Renting a minivan?

[DizneyLizzy]

So we are embarking on a two week family road trip this summer. Traveling from Maryland to NC, then to WDW, then to SC for a few days, and then home to MD. We have 2 adults, 2 small children, and a small SUV.

I was considering renting a minivan - to cut down on wear and tear on our car, but also for some extra space. Does anyone else do this? Any tips on getting a good rate on a minivan?

Just from some preliminary research, I could rent a minivan today, through Costco, for $650 total for 2 weeks. I've never rented a minivan before, so I don't really have anything to price compare.

What kind of minivan rates do people generally look for?

Does anyone else do this sort of thing? Rent a car to save on wear and tear of your own, or to have more space?

Thanks!

 

[pattyw]

Sure do! Good idea- especially when we take a beach trip! Not going to take my car and have it full of sand!!

We rent minivans in Orlando as well. Sometimes they are available on the National Emerald Aisle but can't count on it. We don't get great prices on a minivan- $300 a week is the norm so $650 doesn't sound bad. We don't have Costco by us so don't use their codes. I use Entertainment book coupons for National and DH has a discount code from work.

 

[DizneyLizzy]

I actually just found a rate of $550 using Autoslash. So less than $300 a week sounds like a great price. Probably helps that we don't need to use an airport for the rental. Thanks!

 

[rwdavis2]

Does not sound bad for 2 weeks renting in Maryland. I live here and occasionally look to rent something bigger but they are usually too expensive. Costco seems to be the best bet. I rented a convertible at SFO for October and this past weekend I was able to cancel/re-book for $40 less. So keep looking once you reserve it.

 

[CarolynFH]

Renting a vehicle sounds like a good idea for the reasons you've mentioned. However, I would suggest you go to a dealership and compare the size of the luggage compartment in a minivan with that in your SUV. You might need an SUV to fit all the gear you'll need for your 2-week trip.

 

[nacho113]

I actually just found a rate of $550 using Autoslash. So less than $300 a week sounds like a great price. Probably helps that we don't need to use an airport for the rental. Thanks!

Typically airport rentals will have unlimited mileage, whereas local location rentals have a daily mileage limit.
Be sure to check this closely as it may actually be more cost effective renting from an airport location.
ie: If the local rental location has a 100-200 mile per day mileage clause, you could end up with a hefty mileage overage charge on a long distance rental such as the one you are looking at.

 

[DizneyLizzy]

Typically airport rentals will have unlimited mileage, whereas local location rentals have a daily mileage limit.
Be sure to check this closely as it may actually be more cost effective renting from an airport location.
ie: If the local rental location has a 100-200 mile per day mileage clause, you could end up with a hefty mileage overage charge on a long distance rental such as the one you are looking at.

So on my itinerary it says “unlimited mileage” but what do you think this means?

 

[TheRoyalPaynes]

So on my itinerary it says “unlimited mileage” but what do you think this means?

If your itinerary says "Unlimited Mileage" you're fine. Sometimes locations offer limited mileage, but it's the exception and not the rule these days. And your itinerary would have something like "including 300 miles, each additional mile 39¢."

 

[Smittolis]

The last time I was at Disney World, it was cheaper to rent a 14 seater mini-bus than it was a minivan! Much more difficult to park mind you ;o)

 

[ilikecarrentals]

So on my itinerary it says “unlimited mileage” but what do you think this means?

Priceline aren't great at showing mileage limitations. I would double check either on the hertz website or directly with the location.

 

[DizneyLizzy]

Priceline aren't great at showing mileage limitations. I would double check either on the hertz website or directly with the location.

Thanks! I put the Hertz confirmation number in on the Hertz website and it still says unlimited miles there. I will also call the location just to be sure. Obviously this rental is contingent upon needing unlimited miles!

 

[nacho113]

Thanks! I put the Hertz confirmation number in on the Hertz website and it still says unlimited miles there. I will also call the location just to be sure. Obviously this rental is contingent upon needing unlimited miles!

If it says unlimited on the Hertz website, you should be fine