The Ultimate Guide to Car Hire for Route 66 Road Trips: Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Journey
Planning a Route 66 road trip is an exciting adventure. However, to make the most out of this trip, you need a reliable car to drive you through the 2,400-mile-long route. Car hire is an excellent option, but with so many companies and vehicles to choose from, how do you ensure that you’re getting the best deal?
In this guide, we’ll go through everything you need to know about car hire for Route 66 road trips. From choosing the right car to understanding the regulations and insurance requirements, these tips and tricks will help you plan a smooth journey.
Choosing the Right Car for Your Route 66 Road Trip
The first step in your Route 66 car hire journey is to choose the right car. While you may be tempted to go for a flashy sports car or an SUV, it’s essential to consider more practical options. Some of the factors that you should consider when choosing a car include:
1. Fuel efficiency: With a long stretch of road ahead, it’s important to choose a car that won’t break the bank in fuel costs. Compact cars and hybrids are excellent options for this purpose.
2. Comfort: Since you’ll be spending a significant amount of time behind the wheel, choose a car that has comfortable seats, ample legroom, and good ventilation. A comfortable car will reduce the risk of back or neck strains and make the journey more enjoyable.
3. Storage space: Packing is a crucial aspect of your road trip. Choose a car that has enough storage space for your luggage and other travel essentials.
Understanding the Regulations and Insurance Requirements
Before hitting the road, you need to ensure that you’re compliant with the regulations and insurance requirements of the state(s) you’ll be driving through. Here are some of the essential regulations and insurance requirements to note:
1. Driver’s License: You need a valid driver’s license to rent and operate a car in the United States. An international driver’s license is recommended, but not mandatory.
2. Age restrictions: Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may also have higher age requirements.
3. Insurance: Car hire companies typically offer collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection (TP). However, these may not cover all damages, and you may need to purchase additional insurance coverage.
Booking Your Car Hire
Booking your car rental early is essential, especially during peak travel seasons. Here are some tips to help you get the best deal:
1. Shop around: Compare prices from different car rental companies and book the one that offers the best value for your money.
2. Book in advance: Early booking can save you money as rental rates tend to increase as the travel date approaches.
3. Check for discounts: Some car rental companies offer discounts for members of certain organizations or for booking online.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Here are some additional tips to help you have a hassle-free trip:
1. Plan your route and stops in advance: Research the attractions and rest stops along the way and plan your trip accordingly.
2. Pack a GPS and a map: A reliable navigation system and a physical map can help you navigate difficult terrains and prevent you from getting lost.
3. Keep an emergency kit in your car: Your emergency kit should include a first aid kit, a spare tire, jumper cables, and a flashlight.
Conclusion
A Route 66 road trip is one of the most exciting adventures you can take, and car hire makes it easier to get the most out of your trip. By considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can choose the right car, understand the regulations and insurance requirements, book your car rental early, and enjoy a smooth journey. Have a safe and memorable trip!
