{
  "$type": "site.standard.document",
  "content": {
    "$type": "org.wordpress.html",
    "html": "<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-custom-1-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><em>When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. <a href=\"https://witheachmile.com/privacy-policy#Affiliated-Link-Policy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See our Affiliate Policy</a>.</em></p>\n</div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Planning a road trip? You’ll probably end up asking the same question we did: should you rent a car or just drive your own? That&#8217;s why we built this Road Trip Cost Calculator (<a href=\"#road-trip-costs\">jump to it below!</a>) to compare the costs side-by-side.</p>\n\n\n\n<script type=\"application/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https://schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"WebApplication\",\n  \"name\": \"Road Trip Car Cost Calculator\",\n  \"url\": \"https://witheachmile.com/road-trip-renting-vs-drive-your-car-calculator/\",\n  \"applicationCategory\": \"TravelApplication\",\n  \"applicationSubCategory\": \"Cost Calculator\",\n  \"operatingSystem\": \"Web browser\",\n  \"browserRequirements\": \"Requires JavaScript\",\n  \"description\": \"An interactive calculator to compare the cost of renting a car versus driving your own on a road trip, factoring in mileage, fuel, wear-and-tear, and rental rates.\",\n  \"isAccessibleForFree\": true,\n  \"creator\": {\n    \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n    \"name\": \"With Each Mile\",\n    \"url\": \"https://witheachmile.com\"\n  }\n}\n</script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We’re gearing up for a cross-country road trip later this year! Over the past 37,000+ miles and four trips across the U.S, we’ve always driven our own cars instead of rentals. Our Subarus (we have a 2020 Legacy and a 2025 Forester) are comfortable, reliable and get good gas mileage.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And since we use them every day for work, we knowing exactly how much trunk space we have, which makes packing easier.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, the trade-off with driving our own cars across the country is that every mile adds wear and tear to our car. Any damage, maintenance and repairs are on us. So, we got curious what the cost difference would be between driving our own vs renting.</p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a547a1b9177c\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents</p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle</span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #000;color:#000\" xmlns=\"http://www.w3.org/2000/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"></path></svg><svg style=\"fill: #000;color:#000\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http://www.w3.org/2000/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"/></svg></span></span></label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a547a1b9177c\" checked /><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https://witheachmile.com/road-trip-renting-vs-drive-your-car-calculator/#should-i-rent-a-car-for-a-road-trip\" >Should I Rent a Car for a Road Trip?</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https://witheachmile.com/road-trip-renting-vs-drive-your-car-calculator/#how-to-use-our-calculator\" >How To Use Our Calculator</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https://witheachmile.com/road-trip-renting-vs-drive-your-car-calculator/#road-trip-car-cost-calculator\" >Road Trip Car Cost Calculator</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https://witheachmile.com/road-trip-renting-vs-drive-your-car-calculator/#compare-rental-car-options\" >Compare Rental Car Options</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https://witheachmile.com/road-trip-renting-vs-drive-your-car-calculator/#renting-a-car-vs-driving-your-own-pros-and-cons\" >Renting a Car vs Driving Your Own: Pros and Cons</a></li></ul></nav></div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"should-i-rent-a-car-for-a-road-trip\"></span>Should I Rent a Car for a Road Trip?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"></span></h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We read that renting a car can be more <a href=\"https://clark.com/travel/car-rental-vs-driving-own-road-trip/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cost-effective</a> than driving our own, which made us wonder if we should rent a car or just take our own again.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a547a1b80163&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a547a1b80163\" class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized has-custom-border wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"904\" title=\"Subaru Legacy Olympic National Park\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--pointerdown=\"actions.preloadImage\" data-wp-on--pointerenter=\"actions.preloadImageWithDelay\" data-wp-on--pointerleave=\"actions.cancelPreload\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Olympic-National-Park.webp\" alt=\"A silver Subaru Legacy is parked on the side of a gravel road of Obstruction Point Road, surrounded by towering pine trees in Olympic National Park. The scene captures the rugged beauty and alpine atmosphere of this high-elevation trail.