Renting a vehicle equipped with a tow hitch can allow you to tow boats, RVs, trailers, and more to your destination. However, not all rental cars have a hitch installed. Finding the right rental car with towing capacity requires research and planning.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Call rental car companies ahead of time to find out their policies on towing and renting vehicles with hitches pre-installed. Consider renting a pickup truck or large SUV which is more likely to have a factory-installed hitch.
Expect to pay more for the vehicle rental and added insurance coverage.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about renting a car with a tow hitch. We will discuss types of hitches, rental car towing policies, how to find a rental with towing capacity, additional fees to expect, insurance considerations, tips for safe towing, and top vehicles for renting with a hitch.
Types of Trailer Hitches for Rental Cars
Receiver Hitches
Receiver hitches are the most common type of trailer hitch found on rental cars. They consist of a square or rectangular receiver tube that is mounted to the rear of the vehicle.
This type of hitch is versatile and can accommodate a wide range of tow accessories, such as bike racks and cargo carriers.
Receiver hitches come in different classes, with each class having a specific towing capacity. Class I hitches have the lowest towing capacity, while Class V hitches have the highest.
Fixed Ball Mount Hitches
Fixed ball mount hitches are another type of trailer hitch commonly available for rental cars.
Fixed ball mount hitches are often used for towing small to medium-sized trailers, such as utility trailers and campers.
Gooseneck and Fifth Wheel Hitches
Gooseneck and fifth wheel hitches are designed for towing heavy loads and are typically found on larger trucks. These hitches require special installation and are not commonly available for rental cars.
When renting a car with a tow hitch, it’s important to consider the type of trailer hitch required for your towing needs.
Receiver hitches and fixed ball mount hitches are the most common types found on rental cars, providing versatility for various towing accessories.
However, if you need to tow heavy loads or larger trailers, you may need to explore other options. Always check with the rental car company to ensure they have the appropriate trailer hitch available for your needs.
Rental Car Company Policies for Towing
When it comes to renting a car with a tow hitch, it’s important to be aware of the policies and restrictions set by rental car companies. Understanding these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free towing experience. Here are some key factors to consider:
Towing Restrictions
Each rental car company has its own set of towing restrictions that you should familiarize yourself with before renting a car. Some companies may prohibit towing altogether, while others may allow it under certain conditions.
It is essential to check with the rental car company in advance to ensure that your towing needs can be accommodated.
Some common restrictions may include limitations on the weight of the trailer, the type of trailer allowed (open or enclosed), and specific towing equipment requirements.
Additionally, certain locations or vehicle models may have stricter towing restrictions, so it’s important to double-check these details before making a reservation.
Additional Fees
It’s important to be aware that renting a car with a tow hitch may incur additional fees. Rental car companies often charge extra for the use of towing equipment and may also require a deposit or an increase in the overall rental price.
These fees vary from company to company, so it’s important to inquire about them upfront to avoid any surprises.
Additionally, some rental car companies may require you to purchase additional insurance coverage specifically for towing.
This insurance is designed to protect you and the rental car from any damages that may occur during the towing process.
While it may add to the overall cost, it is an important precaution to consider.
Insurance Requirements
Before renting a car with a tow hitch, it’s crucial to review your own insurance policy to determine whether it covers towing. In most cases, personal auto insurance policies do not extend coverage to rental vehicles.
Therefore, it is recommended to purchase the additional insurance offered by the rental car company.
It’s also worth noting that the rental car company’s insurance may have certain limitations or exclusions, so it’s essential to review the policy details carefully.
If you have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the rental car company or consult with your own insurance provider for clarification.
Remember, understanding the rental car company’s policies for towing, additional fees, and insurance requirements will help you make an informed decision and have a stress-free towing experience.
Always read the terms and conditions carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Finding a Rental Car with Towing Capacity
When it comes to renting a car with a tow hitch, there are a few important factors to consider. Whether you need to transport a trailer, RV, or other heavy load, finding a rental car with the appropriate towing capacity is crucial.
Here are some tips to help you find the right rental car for your towing needs.
Call Ahead to Rental Companies
Before making a reservation, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to rental companies and inquire about their towing options. Not all rental cars come equipped with tow hitches, so it’s important to check if this is available.
Some companies may have specific vehicles dedicated to towing, while others may offer hitches as optional extras.
By calling ahead, you can ensure that the rental company has the right vehicle for your towing needs.
Consider Renting a Truck or Large SUV
If you have a significant towing requirement, it may be worth considering renting a truck or a large SUV. These vehicles often have higher towing capacities compared to regular cars.
Trucks are especially suitable for towing heavy loads, such as boats or construction equipment.
Renting a truck or large SUV will provide you with the necessary power and stability to tow your items safely and efficiently.
Verify Towing Specs Before Booking
Once you have narrowed down your options to a few rental companies, it’s important to verify the towing specifications of the vehicles they offer.
