Introduction
When planning a Hawaiian getaway, one of the first questions that comes to mind is whether to rent a car or not. While the convenience of having your own ride is undeniable, the cost of car rentals in Hawaii can be surprisingly high, especially during peak tourist seasons. But don’t let the price tag scare you! With a little planning, you can rent a car in Hawaii without draining your vacation budget.
In this guide, we will show you how to find affordable rental cars, avoid hidden fees and navigate the best time to visit The Aloha State. Whether you are on your way to explore Oahu, Lanai or the Big Island, these tips will help you enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank!
Why rent a car in Hawaii?
A car rental in Hawaii is the best option if you want to fully explore the islands along with utmost flexibility and privacy. Although several areas such as Waikiki on Oahu, are easily walkable, a vehicle will help you to discover hidden gems and make the most out of your trip. Here are some benefits that renting a vehicle brings.
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Freedom to explore
Hawaii includes 8 major islands and more than 100 smaller islets. Some of the unique attractions such as rugged cliffs of Na Pali Coast and volcanic wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, are only accessible by car.
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Convenience
To wander around at your own pace and experience the true beauty of Hawaii, a rental car helps a lot. If you wish to catch sunrise at Haleakalā National Park in Maui or head to a hidden beach on the North Shore of Oahu, you just have to start your vehicle without having to wait for taxi or public transport.
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Affordable trips
While tours are an option, they can add up quickly. To avoid tour costs, you can search for famous tourist places beforehand and go there at your leisure. This will help you save money and still behold the beauty of Hawaii’s islands.
How much is a rental car in Hawaii?
The Hawaii car rental price depends on various factors such as rental duration, car category, supplier, etc. Here is a list of rental prices of different categories -
- Economy - $35 - $45/per day
- Compact - $35 - $55/per day
- Standard/Full Size - $38 - $60/per day
- SUV - $43 - $80/per day
- Van/Minivan - $77 - $169/per day
- Luxury/Premium - $73 - $165/per day
- Convertible - $75 - $130/ per day
Note: Prices may vary depending on the season, rental duration and other reasons.
Understand why and when it is expensive?
Sometimes, prices of car rentals in Hawaii can surpass your expectations. Hence, it is important to understand why and when it happens.
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High demand and seasonal spikes
Hawaii is a popular destination all year round, but the demand for rentals increases during certain months, making their prices spike. Months of the season are -
- Winter Holidays - December to January
- Spring Holidays - March to April
- Summer Holidays - June to August
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Hidden and additional costs
When the base price might look good at first, there are often extra costs that add up to it. These Hawaii car rental hidden costs include:
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Airport surcharges - Renting a car from the airport usually comes with an additional fee that can inflate the total price.
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Fuel charges - Some rental agencies require you to return the car with a full tank of gas, while others may offer a pre-paid fuel option. Be sure to check the fuel policy to avoid paying extra.
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Extras - Getting GPS, child seat, etc. from the supplier at the time of picking up your vehicle can cost you extra.
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Additional driver fee - if you are planning to share driving duties, there is often an additional fee for adding another driver.
These extra charges can increase your final rental price by 20–40%, depending on the company. By being aware of these charges, you can avoid surprises at the rental counter.
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Tips to get cheap Hawaii car rental
Below is a list of strategies that you can apply to get the cheapest Hawaii car rental and make your trip within budget.
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Book in advance - Deals are comparatively cheaper when reserved earlier as compared to the reservations closer to your pick-up date. Hence, make sure that you book at least 2-3 weeks before your trip.
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Compare Hawaii car rental prices - To get the best car rental in Hawaii, compare prices and inclusions thoroughly before you reserve the deal. This is because many suppliers offer various inclusions such as airport concession fee recovery, collision damage waiver, etc. Hence, the more the inclusions, the better the deal.
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Read “Rental Terms” thoroughly - Everything is mentioned in the Rental Terms. Ensure that you read those thoroughly before booking a rental. Things to look out for in the rental terms -
- Out of hours charges
- Fuel policy
- Mileage options
- Rental cover
- Service fee
- Young/senior driver surcharge
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Cheapest place to rent a car in Hawaii - Honolulu (HNL Airport) usually offers the cheapest car rental prices because it has the highest number of rental companies.
Conclusion
Renting a car in The Aloha State does not have to drain your wallet. By booking in advance, comparing prices and staying mindful of hidden fees, you can get an affordable car rental in Hawaii. This will help you plan your trip within your budget and explore the islands fully.
Remember to choose the right time to visit, avoid unnecessary extras and thoroughly read your rental agreement. With these tips, you will be able to enjoy all those things that Hawaii has to offer, whether it is snorkeling in Maui or driving around the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes and that too without breaking the bank!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is it necessary to rent a car in Hawaii?
Renting a car is highly recommended if you want flexibility and easy access to beaches, scenic lookouts, hiking spots and remote areas that are served by public transit, especially some areas on Maui, Kauai, Lanai and the Big Island.
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What are the cheapest months for Hawaii car rentals?
The cheapest months to rent a car in Hawaii are typically February, May, September and early October.
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Can I rent a car in Hawaii without a credit card?
Many companies hold a refundable security deposit during pick-up. And as the deposit is held on the credit card of the main driver, a car rental in Hawaii without a credit card is highly unlikely.
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Can I cancel my Hawaii car rental for free?
Yes, you can cancel your Hawaii car rental for free if you do so within the stipulated time. Refer to the ‘Rental Terms’ carefully to read information regarding this.
