How to Avoid Paying Extra for Surround View Cameras in Rental Cars

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Research rental companies that include surround view cameras in their standard packages.
• Book your rental car in advance to increase your chances of securing a vehicle with the desired features.
• Leverage loyalty programs for potential free upgrades.
• Negotiate at the rental counter for possible complimentary upgrades.
• Consider alternative features like backup cameras or parking sensors.

Introduction

Renting a car can be a convenient way to explore new destinations, but hidden fees and optional add-ons can quickly inflate your budget. One such feature is the surround view camera, a high-tech tool that enhances driving safety and convenience. However, paying extra for this feature isn’t always necessary. In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies to avoid unnecessary costs while still enjoying a seamless driving experience.

Why Surround View Cameras Are Popular

Surround view cameras provide a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking, maneuvering in tight spaces, and navigating unfamiliar roads easier. While convenient, they are often offered as a premium add-on by rental companies. Understanding how to circumvent these extra charges can save you money without compromising on safety.

The Financial Impact of Optional Features

Rental companies often market high-tech features like surround view cameras as essential upgrades. However, these add-ons can significantly increase your rental costs. By being informed and strategic, you can avoid these unnecessary expenses and allocate your budget to other travel priorities.

Research Rental Companies and Packages

Not all rental companies charge extra for surround view cameras. Some include advanced features in their standard packages. Doing thorough research can help you identify these cost-effective options.

Compare Rental Companies

Start by comparing rental companies and their vehicle offerings. Look for providers that include surround view cameras as a standard feature in their fleet. Websites and apps like Kayak, Expedia, or Rentalcars.com can simplify this process by filtering vehicles with specific features.

Read Customer Reviews

Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into which rental companies offer the best value. Look for feedback mentioning surround view cameras and whether they were included in the base price or incurred additional charges.

Book in Advance

Booking your rental car early can increase your chances of securing a vehicle with advanced features at no extra cost.

Early Booking Benefits

Rental companies often reserve their premium vehicles for early bookings. By planning ahead, you can lock in a car equipped with a surround view camera without paying a premium.

Monitor Price Changes

Use price tracking tools to monitor fluctuations in rental rates. Booking early and rebooking if prices drop can help you secure a better deal.

Leverage Loyalty Programs

Many rental companies offer loyalty programs that provide perks, including free upgrades to vehicles with advanced features.

Join Loyalty Programs

Sign up for loyalty programs with major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, or Enterprise. These programs often reward frequent renters with complimentary upgrades, including vehicles with surround view cameras.

Use Points for Upgrades

If you’ve accumulated points through a loyalty program, consider using them to upgrade to a vehicle with a surround view camera. This can help you avoid paying extra out of pocket.

Negotiate at the Counter

Sometimes, a simple conversation at the rental counter can result in a better deal.

Ask About Upgrades

Politely inquire if a vehicle with a surround view camera is available at no extra cost. Rental agents may offer upgrades if they have excess inventory.

Highlight Loyalty Status

If you’re a member of a loyalty program, mention it at the counter. Agents are often more willing to accommodate loyal customers with complimentary upgrades.

Consider Alternative Features

If a surround view camera isn’t essential, consider other features that can enhance your driving experience without the added cost.

Backup Cameras

Many vehicles come standard with backup cameras, which provide sufficient assistance for parking and reversing. This can be a cost-effective alternative to a full surround view system.

Parking Sensors

Parking sensors are another useful feature that can help you navigate tight spaces without the need for a surround view camera.

Use Your Own Navigation Tools

Modern smartphones and GPS devices can provide similar functionality to surround view cameras, often at no extra cost.

Smartphone Apps

Apps like Google Maps or Waze offer real-time navigation and traffic updates, reducing the need for advanced in-car systems.

Portable Cameras

Consider bringing a portable backup camera or dashcam, which can provide additional visibility without relying on rental car features.

Check Insurance Coverage

Some insurance policies or credit cards offer rental car benefits that include access to premium features.

Review Your Policy

Check if your car insurance or credit card rental coverage includes access to vehicles with advanced features like surround view cameras.

Use Credit Card Benefits

Certain credit cards offer rental car perks, such as free upgrades or discounts on premium features. Review your card’s benefits to take advantage of these offers.

Opt for Smaller Rental Companies

Smaller, local rental companies may offer more competitive pricing and include advanced features in their standard packages.

Explore Local Options

Research smaller rental companies in your destination. These providers may offer vehicles with surround view cameras at lower rates than major chains.

Read the Fine Print

Carefully review the rental agreement to ensure that advanced features are included in the base price and not subject to additional fees.

Rent During Off-Peak Times

Renting during off-peak periods can increase your chances of securing a vehicle with advanced features at no extra cost.

Avoid Peak Travel Seasons

Rental companies are more likely to offer upgrades during slower periods when demand is lower. Plan your trip during off-peak times to take advantage of this.

Weekday Rentals

Renting a car on weekdays rather than weekends can also increase your chances of securing a better deal, as demand is typically lower.

Inspect the Vehicle Before Driving

Before accepting the rental car, inspect it to ensure that all features, including the surround view camera, are functioning properly.

Test the Camera

If the vehicle is advertised as having a surround view camera, test it to confirm it’s working. If not, request a different vehicle or a discount.

Document Any Issues

Take photos or videos of any issues with the vehicle to avoid being charged for pre-existing damage or missing features.

Conclusion

Paying extra for a surround view camera in a rental car isn’t always necessary. By researching rental companies, booking in advance, leveraging loyalty programs, and exploring alternative features, you can enjoy a safe and convenient driving experience without breaking the bank. Remember to inspect the vehicle before driving and negotiate at the counter to maximize your savings. With these strategies, you can avoid unnecessary costs and make the most of your rental car experience.

FAQ

• Q: Can I add surround view camera after renting the car?

  A: No, surround view cameras are built-in features that cannot be added after renting the car.

• Q: What if the rental company says no surround view camera is available?

  A: If the surround view camera is not available, consider backup cameras or use smartphone navigation apps as alternative features.

• Q: What should I do with issues found during the inspection of the rental car?

  A: Document any issues found during the inspection of the rental car. Take photos or videos and report them to the rental company to ensure you aren’t charged for pre-existing damage or missing features.