Car Rentals in North America

North America is the third largest continent in the world, with population centers spaced widely across its distinct regions. Long-range travel is easiest through the continent's extensive network of major airport hubs, smaller regional airports, and North America car rentals. Across Canada and Greenland, the United States of America, Mexico, the seven smaller nations collectively known as Central America, and the several thousand islands that comprise the Caribbean, North America rent a car possibilities are widely available and accessible.

Although it is possible to utilize the extensive long-range bus service provided across most of the US and Canada, travel times are often three to five times longer than a direct trip using North America car rentals. When considering cost, safety, speed, and convenience, car travel is the preferred method to see this diverse continent, stretching from the snowy peaks of Alaska's Mount McKinley, to the arid deserts of California's Death Valley, to the tropical beaches of the Florida Keys.

Outside of Central America and the Caribbean, most travel in North America is by personal vehicle. The highways in Canada and the US are generally well maintained, with gas, food, and lodging located convenient to major travel routes. Most major North American rent a car agencies are available at both major and regional airports, as well as throughout suburban areas, and near major tourist attractions. Usually a major credit card, proof of liability insurance, and a valid driver's license are necessary in addition to an age requirement (either 18, 21, or 25). Some agencies offer short term insurance and additional supplemental coverage if you do not meet all of these conditions.

South of the US, Canada, and larger Mexican cities, poor roads and developing economies may not support the same network for car rentals. Be aware of the conditions of the areas where you will be traveling in order to prepare and plan accordingly. Like medical insurance, vehicle insurance issued in Canada or the US is generally valid throughout these two countries, but additional insurance may be required elsewhere in North America. Some rental car companies will permit you to drive your rental from the US to Canada and back, or from Canada to the US and back, but driving a rental across other North American borders is rarely permitted.