If you plan on taking a vacation in beautiful Hawaii, you need to be aware of transportation options. Public transport is just about non-existent, except on Oahu, where The Bus supplies very good transport. If you stay at Waikiki Beach and mostly visit downtown Honolulu, you will not need your own transport. For all other areas it is strongly recommended that you use car rental in order to make the most of your visit. And if you heed the following tips, renting a car in Hawaii will be an uncomplicated experience.
The most important thing is that you book your vehicle well in advance, at least three months before you arrive. Do so online through a company that compare prices of many rental companies; make use of any discount coupons available. Most bookings do not require a credit card number, so you are free to change your booking at any time before your arrival. It is recommended that you regularly check rental deals, as these change constantly and chances are that you will get a better deal if you are attentive. It is more economical to make use of the smallest vehicle that can accommodate all passengers and their luggage; an SUV is not necessary as you are generally not allowed to drive off road and some rough roads are actually prohibited if you use a rental vehicle. You could even be given a free upgrade to a larger vehicle if your booked one is not available, so make sure to inquire about that possibility.
Be aware of surcharges such as insurance, which you might not need as your own insurance or credit card might cover that. Some companies charge extra for a second driver and drivers under 25 are expected to pay significantly more. Avoid making use of smaller cheaper rental companies, as their vehicles are usually older and less reliable. Some vacation package deals include cheaper car rental. Make sure you really need any extras such as child car seats, luggage racks or satellite navigation, so bring your own GPS from home.
Renting from a company situated at the airport is more expensive than one off site, so it is worth your while making use of a shuttle service taking you to an agency further away. If your flight arrives after five in the afternoon, the rental desks will be closed and you need to use the airport or hotel shuttle service to reach your accommodation.
When picking up your vehicle, check it carefully for existing damage and that this has been recorded by the rental company. Any unrecorded damage will have to be paid by you upon return of the vehicle. Drop-off charges apply only if you return the rental vehicle at a different island or airport to the one where you picked it up. Make use of the free Hawaii Drive Guides for maps and information.
When returning the vehicle, do so in time and on the specified date to avoid late or early return surcharges. Fill up the tank just before delivery, as rental companies charge a hefty fee for refuelling. Making use of the above tips when availing yourself of car rental will make your Hawaiian vacation a dream come true.