\" class=\"wp-image-6172\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0rem;border-radius:1rem;width:350px\" srcset=\"https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Olympic-National-Park.webp 1200w, https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Olympic-National-Park-300x226.webp 300w, https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Olympic-National-Park-1024x771.webp 1024w, https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Olympic-National-Park-768x579.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" /><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-bind--aria-label=\"state.thisImage.triggerButtonAriaLabel\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.thisImage.buttonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.thisImage.buttonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http://www.w3.org/2000/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" />\n\t\t\t</svg>\n\t\t</button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Obstruction Point Road, Olympic National Park</figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We looked at a few different cost estimates, such as the <a href=\"https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/standard-mileage-rates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IRS’s Standard Mileage Rate</a> of $0.70 per mile, to see if renting would actually save us money on a cross-country road trip (turns out renting would save us a lot!). That rate factors in things like depreciation, wear and tear, maintenance, insurance, registration and more.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But that number didn’t quite fit with our real-world costs. We already pay for insurance and registration each year, and most of our road trip miles are on highways, where we get better fuel efficiency. Our go-to road trip car (a 2020 Subaru Legacy) gets up to 27 mpg in the city and 35 on the highway.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since none of the standard estimates felt quite right, I built my own calculator to compare the costs of driving our car (or a minivan or SUV, more on that later) versus renting.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a547a1b80b7e&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a547a1b80b7e\" class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized has-custom-border wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"904\" height=\"1200\" title=\"Subaru Legacy Badlands National Park\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--pointerdown=\"actions.preloadImage\" data-wp-on--pointerenter=\"actions.preloadImageWithDelay\" data-wp-on--pointerleave=\"actions.cancelPreload\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Badlands-National-Park.webp\" alt=\"A silver Subaru parked on a road in Badlands National Park, with rugged rock formations in the background under a pastel sky. Two small dogs sit inside the car, visible through the windshield, wearing colorful harnesses. The scene captures a road trip vibe in a stunning natural setting.\" class=\"wp-image-6173\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0rem;border-radius:1rem;width:350px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Badlands-National-Park.webp 904w, https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Badlands-National-Park-226x300.webp 226w, https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Badlands-National-Park-771x1024.webp 771w, https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Subaru-Legacy-Badlands-National-Park-768x1019.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 904px) 100vw, 904px\" /><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-bind--aria-label=\"state.thisImage.triggerButtonAriaLabel\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.thisImage.buttonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.thisImage.buttonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http://www.w3.org/2000/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" />\n\t\t\t</svg>\n\t\t</button></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I used data from <a href=\"https://www.aaa.com/autorepair/drivingcosts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AAA’s Driving Cost Calculator</a> and looked at the top five best-selling cars, minivans and SUVs in the U.S. from 2020 to 2026 to estimate depreciation and maintenance costs.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are the makes and models I used:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cars:</strong> Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord &amp; Civic, Nissan Sentra and Toyota Camry</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Minivans:</strong> Chrysler Pacifica &amp; Voyager, Kia Carnival, Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SUVs: </strong>Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota RAV4</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This gave me a good idea of the average costs for each type of vehicle. You can see the full breakdown for all the models in this <a href=\"https://witheachmile.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Average-Depreciation-Maintenance-Cost-per-Mile-With-Each-Mile.xlsx\">Excel spreadsheet</a>.</p>\n\n\n<script \n  async \n  data-jetpack-boost=\"ignore\" \n  data-uid=\"c85c076c19\" \n  src=\"https://witheachmile.kit.com/c85c076c19/index.js\">\n</script>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-to-use-our-calculator\"></span>How To Use Our Calculator<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"></span></h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Enter Your Trip Distance &amp; Average Gas Price:</strong> Enter how many miles you’ll be driving and the average gas price you think you&#8217;ll see on your trip.