Car Rental Cost Calculator
Calculate total car rental cost including daily rate, airport surcharge, insurance, and fuel.
Get a full cost breakdown.
Car rental costs are often much higher than the advertised daily rate. Understanding each fee helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises at the counter.
Daily Rate is the base price shown in advertisements. It covers basic vehicle use and usually includes unlimited mileage (confirm before booking).
Airport Surcharge is an added fee for picking up a car at an airport location. Airport rentals are subject to concession fees, facility charges, and government taxes that can add 10–30% on top of the base rate. Picking up at an off-airport location (and taking a short taxi or shuttle) often saves money.
CDW Insurance (Collision Damage Waiver) is optional but widely recommended. It limits your financial liability if the car is damaged. Rental company CDW typically costs $10–$30 per day. However, many credit cards (especially travel or rewards cards) provide CDW coverage for free when you pay with that card — check before purchasing.
Fuel Charges — most rentals return the car with a full tank. The “full-to-full” option means you fill it yourself before returning, which is cheapest. Prepaying for fuel at the rental rate is usually more expensive.
Taxes are not included in this calculator since they vary widely by state, country, and city. Budget an additional 10–30% for taxes on top of the subtotal calculated here.
Tips for saving money on car rentals:
- Book early — prices rise as availability decreases.
- Avoid airport pickup surcharges by using off-airport locations.
- Check if your credit card includes CDW insurance before buying the rental company’s coverage.
- Decline optional add-ons you do not need (GPS, satellite radio, toll passes can all add $5–$15/day each).
- Return on time — late returns often trigger a full additional day charge.
- Compare prices across multiple booking platforms (Kayak, Priceline, the rental company directly).