Frequently Asked Questions About Car Rental in Fort Myers
Where is it cheaper to rent a car in Fort Myers - at the airport or downtown?
Airport car rental counters at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) are convenient but usually carry higher taxes and concession fees, so downtown and neighborhood branches are often slightly cheaper. If you are looking for truly cheap car hire Fort Myers, compare quotes from both airport and off-airport locations and look at the full price including all surcharges. Also factor in the cost of taking a taxi, rideshare, or shuttle to a downtown office when deciding where to pick up your car.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Fort Myers?
Most major car rental Fort Myers companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some vehicle categories may only be rented by drivers 25 and older. Renters aged 21–24 usually pay an additional “young driver” surcharge and may be restricted from renting luxury or specialty vehicles. Always check the age policy and required documents in your confirmation email before you arrive to pick up the car.
Do I need insurance when renting a car in Fort Myers?
Florida law requires that the rental vehicle be insured, but that doesn’t always mean you have to buy insurance from the rental desk when you rent a car Fort Myers. Many travelers already have coverage through their personal auto policy or a credit card that includes rental car insurance benefits. If you decline the rental company’s coverage, bring proof of your existing insurance and make sure you understand exactly what is and isn’t covered before you drive away.
Can I rent a car without a credit card in Fort Myers?
Some companies allow you to rent a car Fort Myers with a debit card, but policies vary widely between brands and locations. Debit card rentals often require a return flight itinerary, a credit check, or additional identification, and they may restrict certain car classes. Pure cash rentals are rare and usually limited to local customers with strong documentation, so it is best to confirm payment options with the specific branch before you book.
How can I find the best car rental deals in Fort Myers?
To find the best car hire deals Fort Myers, start by comparing prices from several rental brands and booking sites on the same dates and times. Adjust your pickup and drop-off times slightly, as avoiding peak hours or weekend start dates can sometimes lower the rate. Joining free loyalty programs, using discount codes, and booking economy or compact classes are also effective ways to secure cheap car hire Fort Myers without sacrificing reliability.
Is it cheaper to book a car rental in Fort Myers in advance?
In most cases it is cheaper to book your car rental Fort Myers in advance, especially during busy periods like winter season, holidays, and spring break. Early reservations give you more vehicle choices and allow you to lock in lower base rates before prices rise with demand. Some suppliers offer free cancellation on pay-later bookings, so you can reserve early and re-check rates closer to your travel date to keep the best possible deal.
Are there hidden fees for car rental in Fort Myers?
When you rent a car Fort Myers, potential extra costs can include airport concession fees, additional driver charges, young driver surcharges, and optional items like GPS units or toll transponders. You may also pay more for refueling if you return the car with less gas than required, or for returning late or to a different location. Carefully review the rental agreement, especially sections on mileage, fuel, and fees, so there are no surprises on your final bill.
What should I know about mileage and fuel policies when renting a car in Fort Myers?
Many car rental Fort Myers rates include unlimited mileage within Florida, but some promotional or specialty rentals may limit how far you can drive without extra charges. Fuel policies also differ: you might be asked to return the car full, pay in advance for a full tank, or be billed at a higher rate if the company refuels it for you. Always check the mileage and fuel rules before leaving the lot and keep your fuel receipts if you top off the tank near the return location.