The best insurance for rental cars is offered by State Farm, Geico, and Allianz. These top providers stand out with competitive rates, extensive coverage options, and reliable customer service.

State Farm excels with its comprehensive policies and high customer satisfaction. Geico offers some of the most affordable rates with flexible coverage. Allianz is known for its robust international coverage and added protection options, ideal for travelers.

Company	Rank	Bundling Discount	A.M. Best	Best For	Jump to Pros/Cons
	#1	15%	B	Reliable Service	State Farm
	#2	12%	A++	Mobile App	Geico
	#3	15%	A+	Global Coverage	Allianz
	#4	10%	A+	Broad Coverage	Progressive
	#5	20%	A+	Comprehensive Plans	Allstate
	#6	14%	NR	Digital Experience	Sure
	#7	10%	A++	Military Families	USAA
	#8	15%	A+	Multiple Vehicles	Nationwide
	#9	12%	A	Flexible Options	Liberty Mutual
	#10	18%	A	Customer Support	American Family

This article explores how to buy car insurance at the best price. Keep reading to secure the most effective and affordable rental car insurance.

Ready to shop around for the best car insurance company near you? Enter your ZIP code above and see which one offers the coverage you need.

What You Should Know

• State Farm provides the best rental car insurance
• Affordable rental car insurance rates start at $27/month
• Coverage options include collision and liability protection for rentals

#1 – State Farm: Top Pick Overall

Pros

• Reliable Service: State Farm is widely recognized for its reliable service, making it a leading option for the best rental car insurance.
• Local Agent Network: State Farm provides personalized rental insurance support with a strong network of local agents.
• User-Friendly Mobile App: Read our State Farm review to explore how to manage rental car insurance with its convenient mobile app.

Cons

• Lower Financial Rating: State Farm's A.M. Best rating of B may concern some customers looking for the best insurance for rental cars with high financial stability.
• Limited Coverage Options: State Farm may not offer as many specialized options on rental car insurance.

#2 – Geico: Best Mobile App

Pros

• Extensive Online Tools: Geico's comprehensive website makes it easy to buy rental car insurance online.
• Nationwide Accessibility: Geico is available across the country, making it a reliable choice for rental car insurance.
• Highly Rated Mobile App: Geico’s mobile app streamlines the management of your rental car insurance.

Cons

• Lower Bundling Savings: Geico's lower bundling discounts might not offer the biggest savings for those looking for the best insurance for rental cars.
• Customer Service Variability: Inconsistent customer service could affect the overall experience of buying rental car insurance from Geico.

#3 – Allianz: Best for Global Coverage

Pros

• Global Coverage: Allianz provides international coverage, making it the best insurance for rental cars across multiple countries.
• Diverse Product Offering: Allianz's wide range of insurance products for rental cars ensures you can find the coverage you need.
• Established Reputation: With a long history of reliability, Allianz is regarded as the best insurance company for rental cars. Learn more in our Allianz review.

Cons

• Complex Policy Options: The variety of coverage options may complicate finding the best insurance for rental cars that suits your needs easily.
• Higher Premium Costs: Extensive rental car coverage through Allianz could lead to higher premiums.

#4 – Progressive: Best for Broad Coverage

Pros

• Broad Coverage Choices: Our review of Progressive highlights its wide range of coverage, making it a top choice for rental car insurance to accommodate various needs.
• Innovative Usage-Based Insurance: With options like Snapshot, Progressive rewards safe drivers with cheap rental car insurance rates.
• Accessible Online Services: Progressive’s online services make managing your rental car insurance straightforward.

Cons

• Lower Bundling Savings: Progressive’s bundling discounts might not provide the best savings for those seeking cheap insurance for rental cars.
• Inconsistent Customer Service: Variability in customer service could detract from getting the best auto insurance for rental cars.

#5 – Allstate: Best for Comprehensive Plans

Pros

• Comprehensive Plan Options: Allstate’s wide range of plan options makes it one of the best insurance providers for rental cars, offering tailored coverage to suit different needs.
• Strong Community Engagement: Read in our Allstate review how its involvement in local communities helps build trust, making it a reliable choice for rental car insurance.
• Advanced Mobile App: The Allstate mobile app enhances user experience, ensuring it is among the most convenient insurance options for rental cars.

