Your Guide to Unlimited Mileage Car Rentals

When you book a rental car, miles can make a big difference in cost. Unlimited mileage car rentals let you skip over mileage tracking and hit the road freely, but they aren’t always the most cost-effective option. Understand how unlimited mileage works, when it’s useful and how to compare options to save on future rentals and trips with Citi Travel^®.

What is unlimited mileage in car rentals?

Learning how to rent a car can require a basic understanding of mileage policies. Renting a vehicle with unlimited mileage means you have no mileage restrictions – you can drive as much or as little as needed before drop-off. Unlimited mileage isn’t always necessary, but it can be more affordable in these situations:

• You’re driving through a larger state or cross-country
• You know you’ll use the car extensively while your main vehicle is in the shop
• You’re moving and making multiple trips to and from your new place

Many rental agencies provide unlimited-mileage cars, but some locations may impose a mileage cap and charge a fee for every additional mile you drive, especially for these types of vehicles:

• Higher-end car groups or exotic vehicles
• Larger passenger or cargo vans
• Bigger sport utility vehicles (SUVs)
• Cars reserved during promotional periods or on weekends

Unlimited mileage vs. limited mileage fees

Rental car companies may assess mileage fees based on an unlimited flat-fee model or a cents-per-mile model that involves flat or dynamic fees when exceeding your limit. Your reservation or rental agreement specifies what type of mileage policy you have. The company will most likely check your vehicle’s odometer to verify miles and charge you accordingly. Some companies may enforce limited mileage policies by:

• Charging a fee per mile over the limit
• Charging region- or location-specific overage fees
• Charging by rental length
• Charging differently by vehicle type

How unlimited mileage works

Car companies typically define unlimited mileage as a specific fixed price, so whether it’s 2 miles or 2,000, you don’t pay more for any set number of miles. Limitless miles aren’t a guarantee in all rate plans, so pay close attention to the terms and conditions of your rental agreement before signing. Even unlimited mileage plans may have caps. These caps tend to be very high, but if you’re driving cross-country, you might hit them.

Unlimited mileage policies are becoming increasingly common at American car rental agencies, and you may often see the option when browsing for deals.

When to choose or skip car rentals with unlimited mileage

These tips for estimating your miles can help you decide if a limited or unlimited mileage policy best fits your needs:

• Run your trip through a maps or navigation app to calculate how many miles you’ll travel
• Factor in an extra 5–10 miles for detours, getting lost or other delays
• If you’re road-tripping, map out where you may be staying overnight and how many miles it takes to arrive there, not just the miles between your origin and the destination

After estimating your miles, you may want to opt for a smaller car if the larger option has a more expensive limited-mileage policy. You can also check if the rental company charges more affordable rates for either policy type at a different location. Alternatively, ask the agent at the counter if they offer a better model or an upgrade with no change to the mileage terms.

Advantages of no mileage limit

There are a number of benefits to choosing an unlimited mileage car rental, including:

• Cost-effective prices. Unlimited mileage policies often charge a flat rate, which can be more affordable than paying per-mile and limited-mileage fees.
• Easier long hauls and more flexible itineraries. Car rentals with unlimited mileage provide convenience, simplicity and peace of mind for quick rental periods, short distances and even cross-country travel. You can also avoid having to track your mileage when renting a car for long-distance road trips or making multiple stops.
• More seamless moves. Relocating renters and homeowners alike may find stopping in several cities or driving across state lines easier with unlimited mileage plans.

Limitations and exceptions

Before selecting an unlimited mileage car rental, consider:

• Shorter trips may not mean savings. If you’re just driving a few miles or only need the car for a short period, a limited mileage plan may have lower rates.
• Unlimited may still come with a high mileage limit. Always read the terms and conditions of your rental agreement closely. Unlimited mileage policies can come with hidden fees or high caps that you could hit if you’re making an extended trip.
• Border and regional restrictions may come into play. Rental companies may restrict travel or change mileage plans when you cross state borders or enter neighboring countries.
• Extra coverage may be required. You may need to buy additional insurance for unlimited mileage policies.

Use Citi Travel to find deals on car rentals with no mileage limit

If you have an eligible Citi^® card, you can use Citi Travel to compare deals on car rentals with unlimited mileage, spot rental deals and book, all while earning rewards for future trips.

Here’s how to make the most of Citi Travel:

• Use Citi Travel filters to narrow down cars based on your needs
• Eligible Citi cards let you earn extra ThankYou^® Points on car rentals booked through Citi Travel, so you can turn today's trip into future travel perks
• Book your rental ahead of time to help secure better rates and mileage policies on the vehicle you want, especially on weekends or during peak seasons

You can also log into the Citi Mobile^® App or go online to access full booking tools with 24/7 customer support and thousands of car rental options.

Use the right tools for your travel plans

Unlimited mileage policies may be your best bet if you’re covering hundreds or even thousands of miles in a rental car. However, local and short-term trips may be more economical with limited mileage plans. Either way, it’s a smart choice to estimate your miles beforehand and compare policies for potential mileage restrictions and hidden fees.

Booking through Citi Travel may help you find the right fit faster while earning points toward your next trip. In the meantime, get more information on renting vehicles with our ultimate car rental guide.

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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