Rental Cars

[smfritz03]

I was reading the fine print on our rental agreement and it states a major credit card is required. We do not have any major cards--is a debit card ok? Or should we just suck it up and get a credit card? We have good credit-just dont want to fall into the "credit" trap or worry about it being stolen on vacation.

Thanks!

 

[imamicki2]

I am renting from Alamo in June. They accept Debit cards as long as you have a return flight ticket. Not sure why that matters. I guess then they know you are not going to stick around and not return their car?? You can always call. DO NOT GET A CREDIT CARD.........THEY ARE NO GOOD!

 

[dcgrumpy]

Alamo and Dollar accept Debit cards, but Dollar does a credit check beforehand.

 

[justcruisin]

They may put a temporary charge (about $1500) on your debit card. Happened to a friend of mine.

CONGRATS for the not having a credit card ... We're working towards that ... If we can't pay cash we're not buying it! (should have thought of that a few years ago!)

 

[golfgal]

I know National won't let you rent a car without a regular credit card, but you can PAY for your trip on a debit card. You need to use the credit card incase you steal the car, I guess. The nice thing about paying for rental cars on most major credit cards is they often have insurance coverage if you use the card to pay for the rental. Having a major credit card is a good idea. If you use it occassionally, maybe $100 here and there, it really helps boost your credit rating. Just make sure you pay it off every month!