Challenges faced when renting cars using debit cards

Furthermore, Enterprise's non-airport locations require renters' addresses to match their current home address as shown on their driver's licenses. Renters must also present utility bills or other documents like cellular phone bills or paychecks, dated within 30 days and matching their home address.

The process can become cumbersome if these policies are not known beforehand, leading to potential inconveniences during trips. Additionally, some companies conduct credit checks or require proof of return tickets at airport locations.

Restrictions based on age, location, and car type further complicate matters for debit card users. Some companies have increased the minimum age for renting with a debit card to 25 years old.

Tanner highlights advantages of using credit cards instead. They often provide better protection against theft or damage and offer perks such as higher coverage amounts compared to those offered by rental companies. Credit cards typically offer secondary insurance coverage which activates after primary insurance has been applied.

Certain credit cards offer additional benefits at specific rental companies. For instance, The Platinum Card® from American Express provides National Emerald Club Executive status among others when enrolled in select benefits.

Recommended travel rewards cards providing primary car rental insurance include Chase Sapphire Reserve®, Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, among others. Cards offering secondary insurance include Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Amex Platinum.

While it is possible to rent with a debit card, Tanner recommends opting for credit cards to gain benefits like bonus points and miles while ensuring adequate insurance coverage during rentals.

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