When traveling there are thousands of choices one has to make, be it the places for sleeping, or the routes, among others. However, there is one factor that most people tend to neglect, and that is the means of transport. When it comes to car rental, many travelers are quick to simply go with the cheapest deal without looking at what they need.
There are some situations when the increase in the rental car class can bring a lot of benefits to the customer. A vehicle that offers more comfort, more space, or better technology can make such drives quite enjoyable and give needed reassurance in difficult circumstances. Whether you are traveling with your family going on a business trip, or even cross-country in a rather rough terrain, choosing the right car can be crucial.
It is now time to consider specific situations where it makes sense to upgrade your rental car experience to the next level.
Long Trips
During the journey from New York to California, I began with a small, standard-issue compact rental car. By the time I arrived in Pennsylvania my back was sore and not having cruise control was inconvenient on my foot. And again in Ohio, the ‘step up’ from compact car to mid-size sedan proved useful and transformative. Lumbar support made the long drives comfortable and with adaptive cruise control, was useful during long drives. On the flat lands of the Midwest and over the undulating ridges of the Rockies, it came out well-endowed to meet all terrains. The increase in the beauty of sound transformed the seemingly repetitive view into a moving concert hall. This might have led to fewer stops to refuel the car thus giving me more time and less stress to get to my desired destination.
Family Vacation
The overall experience changed dramatically when the group decided to switch from a regular car rental to a minivan. When having a new baby who needs her crib, and two active toddlers who still require a bed and toys, space becomes a big issue. Sliding doors made buckling kids easy, while the third row gave our eldest his ‘kingdom’ with climate control and charging ports – no more squabbles. Safety systems like blind spot detection were a lifesaver in the busy city of Orlando. The trunk was large enough to accommodate both Mine and Max’s stroller, cooler, and everyone’s luggage.
Business Travel
When I had to go to a high-stakes conference in Silicon Valley I first rented an economy car. But I decided to change my car to a luxury sedan knowing that I would be transporting prospective investors. The exterior look of the house was very elegant, which gave an impression of the same. Inside, features such as noise cancellation ensured clear client calls, and the free WI-FI hotspot addressed connectivity issues between stations. The adjustable chairs, which have some features of massage, helped keep me awake, especially after busy sessions. This upgrade wasn’t about comfort but signaled accomplishments, which established a positive disposition for my sales pitches.
Inclement Weather
I got to learn the importance of upgrading in case one is to trek through harsh weather while working when on a work trip to Denver during winter. My originally rented car performed poorly in the snow, like I said, it was even fishtailing. Without any question, I took an All wheel drive SUV with winter tires. The contrast was striking – a sure-footed grip, even when driving along frozen mountain roads. Subsequently, during a heavy downpour that is very characteristic of Florida, the weight and stability control remained engaged enabling me to stay grounded on the highway while lighter cars hydroplaned. The high ground also helped me avoid swampy areas which I had realized was due to low ground clearance.
Health Concerns
From the experience, I once had to face a crucial visit to see my dear ones after hip surgery. My doctor told me I couldn’t drive long distances, but that was impossible; flying was out of the question. I swapped my regular car for a luxury model that’s popular among drivers with orthopedic seats. That is why just the multi-point adjustability and dynamic lumbar support made a world of difference. The car presented a relatively higher seating position and wider doors, aspects that made it easy for anyone to get in or out of the car without having to stretch. The heating of the seat massaged my muscles and the soft, damping suspension ensured I did not feel any jarring. These people, thanks to such a thoughtful upgrading of their offer, were able to turn what they once dreaded into a comfortable treatment.
Scenic Routes
During my Pacific Coast Highway tour, I specifically selected an economy car as a rental to save on fuel expenses. Nevertheless, low seating and small windows lessened the breathtaking scenes of the sea. I went for a convertible when I moved, and the change was dramatic. Pulling down the roof, I was fully embedded within elements of the surroundings—salt in the air, and cries of the seagulls. The car’s suspension was much better than the road and I was able to take my eyes off the road and enjoy the clifftop views, sunsets, and bends. This was not an upgrade of luxury about comfort; it radically transformed the way I felt about California and its natural splendor.
Luggage Excess
It was splendid traveling with my wife for two weeks, particularly visiting European countries; which turned out to be a retail shopping experience. Where by week’s end in Paris our souvenir count far outgrew the capacity of our compact rental car. And still, more frustration came as we tried to fit all into the little gap of time that we had, as planned by us. The day we replaced our car with a station wagon, the stress level was reduced. That vast space at the back allowed for our initial luggage, more art prints, wine bottles, and fashion finds. Low and wide jack allowed for easy loading of large bulky items. This spacious upgrade also protected most of our dearly bought and, perhaps, our holiday harmony.
Unfamiliar Terrain
When thinking of the car for a self-drive adventure across the less-traveled roads of Costa Rica, I opted for a sturdy 4×4 first. However, as I drove through the jungle roads, I felt edgy as if vulnerable to anything. I went back to the rental agency and hired an improved model of the SUV with better technology. Its GPS which was now equipped with detailed rural maps ensured me the kind of directions, I was in the uncharted territories. The 360-degree camera was one of the best inventions as it allowed me to make a check on the road less visible such as rocks or stumps. Lane departure warnings proved instrumental in maintaining me in the middle of narrow bridges while intelligent headlights enhanced visibility in dark rainforest regions. It gave safety and confidence to travel and navigate through uncharted territories and trails during this high-tech enhancement.