There’s this really special feeling when you’re hitting the road with your friends. Music blasting, snacks within reach, and the windows rolled down as the sun sets in the distance.
A road trip like that feels like a rite of passage. But the car you pick can make or break the entire experience. Not every vehicle is cut out for a long drive packed with people, bags, and hours of memories waiting to happen.
Before you settle for whatever’s left in the rental lot, it’s worth knowing what features will keep everyone comfortable throughout the trip.
Spacious Interiors Make All the Difference
Nobody wants to be cramped in the backseat while someone’s backpack eats up all the legroom. When you’re planning a road trip with friends, look for a rental car that offers plenty of space.
Think beyond just how many people the car can technically seat. You want to check if the backseat has enough width and legroom for your tallest friend to stretch out without grumbling.
SUVs might not sound glamorous, but they often provide that much-needed room to relax, especially when the trip involves hours on the highway. In the US, SUVs like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Land Rover Defender are popular choices when it comes to high-quality, spacious interiors.
It’s not just about comfort, either. A roomier car means fewer pit stops because everyone’s constantly shifting around trying to get comfortable. The less distracted the driver is by complaints from the back, the safer your trip will be.
A Good Sound System is Non-Negotiable
A road trip is incomplete without a great playlist, and that playlist deserves to sound amazing. Whether it’s blasting throwback hits or taking turns playing everyone’s favorite song, the car’s sound system is a huge part of setting the mood. You don’t want to be stuck in a car where the audio is tinny or cuts out every time you hit the gas.
If most of you are iPhone users, look for a rental car that supports Apple CarPlay. That way, you can easily access your music, podcasts, or navigation apps without fumbling with your phone.
According to BOSS Audio Systems, Apple CarPlay is a smart way to use smartphones (iPhones) in your car. This system seamlessly integrates your smartphone with your car’s built audio system.
High-resolution audio is another feature you’ll appreciate once you’re a few hours in and still jamming out. Crisp, clear sound just hits differently when you’re cruising down the open road.
If you’re lucky enough to score a car equipped with the premium BOSS Audio BE62CP sound system, you’re in for a treat. This BOSS audio system is known for delivering rich sound quality that can easily fill the entire cabin.
Trunk Space You Can Count On
It’s amazing how quickly bags, coolers, camping gear, and random road trip essentials pile up when you’re traveling with friends. If the trunk is too small, you’ll be playing Tetris just to make everything fit or worse, cramming gear into the backseat. That’s not how you want to start your adventure.
When choosing a rental, check the trunk capacity ahead of time. If you’re able to see the car in person, great. If not, pull up the model online and get a feel for how much it can actually hold.
Crossovers, full-size sedans, or even wagons can surprise you with the space they offer without being too bulky to drive. Again, if you’re opting for an SUV and want good trunk space, see if you can rent a Volkswagen Atlas or the Lexus TX. They both offer over 97 cubic feet of cargo space.
Fuel Efficiency Matters More Than You Think
It’s easy to forget about gas mileage when you’re dreaming about scenic routes and roadside diners. However, fuel efficiency is one of those practical details that’ll impact your trip and your budget. The last thing you want is to be stopping every two hours just to fill up.
On top of all that, fuel prices are unpredictable. A month back, in the US, fuel prices were going up. However, recently, these prices seem to be dropping. Hence, no matter what, you’ll want your rental to derive the maximum efficiency out of the fuel, so you won’t have to refuel frequently.
Check the fuel economy of the car you’re renting, especially if you’re planning to cover a lot of miles. Hybrid models or fuel-efficient sedans might not seem as exciting as a big SUV, but they’ll save you money and time. If you’re renting an SUV for its spaciousness, make sure that it’s fuel-efficient as well.
Navigation Systems That Work
Sure, everyone has their phone, but having a built-in navigation system in your rental car is still incredibly useful. It keeps your phone free for music or taking photos, and you won’t have to worry about draining your battery before reaching your destination.
Look for a car with a responsive, up-to-date GPS system that’s easy to use. A good screen size also helps so you’re not squinting trying to figure out which exit to take. If the car offers real-time traffic updates, that’s even better. You’ll get to avoid sitting in traffic while everyone argues about which route to take.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How important is rental car insurance?
Rental car insurance is important because it protects you from costly damages or liability if an accident happens. Without coverage, you could face high repair or medical bills. Some personal auto insurance policies cover rentals, but checking beforehand is essential. Rental companies also offer coverage for added peace of mind.
Can you drive a rental car out of state?
Yes, most rental car companies allow you to drive out of state, but it’s best to check their policy. Some companies require notifying them in advance or may charge extra fees. Driving across borders, especially internationally, might have stricter rules. Always review rental agreements to avoid unexpected penalties.
Do rental car companies limit how long you can drive a rental car in a day?
Rental car companies don’t usually limit how long you can drive in a day, but they often impose mileage restrictions. Some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others charge extra for exceeding a daily limit. Reviewing the contract helps avoid surprise fees. It’s important to choose the plan that fits your travel needs.
Choosing the right rental car for a trip with friends is about way more than just picking something big enough to fit everyone. It’s about comfort, safety, entertainment, and making sure the drive is part of the fun, not just a way to get where you’re going.
So, next time you’re planning that weekend getaway or cross-country adventure, don’t just settle. Take the time to pick a car that has everything you need. Because when the road stretches out ahead of you, the last thing you want is regrets about the ride you’re in.