Cons

• Higher Premium Costs: Allstate’s comprehensive coverage may lead to higher rental car insurance premiums.
• Pressure to Add Coverage: Some drivers report pressure from Allstate agents to add extra coverage to rental car policies.

#6 – Sure: Best Digital Experience

Pros

• Seamless Digital Experience: Sure’s focus on digital innovation makes it the best insurance for rental cars for those who prefer a fully online experience.
• Modern Approach: Sure’s tech-driven approach appeals to customers seeking the best insurance for rental cars with a digital-first mindset.
• Quick and Easy Quotes: Sure’s streamlined process for getting quotes and purchasing policies positions it as one of the best insurance providers for rental cars.

Cons

• Not Rated by A.M. Best: The absence of an A.M. Best rating could be a concern for customers seeking the best insurance for rental cars with guaranteed financial stability.
• Limited Coverage Options: Sure may not offer as many rental car insurance coverage choices, which could limit its appeal to those needing comprehensive options.

#7 – USAA: Best for Military Families

Pros

• Exclusive Military Focus: USAA rental car insurance is tailored to military families’ unique needs with special discounts.
• Exceptional Customer Service: USAA’s top-rated customer service makes it one of the best insurance providers for rental cars.
• Highly Regarded Mobile App: USAA’s user-friendly mobile app simplifies rental car insurance policy management.

Cons

• Restricted Eligibility: USAA rental car insurance is only available to military families. Read our USAA review to see who qualifies.
• Lower Bundling Savings: USAA’s lower bundling discount may not provide the best savings for those looking for cheap auto insurance for rental cars.

#8 – Nationwide: Best for Multiple Vehicles

Pros

• Mutli-Vehicle Discounts: Insuring multiple leased or owned vehicles can help you save 20% on rental car insurance.
• Vanishing Deductibles: Since full coverage is mandatory on leased vehicles, Nationwide reduces your rental car insurance deductible if you avoid filing claims.
• Customizable Policy Options: Nationwide offers customizable options, making it the best insurance for rental cars. Read more in our Nationwide review.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: Nationwide’s comprehensive coverage may lead to higher rental car insurance premiums in some states.
• Complex Policy Options: The variety of Nationwide rental car insurance options might make it challenging to find straightforward solutions.

#9 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Flexible Options

Pros

• Flexible Coverage Choices: Liberty Mutual offers various customizable insurance options for rental cars. Get more information in our Liberty Mutual review.
• Accessible Online Tools: Liberty Mutual’s online tools make managing rental car insurance easy.
• Wide Range of Insurance Products: Liberty Mutual allows customers to consolidate rental car insurance with their other insurance policies.

Cons

• Lower Bundling Savings: Liberty Mutual’s bundling discounts might not provide the best savings for those seeking cheaper insurance rates for rental cars.
• Higher Premiums for Customization: Customizable coverage options might lead to more expensive insurance for rental cars.

#10 – American Family: Best for Customer Support

Pros

• Comprehensive Support: AmFam's support services make it one of the best insurance providers for rental cars, offering resources to help manage policies effectively.
• User-Friendly Website and App: The easy-to-use website and app from American Family ensure it’s among the best insurance options for rental cars.
• Strong Local Presence: American Family’s local agents provide personalized service, making it a trusted choice for rental car insurance.

Cons

• Limited Availability: American Family rental car insurance is not available in all states. Get details in our American Family review.
• Higher Premiums: The comprehensive coverage and support options might lead to higher rental car insurance premiums with AmFam.

Comparing Rental Car Insurance Costs by Provider

Finding the best car insurance for rental cars involves more than just picking a plan. Dive into the details with our table breaking down the costs for minimum and full coverage:

USAA offers the most affordable options, with minimum coverage at $27/month and full coverage at $82/month. Geico and Nationwide follow closely, with minimum coverage starting at $28 and $29 per month, respectively.

State Farm isn't the cheapest rental car insurance company, but it still has competitive monthly rates at $33. At the higher end, Allstate stands out with minimum coverage at $38/month and full coverage at $98/month.

How to Save on Rental Car Insurance Without Compromising Coverage

To save on rental car insurance while maintaining good coverage, start by checking if your personal auto insurance covers rental cars. Many companies do, which could eliminate the need for additional coverage from the rental agency.

Should I buy rental car insurance? You don't have to if your personal policy provides car insurance for rentals.

