When you rent a car from Hertz, the base rental rate might look straightforward at first glance. However, once you start adding optional extras like GPS, child seats, toll devices, or other convenience features, the total cost can rise significantly.
Understanding Hertz’s GPS and add-on fees in detail can help you plan ahead, avoid unnecessary expenses, and get the most value out of your rental. This article provides a clear, detailed breakdown of Hertz’s GPS and additional equipment options, their pricing, and how to decide which ones are truly worth it for your trip.
Understanding Hertz’s Add-On Policy
Hertz provides a variety of add-ons designed to make your rental experience more convenient, safe, and personalized. Each add-on has its own daily or flat-rate fee, which is added to the base rental cost. These extras are optional, but they can be automatically included in some reservation types if you select them during booking or at the counter.
Typical Hertz add-ons include:
- GPS navigation devices
- Child and infant safety seats
- Toll payment devices
- Fuel purchase options
- Roadside assistance plans
- Wi-Fi hotspots and entertainment add-ons
- Additional drivers
- Insurance upgrades (LDW, SLI, etc.)
While these add-ons can enhance convenience, many travelers are surprised at how quickly they increase the rental total. Understanding how each add-on is priced and billed helps you decide which are essential and which you can skip or replace with your own solutions.
Hertz GPS Navigation System
One of the most common Hertz add-ons is the GPS navigation system, often branded as Hertz NeverLost. This optional system is designed to help travelers navigate easily without relying on smartphones or mobile data, especially in remote areas or foreign countries where roaming charges can be costly.
Here’s what you need to know about the GPS add-on:
- Daily Charge: The typical Hertz GPS rental fee ranges between $12 and $15 per day, though it can vary by location or vehicle type.
- Device Type: Most locations offer built-in GPS systems for premium cars or portable units mounted on the dashboard for economy rentals.
- Availability: GPS units are subject to availability, so it’s better to reserve one in advance if you need it.
- Return Policy: The device must be returned with the vehicle; missing or damaged units will result in a replacement charge that can exceed $200.
Pros of Renting Hertz GPS
The GPS system has a few distinct advantages:
- No Internet Needed: Hertz GPS units work offline, which means you won’t need mobile data or Wi-Fi access.
- Reliable Navigation: Many travelers prefer Hertz’s GPS when driving in areas with limited mobile coverage or in international destinations.
- Built-In Points of Interest: Hertz GPS systems come preloaded with points of interest, such as gas stations, hotels, landmarks, and restaurants.
- Voice Guidance: Turn-by-turn voice directions allow for safer, hands-free driving.
Cons of Renting Hertz GPS
However, there are some downsides:
- Cost: Paying $12–$15 per day adds up quickly for long rentals.
- Outdated Maps: Some customers have reported that Hertz GPS devices may not always have the most up-to-date maps.
- Alternative Options: Many smartphones now provide accurate navigation through apps like Google Maps or Waze for free.
How to Avoid High GPS Fees
If you’re trying to minimize your rental costs, there are several ways to avoid paying the GPS add-on fee:
- Use your smartphone’s navigation apps with offline maps downloaded in advance.
- Use built-in car systems (like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto) that allow you to connect your phone to the car’s infotainment screen.
- Bring your own portable GPS unit if you already own one.
However, for international travel or rural routes without cellular coverage, the Hertz GPS system may still be worth the cost for reliability and ease of use.
Other Common Hertz Add-On Fees
While GPS is one of the most popular Hertz add-ons, there are several others that can affect your total bill. Let’s explore these in detail.
1. Child Safety Seats
Hertz provides a range of child restraint options, including infant seats, toddler seats, and booster seats. These are mandatory for children under certain age and weight limits depending on the country or state.
- Typical Fee: Around $13 to $15 per day, with a maximum charge cap for long rentals.
- Installation: Parents are responsible for installing the seat correctly. Hertz staff may provide guidance but cannot install it for you due to liability rules.
- Missing/Damaged Seats: If the seat is not returned or is damaged, you may be charged for a replacement, which can exceed $200.
2. Toll Devices
Hertz offers toll devices like PlatePass or similar systems depending on the region. These devices allow you to drive through toll lanes without stopping to pay manually, as charges are automatically billed to your rental account.
- Daily Fee: Typically $5.95 per day, up to a maximum of about $30 per rental period.
- Additional Costs: Actual toll amounts are added to your bill separately.
- Alternative Option: In some regions, you can use your own toll tag (like EZ Pass or SunPass), but check Hertz’s policy before doing so.
3. Fuel Purchase Options
Fuel is another area where add-ons come into play. Hertz provides several fuel-related options:
- Prepaid Fuel Option: Pay for a full tank upfront at a competitive rate and return the car empty.
- Fuel Service Option: If you return the car with less fuel, Hertz refuels it for you at a premium rate per gallon.
- Self-Refuel Option: You fill up the tank yourself before returning the car to avoid fees.
