Car Rental in Honolulu: 4 Helpful Tips

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A car rental in Honolulu is essential when you want to explore while traveling to Hawaii. Here are 4 helpful tips to maximize your car rental while you’re in Honolulu.
When visiting Hawaii,  there are many unique experiences on Oahu you should try, especially around Honolulu. Just note that there are a few things you should consider, such as the time of year you visit the island, as it could impact your trip. The best time to visit Honolulu is in the fall and winter months, as attractions are less crowded, festivals are plentiful, and airfare and room rates are at their lowest. However, there will be a higher chance of rain, so getting around the island will be more challenging. If you are thinking of coming to Honolulu in those months, or any time of the year, one of the best choices you can make is to rent a car.
With a personal car, you avoid these hassles. You can travel between locations you want to visit, stay dry, and better enjoy your sightseeing experience. If you’re interested in acquiring a rental car, here are some helpful tips to maximize your vehicle.
A car rental is essential to exploring Honolulu.
Consider Driving Requirements
Many tourists underestimate driver requirements when renting a car, which can quickly add up if you’re not careful. While Hawaii’s legal minimum driving age is 17, you must be at least 18 to rent a car. Some car rental companies have increased this limit to 21 and even charge a “young driver’s fee” for those under 25. Depending on the company, this policy can charge you around $15 to $35 a day, which is a significant expense to consider. In addition, foreign tourists who don’t have a US driver’s license may also need to pay additional fees in their home country to secure an international driver’s license.
Rent at the Honolulu Airport
Due to recent world events, the price for almost everything rose significantly in 2021 and 2022. Although prices have dipped since then, they’re still much higher than four years ago, making it essential to maximize every dollar you have.
Generally,  renting a car at Honolulu Airport is much cheaper than renting at Waikiki, as it’s a resort town known to charge higher rates. Many car rental companies are available at the Consolidated Rent-A-Car (Conrac) Facility at the airport, such as Alamo Rent a Car, Dollar Rent a Car, and Payless Car Rental. This leaves you with plenty of vehicle choices depending on your desired experience, whether a “top-down, open-air feeling” from a convertible, a 4×4 Jeep to get off-road, or a larger minivan to accommodate your family and luggage.
Renting a car at the Honolulu airport is the best option.
To get the best prices, we recommend regularly checking listed prices online. Some websites allow you to rebook at a lower rate without additional penalties—enabling you to get the best deals.
Check on Pre-existing Car Insurance
According to Department of Transportation statistics , Honolulu had at least 94 fatal crashes in 2021, up from 85 fatalities in 2020. Throughout the islands, Hawaii reported an average of 109 traffic fatalities and 432 serious injuries resulting from traffic accidents over the past five years—showcasing the importance of having car insurance to protect both drivers and pedestrians.
Most car rental companies offer temporary insurance as part of their services. But before you accept any terms on your trip, check if you have pre-existing car insurance. Some travel insurance may include coverage for personal vehicles. However, it may have some limitations regarding reimbursement of damage to another vehicle or medical care for other individuals involved in the accident. Check if a non-owners insurance policy is included, as this can provide traditional liability coverage for a rental car.
Another way you can get insurance is through your credit card. If you’re not an American citizen and hold a Gold Mastercard or Visa Premier credit card, your card can cover all property damage to the rental vehicle. Do note that there are still some exceptions, like accidents due to driving while intoxicated, so it’s critical that you review your terms and conditions before going on your trip.
Travel to Less Visited Locations
Honolulu is well known for having good public transportation, mainly through TheBus’ services. As  reported by the American Public Transportation Association , TheBus had a ridership of around 123,400 people per weekday as of the third quarter of 2022. While the system’s efficiency benefits locals, tourists may not want to spend the time and effort to hop on and off these public vehicles.
Get off the beaten path to explore less visited locations in Hawaii. Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash
Buses can sometimes take longer due to extra stops. Particularly during peak hours, getting on a public vehicle can be uncomfortably crowded or outright impossible. On the other hand, having a car rental not only ensures privacy and comfort, but you also have a complete say on your routes and travel. You can maximize your car usage by visiting less touristy locations, helping you avoid crowds and experience a different side of Oahu.
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When Visiting Honolulu
If you are visiting Honolulu soon, we hope the above article is useful. The island of Oahu is gorgeous, and the people welcoming. You will find that, when flying into Honolulu, you want to get out and explore the city and the rest of the beautiful island. A car rental in Honolulu is essential to see all the wonders awaiting you. When you’re ready to book your trip to Hawaii , we hope you use Wander With Wonder as your guide to the best things to see and do while you’re in the islands.
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Car Rental in Honolulu: 4 Helpful Tips
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