Pay attention to important details such as maximum towing weight, tongue weight, and trailer brake requirements.
This information will help you determine if the vehicle is suitable for your specific towing needs. Additionally, make sure to inform the rental company about the type of load you plan to tow, as they may have additional recommendations or restrictions.
Ask About Hitch Installation Options
If you already have a tow hitch and only need a rental car with the appropriate towing capacity, ask the rental company if they offer hitch installation services. Some companies may have the option to install a tow hitch on their vehicles upon request.
This can save you time and effort, as you won’t have to worry about installing the hitch yourself. However, it’s important to inquire about any additional fees or requirements associated with hitch installation.
Remember, when it comes to renting a car with a tow hitch, it’s essential to plan ahead and communicate your towing needs with the rental company.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to find a rental car that meets your towing requirements and ensures a smooth and safe journey.
Additional Costs to Expect
When renting a car with a tow hitch, there are a few additional costs that you should be aware of. These costs can vary depending on the rental company and the specific terms of your rental agreement.
Here are some common additional costs to expect:
Increased Rental Rates
One of the first things you’ll notice when renting a car with a tow hitch is that the rental rates are often higher compared to renting a standard car.
This is because cars with tow hitches are typically larger and more powerful, making them more expensive to purchase and maintain.
The increased rental rates reflect these additional costs.
Added Insurance Fees
Another cost to consider when renting a car with a tow hitch is the added insurance fees. Most rental companies require you to have additional insurance coverage when towing a trailer or other heavy loads.
This is to protect both you and the rental company in case of any accidents or damage that may occur while towing. The insurance fees can vary depending on the level of coverage you choose.
Extra Charges for Hitch Installation
If the rental car you choose doesn’t already have a tow hitch installed, you may have to pay extra for the installation.
This can vary depending on the rental company and the specific type of hitch required. It’s important to inquire about this cost upfront so that you can budget accordingly.
Taxes and Surcharges
In addition to the base rental rate and insurance fees, don’t forget to factor in taxes and surcharges. These additional charges can vary depending on the location of the rental, the duration of the rental, and any specific regulations in place.
It’s always a good idea to ask the rental company about these charges upfront so that you’re not caught off guard.
Remember, while renting a car with a tow hitch may come with additional costs, it can also provide you with the convenience and flexibility to transport heavy loads or tow trailers during your trip.
Make sure to carefully review the rental agreement and ask any questions you may have before finalizing your rental.
Insurance Considerations When Towing
When renting a car with a tow hitch, it’s important to consider the insurance options available to protect yourself and the vehicle.
Towing can sometimes be risky, so having the right coverage in place can give you peace of mind during your rental period.
Damage Coverage
One of the first insurance considerations when towing is damage coverage. This type of insurance protects you from any damage that may occur to the rental car or the towed vehicle while in your possession.
It’s a good idea to check with the rental agency to see what their policy covers and if there are any additional options you can purchase for extra protection.
In the event of an accident or damage, having adequate damage coverage can help minimize your out-of-pocket expenses.
Remember to thoroughly inspect both the rental car and the towed vehicle before embarking on your journey to ensure any pre-existing damage is documented.
Liability Protection
Liability protection is another important consideration when towing a rental car. This type of insurance covers any damages or injuries you may cause to other people or their property while using the rental car and tow hitch.
It’s crucial to have sufficient liability protection to avoid potential legal and financial consequences. Before renting a car with a tow hitch, make sure to check the liability coverage limits provided by the rental agency.
If the limits seem low, you may want to consider purchasing additional liability protection through your personal insurance or the rental agency itself.
Rental Agency Insurance Options
Most rental agencies offer insurance options specifically tailored to towing. These options can vary in terms of coverage and cost, so it’s important to review them carefully and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Some rental agencies may offer comprehensive insurance packages that include both damage coverage and liability protection for towing.
Others may provide separate options for each type of coverage. Take the time to compare the different insurance packages and consider the value they provide in relation to the cost.
Note: It’s always a good idea to consult your personal insurance provider to see if your existing policy covers towing with a rental car. This can help you avoid paying for duplicate coverage and may provide additional peace of mind during your rental period.
Remember, accidents can happen when towing, so having the right insurance coverage is essential. Take the time to understand the insurance considerations when renting a car with a tow hitch and make an informed decision to protect yourself and your belongings.
Conclusion
Renting a car equipped with a tow hitch opens up many possibilities for transporting boats, trailers, RVs, and equipment to your destination.
While most standard rental cars cannot tow, many truck, SUV, and van rentals include towing capacity and pre-installed hitches.
The key is researching rental policies, calling ahead to verify towing specs, and reserving well in advance. Expect to pay more in rental fees, insurance, and taxes. And always tow responsibly within safety limits.
With proper preparation, renting a tow ready vehicle can simplify transporting your gear on road trips or vacations.