Hello!

Me and a fellow student are planning on going to the US for three weeks next summmer and I have some questions.

I am currently a Hertz Club #1 Gold Member since they had a campaign where you could sign up for free and I have got a PC code since I�m a student in Sweden.

I am 21 years old, being 22 at the time of rental, and a student.
Therefore I don�t have all the money in the world but I have checked out the Cadillac STS or the Merc GL450 and they seem nice.

Does anyone have any tips on what car to get for a three week road trip?

What extras like insurances etc. should I have?

Any other tips you guys have for a first time car renter and U.S traveller?

Thanks very much in advance!

 

The Gold Family CDP, listed elsewhere on these forums, will waive the Hertz underage fee. I don't think underage renters are allowed to rent a Mercedes, because it's in the Prestige Collection.

 

Make sure you purchase LDW (Loss Damage Waiver - covers damage to the hire car with zero excess/deductible) and LIS (Liability Insurance Supplement - covers theft, uninsured motorist protection, damage to other cars/property, injury to other persons and legal liability), or your rate includes them.

In my experience, Hertz offers packaged rates to non US residents which include all insurances and fees/charges, often at less cost than they offer US residents without insurance - make sure you either use the Hertz swedish website, or select Sweden as you country of residence on any Hertz website.

I recommend the following cars in order of preference, if you like driving (i.e. cars that handle well and look good):

Camaro
Mustang
Challenger
Mercedes C Class
Cadillac CTS
Infiniti G37

Not sure whether you'd be able to rent the above cars as you're under 25 though.

The first 3 would be about 50% more expensive than an STS or GL450, with second 3 about about the same cost as an STS.

I wouldn't bother with a GL450 if you like driving.

 

Thanks for the answers!
What happens if I book a Prestige but am under 25? I think it is possible through internet-booking. Do I get the level below for prestige-money?

 

If you try to book a Prestige car and select 20 to 24 as the age, it will tell you that no cars are available, if you put in 25+ like magic cars will be there.

The minimum for Prestige rental is 25.