Renting a car using a portal like the Citi Travel® site can be a great option to get around when you’re traveling if you have an eligible Citi credit card. A rental car can afford you convenience, flexibility, privacy, and comfort, allowing you to go where you want, when you want. There are a couple of special considerations to keep in mind when renting a car in the winter. Let’s review some of them so that you can know what to expect and be prepared for any weather-related scenario.
Know what the weather will look like
When renting a car in the winter, know what the weather will look like and plan ahead for any contingencies. Use a weather app or check the news for any approaching snow, sleet, or conditions that might make driving more difficult, such as icy roads or low visibility. Keep in mind that challenging weather conditions can sneak up on you, and have a backup plan of what you’ll do if driving is no longer an option.
Pick the right car
Picking the right car when renting a car in winter is essential to making sure your trip runs smoothly. Some cars are better equipped to navigate inclement weather than others. For example, a convertible might not be the best option in the winter, but an SUV with high ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and large tires is a great way to go. Ask your rental agency for help finding a car with four-wheel or all-wheel drive and anti-locking breaks. Avoid cars that are lower to the ground and cars that have rear-wheel drive whenever possible, as they’re more likely to skid.
Safety first
Safety is paramount when renting a car in the winter. Before leaving the rental car agency, double-check that your rental car’s tire pressure is where it should be. Always make sure you’re driving with enough gas, that you and your passengers are wearing your seatbelts, and that you’re staying with—or even under—the speed limit, especially when driving in snow or ice. Make sure that you can see out of all your mirrors, and be sure to engage any additional safety features—like airbags and rear-and-side mirror cameras—whenever possible.
Understand your rental terms and ask questions, if needed
Double-check that you understand the terms of your rental before driving off the lot. Come prepared with a current license and credit card, and make sure you’re clear on your rental agency’s policies and procedures, including their terms around additional drivers, age requirements, after-hour returns, late or overtime fees, and any cost responsibility or liability for damages. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—the more you know upfront, the fewer surprises you’ll have to deal with at the time you return your car.
Be prepared
Finally, when renting a car in the winter, preparation is key. Obtain the right insurance from your car rental agency beforehand—you might even consider opting for collision insurance to cover any incidentals. Plan for potential weather delays and build extra time into your drive so that you don’t have to speed or rush. Drive with safety equipment in the car, such as an ice scraper, a portable phone charger that doesn’t require a car battery, bottles of water and snacks, warm clothes and blankets in case you get stuck, and a shovel in the unlikely event that you have to dig yourself out. Save your rental company’s roadside assistance number in your phone before you set out, and contact them immediately if you run into any issues or delays in returning the car on time.
Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.
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