The best option depends on your travel plans. Long-distance drivers may benefit from the prepaid option, while short-trip renters usually save by refueling themselves.
4. Roadside Assistance
Hertz offers optional roadside protection plans that go beyond the standard coverage. This add-on provides help in case of lockouts, flat tires, lost keys, or running out of fuel.
- Daily Fee: Typically $5–$10 per day.
- Coverage: Includes towing, jump-starts, flat tire assistance, and key replacement (depending on the plan).
- Optional: Some renters may already have roadside coverage through credit cards or auto clubs.
5. Wi-Fi and Entertainment Add-Ons
In select regions, Hertz offers portable Wi-Fi devices and entertainment options. These allow you to stay connected during your travels without relying on your phone’s data plan.
- Daily Fee: Around $10–$15 per day, depending on the device and data limits.
- Availability: Limited to certain locations and vehicle types.
6. Additional Driver Fees
Adding extra drivers can be convenient, especially for long trips. However, Hertz charges an additional daily fee for each extra driver unless they qualify for an exemption.
- Standard Fee: Around $13.50 per day per driver.
- Exemptions: Spouses or domestic partners may be added for free in some regions.
- Corporate Rentals: Company-authorized drivers are usually exempt from additional driver fees.
7. Insurance and Protection Plans
Insurance add-ons can dramatically affect your total cost. Hertz offers various coverage options such as:
- Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): Removes your financial responsibility for vehicle damage or theft.
- Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI): Covers third-party injury and property damage claims.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Provides medical coverage for injuries to the driver and passengers.
- Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): Protects your personal belongings in the car.
Each of these plans carries its own daily charge. The total can exceed $30 per day if you opt for full coverage. If your credit card or personal insurance already covers rentals, you can often decline these extras.
Estimating the Total Add-On Cost
Let’s consider a sample 5-day rental to see how add-ons can affect the total price:
- Base rental rate: $250
- GPS: $13/day = $65
- Child seat: $13/day = $65
- Toll device: $6/day = $30
- Additional driver: $13/day = $65
- Roadside assistance: $7/day = $35
Total: $510 (before taxes and fees). The add-ons alone nearly double the cost of the base rental. Understanding each fee in advance helps you decide which extras are truly necessary.
How to Manage or Avoid High Add-On Fees
To keep your costs manageable, here are a few effective strategies:
- Book Early: Prices for add-ons can vary, and some may be cheaper when pre-booked.
- Bring Your Own Equipment: Items like GPS units, child seats, or toll tags can often be brought from home.
- Check Credit Card Benefits: Some premium cards cover roadside assistance, insurance, or even GPS rental costs.
- Compare Packages: Some Hertz locations offer bundled deals that include multiple add-ons at a lower rate.
- Review the Contract: Always read your rental agreement before signing to ensure no add-ons were included without your consent.
Billing and Disputes for Add-On Charges
Hertz itemizes all add-ons on your rental agreement and final receipt. If you notice a discrepancy or an add-on you didn’t authorize, you can dispute the charge by contacting customer service within a set timeframe. Keep copies of your reservation confirmation, rental agreement, and return receipt as proof.
In some cases, misunderstandings occur when renters agree to an add-on verbally without realizing it incurs extra cost. Always verify the total before signing the rental agreement and again when returning the car.
Regional Differences in Add-On Pricing
Hertz add-on pricing can vary depending on your rental location. For example:
- Airport Locations: Usually charge slightly higher daily fees for add-ons due to concession and facility costs.
- International Rentals: GPS and insurance add-ons may be mandatory in some countries or carry different coverage terms.
- Local Branches: May offer promotions or discounts for specific add-ons during off-peak seasons.
When Add-Ons Are Worth It
Not all add-ons are unnecessary expenses. Some can genuinely improve your travel experience and even save you money in certain cases. For instance:
- GPS: Worth it for international or rural travel.
- Toll Device: Useful in high-toll regions like Florida, Texas, or California.
- Roadside Assistance: Peace of mind for long-distance or rural driving.
- Prepaid Fuel: Convenient for one-way trips where refueling isn’t possible before drop-off.
However, always balance convenience against total cost to determine whether an add-on makes sense for your specific situation.
Conclusion
Hertz’s GPS and add-on fee structure is designed to offer flexibility and convenience, but it can also significantly increase the total cost of your rental if you’re not careful.
The GPS system offers reliable navigation for those who prefer not to rely on mobile devices, but alternatives like smartphone apps or personal GPS units can save you money. Similarly, add-ons like toll devices, child seats, and roadside assistance are helpful but not always essential for every renter.
The key to getting the best deal is to plan ahead, compare costs, and only choose add-ons that genuinely add value to your trip. Always review your rental agreement carefully and confirm that you understand each fee before driving off the lot. With a little preparation and awareness, you can enjoy the convenience of Hertz’s add-ons without letting extra fees ruin your travel budget.
