Had a client once who thought their credit card coverage would handle everything—until they hit a patch of gravel outside Bozeman and slid into a fence. The rental company charged for the repairs, plus “loss of use” while the car was in the shop. The credit card only covered part of it, and sorting it out took weeks. I get why people skip the extra insurance, but out here, stuff happens fast and far from help. Sometimes that extra peace of mind is worth it, even if it feels like overkill.
I hear you on the “stuff happens fast” part. I used to think the extra insurance was just a money grab, but after a trip through Montana last winter, I’m not so sure anymore. I slid on some black ice near Livingston—didn’t hit anything, but it was close enough that my heart was pounding for hours. The roads out there can change in a second, and cell service isn’t always a given.
I’ve always relied on my credit card coverage too, but reading the fine print later, there’s a lot of stuff they don’t cover, like “loss of use” or certain types of damage. It’s kind of wild how many loopholes there are. I get wanting to save a few bucks, but after that trip, I’m leaning more toward just paying for the extra coverage, especially in places where help isn’t right around the corner. Maybe it’s overkill, but I’d rather not deal with weeks of paperwork if something goes sideways.
Yeah, I’ve been there—Montana roads can get sketchy real quick, especially in winter. I used to just trust my credit card coverage too, but after a fender bender in Idaho (not even my fault), I found out “loss of use” wasn’t covered and the rental company billed me for days the car was in the shop. Took months to sort out. Now, if I’m driving somewhere remote or icy, I just pay for the extra insurance. Feels like overkill sometimes, but it’s less hassle if things go sideways.
Honestly, I hear you on the “feels like overkill” part. A lot of folks think credit card coverage is enough until something weird pops up in the fine print. Loss of use and diminished value—those are the sneaky ones. I’ve seen people get stuck with those bills and it’s just not worth the headache, especially if you’re out in the middle of nowhere and weather’s unpredictable. Paying a bit extra upfront can save a ton of stress later, even if it stings at first.
That’s a good point about loss of use and diminished value—those are the ones most people don’t even think about until they’re staring at a bill. I’ve seen folks assume their credit card covers everything, only to find out it doesn’t touch those fees or only kicks in after your own insurance. It’s not always clear-cut.
Here’s how I usually break it down: first, check what your personal auto policy covers (if you have one), then look at your credit card’s rental coverage. Sometimes there are weird exclusions, like “no coverage for trucks” or “no coverage outside the U.S.” Next, think about where you’ll be driving. Montana’s got some wild weather and remote stretches—if you get stuck waiting for a tow or repairs, that “loss of use” charge can add up fast.
Has anyone actually had to file a claim through their credit card or personal insurance for a rental? I’m curious if it was as smooth as advertised or if there were any surprises in the process.
