I hear you on the Montana roads—gravel and random debris everywhere. I’ve rented a few times out there and always debate the insurance. One time, I got a tiny windshield chip that wasn’t there before, and the rental company tried to charge me for a full replacement. My credit card covered it, but only after a ton of paperwork. Ever notice how some companies are way stricter about “wear and tear” than others? Makes me wonder if it’s just luck of the draw or if certain brands are more forgiving.
Yeah, I’ve noticed that too—some rental places act like every little scratch is a federal case. Last summer, I got dinged for a door scuff that was barely visible. Honestly, I think it depends on the location and who’s working the desk that day... kind of a gamble.
Honestly, I think it depends on the location and who’s working the desk that day... kind of a gamble.
That’s exactly why I always end up debating the insurance thing. It feels like you can be super careful, but then you return the car and someone’s got a magnifying glass out looking for anything to charge you for. I get that they need to protect their cars, but sometimes it’s just overkill.
I’ve read that some credit cards cover rental damage, but I’ve never actually had to file a claim through one—has anyone here done that? Did it actually work out, or was it a hassle? I’m always torn between just paying for the extra coverage at the counter or trusting my card will have my back if something happens.
It’s weird, too, because last time I rented in Montana, they barely glanced at the car when I brought it back. Totally different vibe from renting in big cities where they inspect every inch. Wonder if it’s just luck or if smaller locations are less strict?
Title: Rental Car Insurance in Montana—Worth It or Not?
- 100% agree, it’s a total toss-up depending on where you rent and who’s working. I’ve had the same experience—big city airport, they’re practically crawling under the car with a flashlight. Small town Montana? Guy just waved me through, barely looked up from his phone.
- About the credit card coverage: I’ve actually used it once (not in Montana, but in Utah). My card covered the damage, but it was a process. Had to get all the paperwork from the rental company, submit photos, fill out forms... took about two months to get reimbursed. Not impossible, just kind of a pain. If you go this route, keep every receipt and take a bunch of photos before and after.
- I’m always tempted to skip the extra insurance, especially since my regular auto policy covers rentals too. But then I get paranoid about some tiny scratch turning into a $500 charge. The peace of mind is nice, but man, those daily fees add up fast.
- Smaller locations definitely seem more chill. Maybe it’s just less volume, or maybe they’re not as worried about minor stuff because they know the roads are rough anyway. I’ve noticed they’re more likely to overlook little dings or dirt, especially if you’re friendly and not returning the car trashed.
- One thing I always do: walk around the car with my phone and take a quick video before driving off. Doesn’t matter if it’s Montana or LAX. Saved me once when they tried to blame me for a scratch that was already there.
- At the end of the day, I usually skip the extra insurance unless it’s a super expensive rental or I’m in a place where I know they’re strict. Just feels like a gamble either way, but I’d rather save the cash most of the time.
Guess it comes down to how much risk you’re willing to take on. For me, in Montana? I’ll roll the dice and trust my card and insurance... but I totally get why people pay extra for peace of mind.
That “walk around the car with my phone and take a quick video before driving off” move is clutch. I wish more folks did that—it’s like your own little insurance policy, minus the paperwork.
Honestly, you nailed it with
Sometimes you just gotta trust your gut (and your credit card perks). Montana’s laid-back vibe helps, but yeah, those airport agents can sniff out a scratch from space. At the end of the day, if you can sleep at night rolling the dice, you’re probably fine. If not... well, there’s always that extra peace of mind for a few bucks more.Just feels like a gamble either way, but I’d rather save the cash most of the time.
