insurance for car rental reddit
insurance for car rental reddit, When renting a car, one of the biggest questions people face is: do I need insurance? For many, Reddit has become the go-to platform to share experiences, ask questions, and get advice from real users. In this guide, we’ll explore what Reddit users say about car rental insurance, common pitfalls, and tips to save money while staying protected.
Do You Really Need Car Rental Insurance?
Reddit threads often reveal that the answer depends on your existing coverage:
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Your personal car insurance: Many policies cover rentals, including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.
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Credit card coverage: Some credit cards provide rental car insurance if you pay for the rental with the card.
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Rental company insurance: These are optional, but can include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), liability insurance, and personal accident insurance.
Pro tip from Reddit: Check your insurance documents carefully. Users often report surprises when they assumed coverage existed, only to find out that certain damages or locations weren’t included.
Types of Car Rental Insurance
Reddit discussions highlight three main types:
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Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) / Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): Covers damage to the rental car.
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Liability Insurance: Covers damages to others’ property or injuries in an accident.
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Personal Accident / Personal Effects Coverage: Covers medical expenses for passengers or theft of personal belongings.
Most Reddit users recommend verifying your personal policy and credit card coverage before buying additional insurance from the rental company—it can save you hundreds.
Reddit Tips to Save on Car Rental Insurance
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Use a credit card with rental coverage: Many Reddit users swear by cards like Chase Sapphire or American Express for automatic CDW coverage.
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Check your car insurance: Some users find they’re already fully covered for rentals in the U.S. and abroad.
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Decline unnecessary extras at the counter: CDW, roadside assistance, or airport surcharges can add up quickly.
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Compare rates online: Insurance aggregators or rental platforms sometimes offer cheaper coverage than the rental desk.
Common Reddit Experiences
Reddit is full of firsthand experiences. Some popular themes:
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Unexpected coverage gaps: Users renting abroad often face situations their personal insurance doesn’t cover.
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Saving money: Many report declining rental insurance after confirming coverage via credit card.
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Rental company pressure: Several threads warn about aggressive upselling at the counter.
FAQs: Insurance for Car Rentals
Q1: Can I rely solely on my credit card for rental insurance?
A: Often, yes, but check exclusions like luxury cars, long-term rentals, or rentals in certain countries.
Q2: Does rental insurance cover theft?
A: CDW/LDW usually covers theft, but personal belongings may need separate coverage.
Q3: Is liability insurance necessary if I have personal auto insurance?
A: If your personal policy covers rental cars, extra liability is usually optional, but check your limits.
Q4: Should I buy insurance from the rental company at the airport?
A: Only if your personal or credit card coverage is insufficient. Reddit users frequently advise pre-checking coverage to avoid extra costs.
Final Thoughts
Reddit is a valuable resource for real-world advice on rental car insurance, but always cross-check with your personal insurance and credit card policies. By understanding your coverage, you can avoid unnecessary expenses while staying protected during your trip.