to keep the drop fee down
- Compare companies and drop-off points. Drop fees vary widely. Returning to a big airport is often cheaper than a small town.
- Try both directions. Rental companies need to move cars around: when many cars pile up in one region, rentals out of that region can be cheaper. Some companies offer seasonal one-way deals, for example out of Florida in spring.
- Check the mileage terms. One-way rentals are the ones most likely to have mileage limits.
- Crossing a border? Taking a rental into Canada is commonly allowed with notice. Mexico is often restricted and needs special insurance. Ask before you book.
Picking the car
For long days on the highway, a midsize sedan or small SUV balances comfort, luggage space and fuel economy. A larger car can cost more in gas than you save on the rate. Budget the fuel with the calculator on Gas Saving Tips: divide your miles by the car's highway MPG and multiply by the gas price.
Classic American drives
| Drive | Route | Plan it |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Coast Highway | San Francisco to Los Angeles or San Diego via Big Sur | 101 Things to Do in California · SF hotels · LA hotels |
| Overseas Highway | Miami to Key West across 42 bridges | 101 Things to Do in the Keys · Key West hotels |
| Historic Route 66 | Chicago to Santa Monica through St. Louis, New Mexico and Arizona | Chicago · St. Louis · New Mexico · Los Angeles |
| New England fall foliage | Boston through Massachusetts and up the coast to Maine | Boston · Massachusetts · Maine |
| Southwest parks loop | Las Vegas or Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, Sedona and Zion | Las Vegas · Phoenix · Sedona hotels |
| Florida theme parks to beaches | Orlando to Tampa Bay and the Gulf Coast | Orlando · Tampa Bay · Florida |
Find more ideas on See and Do the USA and Best of the USA, and rooms along the way on Rooms Cheap.
Book a one-way or road trip rental
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Compare one-way rentals with the drop fee and mileage terms shown up front.
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Learn about AAA →Frequently asked questions
Why are one-way rentals more expensive?
The company has to get the car back to where it is needed, so it usually adds a drop fee. The fee depends on the route and demand, and is sometimes waived on routes where the company needs to move cars.
Can I take a rental car to Canada or Mexico?
Canada is commonly allowed with notice to the rental company. Mexico is often restricted and requires Mexican liability insurance. Always check the rental terms first.
Is it cheaper to rent or use my own car for a road trip?
For long trips in an older or thirsty car, a rental with unlimited mileage can cost less once you count wear and tear. Compare the totals, and see our sister site 1 Stop Auto Shop if you're taking your own car.