Buzz
Even if you don’t rent cars often, you’re probably aware of the common requirements: a valid driver’s license, being at least 25 years old, and using a credit card. However, the credit card requirement is changing in some areas.
Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty now accept debit cards for rental payments in Europe, as reported by The Points Guy. This change was made due to the higher usage of debit cards over credit cards in Europe, according to a press release from Hertz claims.
While it may bring convenience to many travelers, it also comes with a cost. If you’re paying with a credit card, these three rental companies will require a pre-authorized deposit to cover estimated charges, including a full tank of fuel. The deposit will be refunded once the car is returned and the final charges are calculated, though it may take up to 30 days for the deposit to be credited back to the customer’s account. “Acceptable debit/check cards must have sufficient available funds to cover the estimated rental charges plus the pre-authorized credit or deposit by Hertz, Dollar, or Thrifty,” the press release explains.
Yes, you read that right. You’ll need double the estimated rental cost available in your bank account before heading to the rental counter.
Use a credit card to reduce the cost of rental car insurance
Alternatively, when you book a car with your credit card, the hold will be released once you return the vehicle, without affecting the actual money in your account. This is one of the two main reasons why you should always reserve a rental car with a credit card, even if debit cards are an option.
As previously mentioned, many credit cards provide excellent travel insurance benefits. Some cards offer secondary insurance for car rentals, which covers costs not fully paid by your personal car insurance. Others provide primary insurance, allowing you to skip the rental counter’s extra charge and rely on your credit card’s coverage instead.
The coverage can differ depending on the card—it’s common for credit cards to only cover collision damage, not liability—and many rental agencies will request proof of your card’s coverage when you pick up the car. However, if you use a debit card, you won’t have the option to access this coverage for free.
Stay connected with Mytour by following us on Instagram @Mytourdotcom.
