Car rental in USA Hawaii

Renting a Car in Hawaii: The 50th US State

For many, Hawaii is synonymous with a paradise beach vacation, and indeed this volcanic archipelago in the middle of the Pacific lives up to the hype. Consisting of 8 major islands, 6 of which are open to visitors, the laid-back nation is the perfect place to fulfil your dreams of an island nirvana. Visitors flock to Hawaii to engage in watersports such as in kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, parasailing, and scuba diving in the crystal blue island waters. There are even excursions where you can have a chance to swim with the dolphins. Explore the land by foot or go for a helicopter ride to take in the views.

When visiting any country for the first time, one of the biggest treats is trying the different fare that the place is famous for. In Hawaii, there is a selection of Portuguese, Asian and Hawaiian dishes for catering to the palate of different groups. In fact, the origins of ‘fusion’ food are believed to be traced back to this locale.

The region is also famous for its fruits such as papayas, bananas, pineapples, guavas, and mangoes. Fresh sugar cane is also available at most places to quench your thirst when the temperatures can soar during the day. You can relish a traditional Hawaiian feast at several locations on the island and some resorts as well. The food is arranged in buffet style with background music and Hula dances for your enjoyment.

Hawaii: Auto Rentals are a Convenient Option

The easiest way of exploring the different islands in Hawaii is by renting a car, so if you want to make the most of your Hawaiian trip, consider it good advice to hire an automobile. Driving through the roads in Hawaii also makes for an unforgettable experience, and the scenic beauty of the tropical beaches, forest, beautiful flowers, and volcanic mountains is sure to spellbind you.

The most admired tourist destinations in Hawaii are not concentrated in a single area, they are spread out. You may want to soak in the breathtaking sights of the waterfalls, go on hiking trails, relax on the beaches, or visit an active volcano. Renting an automobile is the only way of doing so at your own leisure, without having to brave the unruly crowds. Relying on public transport or taxis would also mean missing out on some of the hidden gems that the islands have to offer.

When to Go

The weather in Hawaii is pleasant throughout the year, but the best months to visit are from April to October. If you like the rains, when the climate is cool and the islands are at their greenest, try visiting between November and March. The dry season runs between April and October, although the heat can get intense during the early half of the summer. The late summer is perfect for a vacation with the family when it becomes a little cooler.

The peak season is actually during the winter, when a lot of people from the colder parts of the USA decide to escape for some sun. If visiting during these months, you must make your car rental bookings in advance to get the best deals.

Car Rental Rates

Where the car rental costs in Hawaii are concerned, you can expect to pay anything between $25 and $60 per day, depending on the class of vehicle and the season. However, if you compare the rates that are offered by the different companies, then you can avail the lowest ones to find a good bargain. Car hire operators that provide cheap rates include Dollar, Alamo, Thrifty Enterprise, Budget, and Avis. Here is a sample of different offers available:

• Hyundai Accent or similar (economy class) – $38/day
• Nissan Versa or similar (compact class) – $40/day
• Hyundai Elantra or similar (intermediate class) – $44/day
• Chevrolet Cruze or similar (standard class) – $49/day
• Chrysler 200 or similar (fullsize class) – $50/day

Car Rental Savings

1. Book your rented cars well in advance if planning your travel during the high seasons of winter and late summer.
2. Sometimes, your car and credit card insurance coverage is sufficient to cover the insurance costs of the rented cars and extra coverage may not be required – make sure to learn about them and carry your insurance ID as well.
3. Avoid picking up rented cars from the airports to save on taxes and other expenses.
4. Online bookings are cheaper and if you combine them with your hotel and flight reservations, it has cost-saving benefits.
5. Make use of the weekly packages, they have lower price quotes as compared to the per day costs.
6. Return the car on time if you wish to avoid spending on overtime charges.

Tips & Regulations

Drivers under 25 will probably have to pay a surcharge, and you must be over 21 to hire a car at all. Although it may feel like a different world, in Hawaii you’re still in the USA, so your regular driver’s license will be enough to drive legally with, and the usual rules of the world apply. There is a Hawaiian language, but English is spoken as a native tongue, and the currency is USD. Driving in Hawaii is usually quite hassle-free, although drivers may have to get used to giving pedestrians more right of way than they may be accustomed to.