If you get rental car coverage through your provider, you can save money with insurance discounts. Our comprehensive table shows car insurance discounts from top providers for rental cars:

With ten leading insurance companies featured, you can easily see which discounts are available, making it simpler to maximize savings and find the best deal for your rental car needs.

Additionally, booking rental cars in advance and prepaying can sometimes lead to discounts on both the rental rate and insurance costs.

Understanding Different Insurance Options for Rental Cars

Choosing the appropriate coverage while renting a car can greatly affect your financial protection and overall peace of mind. Here are the types of coverage for rental cars:

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): CDW covers repair costs for damage or theft of the rental car, although some exclusions may apply.
• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): LDW combines collision damage and theft coverage, offering comprehensive protection against unexpected costs.
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): PAI covers medical expenses resulting from accidents while driving the rental car.
• Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI): SLI extends liability coverage beyond the basic rental agreement to cover potential lawsuits or significant medical expenses.
• Roadside Assistance: Insurance companies with roadside assistance help with flat tires and dead batteries, adding convenience and peace of mind during your rental.

Some credit cards offer rental car insurance benefits when you use the card to pay. Compare the rental company’s insurance options with your existing coverage to find the most cost-effective choice.

Comparing Rental Car Insurance Quotes Before You Buy

State Farm, Geico, and Allianz have the best insurance for rental cars. If you use these providers, confirm that your personal policy extends to rental cars before buying coverage at the counter as this will save you money.

When securing cheap insurance for rental cars, comparing quotes and discounts is crucial. Meticulously comparing quotes from different providers is the top way customers save money on car insurance

Whether you're renting a car for a vacation or a business trip, taking the time to compare will help you find the best insurance for rental cars. Enter your ZIP code into our free quote tool below to find the best policy today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I purchase rental car insurance after I pick up the vehicle?

Yes, you can typically purchase rental car insurance at the rental counter when you pick up the vehicle. However, it’s often more cost-effective to arrange insurance beforehand through a third-party provider or your existing insurance policy to ensure you get the best rates and coverage options.

How do I choose the best insurance for rental cars?

To choose the best insurance for rental cars, compare coverage options, cost, and customer reviews. Look for policies that offer collision damage waiver (CDW), liability insurance coverage, and theft protection. Evaluate your existing insurance to see if it extends to rental cars, and consider any additional coverage you might need.

Do debit cards cover car rental insurance?

Many credit cards offer default cardholder benefits, including car rental insurance coverage in many cases saving you on per-day insurance at the rental counter. Debit cards, on the other hand, often do not offer these same benefits.

Does my personal auto insurance cover rental cars?

Many personal auto insurance policies do cover rental cars, but the extent of coverage can vary. Check with your insurance provider to understand if your current policy includes rental car coverage and whether it meets your needs for protection and liability.

How can I get the best deal on rental car insurance?

To get the best deal on rental car insurance, compare quotes from different providers, use your existing auto insurance or credit card benefits, and check for discounts. Booking in advance can also help reduce costs. Explore your car insurance options by entering your ZIP code below and finding which companies have the lowest rates.

Do you need extra insurance when renting a car?

Should I buy rental car insurance? No, because in most instances, rental car insurance overlaps with your personal auto insurance policy, meaning you likely won't need to pay for duplicate coverage. However, you can get an add-on to your travel insurance policy for rental car coverage.

Are credit card rental car insurance benefits sufficient?

Credit card rental car insurance benefits can be sufficient for basic coverage, but they often have limitations. They typically provide primary coverage for collision damage, but might not cover liability, theft, or other types of damage. Review your credit card’s terms and compare them with other insurance options to ensure you have adequate protection.

What is the difference between SLI and LDW insurance for rental cars?

The LDW includes theft protection and covers you when your car rental is lost or damaged. Whereas SLI covers you for up to $1 million in damages to the third party for bodily injury and/or property damages sustained as a result of an accident while the renter is operating a rental vehicle.

What is the best insurance for rental cars?

The best insurance for rental cars typically includes comprehensive insurance coverage that protects you against damage, theft, and liability. Companies like Allianz, Geico, and State Farm are popular choices for their extensive coverage options and competitive rates.

What is a collision damage waiver (CDW) and is it necessary?

A collision damage waiver (CDW) is an insurance option offered by rental car companies that covers damage to the rental vehicle. While not always necessary if you have adequate personal or credit card insurance, CDW can provide peace of mind by covering any gaps in your existing coverage and reducing your out-of-pocket expenses in case of an accident.