Why you should consider renting a car for your next vacation in Miami

January 26, 2017
Jess

If you’ve chosen Miami as your next vacation destination, congratulations! You’re sure to have an amazing time in this great city.

You may however, want to consider how you’ll be getting around once you arrive. After all, Miami is a sprawling city with bad traffic, and since key destinations are spread out (and many people like to get out and see some of the many great places available in Florida while they’re visiting), it’s unlikely to be feasible to use services like taxis, Uber, and Lyft.

There are a number of different car rental companies operating in Miami, such as Miles Car Rental, which has great rates for both long and short stays in the city. There are a few things to think about before renting a car though, including:

Age Restrictions

This is the case for most states within the US, and you’ll need to be at least 21 to rent a car, although many agencies will either add a large surcharge or levy, or won’t rent at all to individuals that young. If you’re over 25, it makes much more sense to rent a car in Miami since standard rental rates apply.

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Insurance

You’ll definitely need collision waiver damage coverage when you’re renting a car, and this is usually available from the car rental agency itself, although you don’t need to purchase it from them. Many credit cards will offer insurance, and your normal car insurance for home may also cover you as well.

Check it out

Before you load your luggage and kids into the car be sure to check it out to see if there is any pre-exisiting damage. All scratches and dents should be noted down, otherwise you could find that you’re liable for the damage when it’s time to return the vehicle.

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Return smart

Find out exactly which time you need to return the vehicle, and what the consequences are if you’re late. Some car rental companies in Miami will charge you for an entire day if you’re late, while others are more lenient and if you call ahead they may let it go without charging you. You’ll also want to leave the same amount of gas in the car as there was when you received it (it should usually be full), and if you’re dropping it off at the airport, try to avoid filling up near the rental car companies where prices will be higher.

There are many benefits to renting a car in Miami, and you’ll find that you have much more free time on your hands- since you’re not continually waiting around for ride sharing services or taxis. When your schedule allows for more freedom, the whole family will enjoy the vacation much more, and you can take each day as it comes- without needing to schedule and plan every day so you can work out how you’re getting from point A to point B.