Insurance & Policies 6 min read
10 Costly Car Rental Mistakes to Avoid Before You Drive Off
Avoid hidden fees: pre-existing damage photos, toll administrative charges, extra driver fees, and late return grace periods.
Written byNathaniel Grant
Senior Travel Editor & Aviation Specialist
Fact-checked by Marcus Vance
Updated September 2026
AI Travel Summary & Overview
Guide Key Takeaways & Overview
Avoid hidden fees: pre-existing damage photos, toll administrative charges, extra driver fees, and late return grace periods.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- The Pre-Rental Inspection Video
The Pre-Rental Inspection Video
Always take a 60-second walkaround video of the car with your smartphone before leaving the lot, capturing all existing scratches, windshield chips, and tire tread.
Reserve your rental car online
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a grace period when returning a rental car late?
Most rental companies offer a 29-minute grace period. Returning 30+ minutes late can trigger an extra full-day charge.