The best family car rentals for road trips

Choose a family car rental that:

• Offers safety features and fuel efficiency
• Has enough space for people and luggage
• Is equipped with modern tech

Every memorable family road trip begins with choosing a reliable vehicle – one that’s spacious and comfortable for a long drive. The right family car rental can dramatically elevate your experience, be it a cross-country adventure or a weekend getaway. This road trip rental guide will help you select the perfect family-friendly car for your next trip.

What to consider when choosing a family rental car

Before zeroing in on a vacation car, here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Safety features: Prioritize safety – look for features like adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, and anti-lock brakes (ABS).

• Space and seating capacity: Choose a car with enough room for your family and luggage, including essentials like sports gear, strollers, or wheelchairs for people with restricted mobility.

• Modern conveniences: Opt for a car with tech essentials like climate control, smartphone integration, and a navigation system to make long drives more enjoyable.

• Fuel efficiency: Since road trips require refueling, pick a car that offers good mileage to save on gas.

• Rental costs: Account for the car rental cost, insurance, tolls, and any additional fees the rental company may charge.

• Conditions: Whether on snowy mountain roads or through the desert, the weather and terrain you’re driving in will influence which vehicle you pick.

Understanding rental car categories

An array of options are available when it comes to the cars you can rent. Big rental companies categorize their vehicles by size, type, and features. Understanding the different rental car categories can help you make the right decision for your needs.

• Economy and compact: This type is perfect for small families going on shorter trips with minimal luggage and a tighter budget.

• Intermediate: Mid-sized cars can accommodate up to five people, offer more luggage space, and are fuel-efficient.

• Full-size: Ideal for long-distance travel, these large sedans have ample legroom and trunk space.

• SUVs: Due to their size, SUVs offer more flexibility, decent seating, extra cargo capacity, and off-road capabilities.

• Minivans or passenger vans: Larger families find it more convenient to rent vans, given their extra luggage space and seating capacity.

• RVs: Like a home on wheels, RVs are perfect for multi-day trips and camping excursions. They’re equipped with a sleeping area, kitchenette, and sometimes a built-in bathroom.

• Luxury and premium: With high-end features and plush interiors, these top-tier cars are ideal for families who want to travel in style.

SUV or minivan? What is the best rental car for a family?

Not sure whether to rent an SUV or a minivan? Let’s compare their features so you can choose the best fit for your trip.

SUV:

Choose an SUV if you want a mix of comfort and adventure. Their four-wheel-drive capability allows for an effortless driving experience across various terrains. They also offer enough space for up to seven passengers without too much luggage.

Minivan:

Choose a minivan if your family is larger and you prioritize practicality over style. Most minivans seat about eight passengers and have collapsible seats for extra luggage space and sliding doors for easy access. They’re also cheaper than SUVs.

Best car rentals for cargo space

For extra cargo space, a minivan like the Honda Odyssey is a great choice for a family car rental. Its removable seats create extra room for luggage, camping gear, or bikes.

You should also consider an SUV, which—thanks to their foldable seats—provides reasonable luggage storage and is a breeze to drive both in the city and off road. SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban are great for any long road trip. If you need more cargo space, consider renting a car with a roof rack.

Best car rentals for larger families

For families of about eight, the obvious choice is a roomy minivan like the Chrysler Pacifica. Its large seating capacity lets the whole family enjoy the open road together. These minivans also come with other advantages, such as easy third-row access, rear entertainment systems, and extra storage compartments.

If your family has more than eight members, opt for a passenger van like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. They offer more flexible seating configurations than a minivan and are ideal for long road trips. Features like separate temperature controls, reclining seats, and overhead storage ensure everyone’s comfortable.

Best car rentals for adventure trails

Families going on an off-the-beaten-path adventure need a vehicle that's not only safe but also built for the ride. SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser have the powerful engine, high-quality tires, and superior suspension that you’ll need. With their elevated ground clearance and four-wheel-drive systems, SUVs are built to tackle trails that are rocky, muddy, or snowy. Plus, their spacious interiors provide plenty of room for both your gear and family, making them ideal for any adventure.

FAQs

Do rental cars have child seats?

Yes. Most car rental companies offer child seats for an additional charge. However, since availability can be limited, it's a good idea to reserve one in advance. You can also bring your own – just make sure it meets local safety regulations.

Can I add extra drivers to my family rental car?

Rental companies usually let you assign additional drivers, as long as they meet the age and license requirements. This typically comes with an extra fee. However, some companies waive extra driver fees for spouses or domestic partners, so just ask about it before booking.

Are pets allowed in a rental car?

Yes. You can rent pet-friendly cars that come with protective seat covers, pet barriers, or carriers. It’s always recommended to go through the rental company’s pet policy, which may include extra fees, cleaning instructions, or restrictions.