I get where you’re coming from, but I’m still a little skeptical about all those extra insurance add-ons. I’ve rented cars all over—Montana included—and yeah, the “loss of use” thing is a pain, but it feels like the rental companies are just looking for ways to pad the bill. My regular insurance and credit card usually cover most of the basics, including some of those fees, though I’ll admit I’ve never actually had to file a claim for “loss of use.” Maybe I’ve just been lucky.
Honestly, I’d rather take my chances and save the cash unless it’s a really sketchy situation or I’m driving somewhere way off the beaten path. Those extra policies can add up fast, and half the time the fine print is so confusing you don’t even know what you’re really covered for. Maybe if I was renting something rare or classic (which would be awesome, but probably not happening in Montana), I’d think twice. For your average rental? Still feels like overkill to me... but maybe that’s just my stubborn side talking.
Maybe if I was renting something rare or classic (which would be awesome, but probably not happening in Montana), I’d think twice.
I get the hesitation, but I've actually seen a few cases where someone thought their credit card would cover “loss of use” and it didn’t—mainly because the rental company charged fees that weren’t recognized by the insurer. It’s true, the fine print is a headache, but sometimes those add-ons do save you from a nasty surprise. Worth double-checking your policy before rolling the dice, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or can’t afford downtime.
Yeah, I’ve run into that “loss of use” loophole too—credit card coverage isn’t always as solid as it sounds. One thing I’d add: sometimes your personal auto policy covers rentals, but only up to your regular limits. If you drive an old beater at home, that might not cut it for a new SUV rental. Worth checking before you get to the counter and have to make a snap decision.
That “loss of use” bit is the sneakiest fine print out there—like, who knew you could be on the hook for a car you’re not even driving? And yeah, your point about personal auto policies is spot on. I’ve seen folks roll up to the rental counter thinking their trusty 2003 Corolla coverage will magically stretch to a brand-new Tahoe. Spoiler: it usually doesn’t.
Honestly, insurance is one of those things where you don’t want to find out the hard way that your coverage isn’t enough. I always tell people, if you’re renting something way nicer than what you drive at home, double-check those limits before you get dazzled by the rental agent’s upsell speech. Sometimes paying a little extra for peace of mind is worth it—unless you like living dangerously (in which case, hey, more power to you).
But yeah, it’s wild how many folks assume their credit card or regular policy has them covered for everything. Fine print is a cruel mistress...
Fine print is a cruel mistress...
- Can confirm, learned that the hard way when my “coverage” didn’t cover the rental company’s downtime.
- Also, if your credit card says it covers rentals, check if it includes “loss of use”—a lot don’t.
- Personal policies usually only match your regular car, not that shiny SUV you’re eyeing.
- I’d rather pay a few bucks extra than gamble with Montana’s wildlife and end up paying for a Tahoe I never got to drive again...