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Choose Your Vehicle Type:</strong> Choose the kind of vehicle you&#8217;ll be driving (car, minivan or SUV). Each option has a different per-mile cost based on AAA’s driving cost data.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check the Rental Car Price:</strong> Enter the final rental rate for the car (including all taxes and fees).</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enter Each Vehicle’s Highway MPG:</strong> Enter the highway miles per gallon (MPG) for each vehicle.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Click Compare Costs:</strong> Our calculator will compare the estimated cost of driving your own car (taking into account the average wear and tear) versus renting a car (including rental fees and fuel).</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These cost estimates come from our research and experience. Please do not consider this to be official financial advice. Every road trip is unique and different. So please run the numbers for yourself and find what works for you.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Anything you enter into this calculator stays on your computer. It&#8217;s all calculated in your browser, so your information remains private.</p>\n\n\n\n<style>\n  .road-trip-calculator-container {\n    font-family: 'WEM Sans', sans-serif;\n    margin: clamp(1.5rem, 4vw, 2.5rem) auto;\n    background: #ffffff;\n    padding: clamp(1.1rem, 2.5vw, 1.6rem);\n    border-radius: 1rem;\n    border: 1px solid #e5e9ef;\n    box-shadow: 0 8px 22px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.04);\n    max-width: 850px;\n    width: 100%;\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n    color: #1f2d3d;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container h2,\n  .road-trip-calculator-container h3 {\n    font-family: 'WEM Sans', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 1.5rem;\n    color: #1f2d3d;\n    font-weight: 600;\n    text-align: center;\n    margin: 0 0 1rem 0;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container h2 {\n    margin-bottom: 1.4rem;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .input-group {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: 1fr;\n    gap: 0.6rem;\n    margin-bottom: 0.9rem;\n    align-items: center;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .distance-gas-container {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;\n    gap: 0.75rem;\n    margin-bottom: 0.9rem;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .distance-gas-container .input-group {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: auto 1fr;\n    gap: 0.4rem;\n    align-items: center;\n    margin-bottom: 0;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container label {\n    font-weight: 500;\n    color: #4a5568;\n    font-size: 0.9rem;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container input,\n  .road-trip-calculator-container select {\n    padding: 0.65rem 0.75rem;\n    border: 1px solid #cfd6df;\n    border-radius: 1rem;\n    font-size: 0.9rem;\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n    width: 100%;\n    background-color: #ffffff;\n    transition: border-color 0.25s ease, box-shadow 0.25s ease;\n    font-family: 'WEM Sans', sans-serif;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container select { width: auto; }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container input:hover,\n  .road-trip-calculator-container select:hover {\n    border-color: #b8c2cc;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container input:focus,\n  .road-trip-calculator-container select:focus {\n    border-color: #0b3a80;\n    box-shadow: 0 0 0 3px rgba(11, 58, 128, 0.1);\n    outline: none;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .comparison-container {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: 1fr;\n    gap: 1rem;\n    margin-top: 1rem;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .comparison-column {\n    padding: clamp(0.9rem, 2vw, 1.25rem);\n    background: #f6f8fb;\n    border-radius: 1rem;\n    border: 1px solid #e3e8ef;\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .button-container {\n    text-align: center;\n    margin-top: 1.25rem;\n    margin-bottom: 1.25rem;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container button {\n    background-color: #0b3a80;\n    color: #ffffff;\n    border: none;\n    padding: 0.7rem 1.4rem;\n    border-radius: 1rem;\n    font-size: 0.95rem;\n    transition: transform 0.15s ease, box-shadow 0.15s ease, background-color 0.2s ease;\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n    cursor: pointer;\n    font-weight: 500;\n    font-family: 'WEM Sans', sans-serif;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container button:hover {\n    background-color: #092f66;\n    transform: translateY(-1px);\n    box-shadow: 0 6px 14px rgba(11, 58, 128, 0.18);\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container button.reset { background: #6b7280; }\n  .road-trip-calculator-container button.reset:hover { background: #4b5563; }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container #results:empty { display: none; }\n  .road-trip-calculator-container #results:not(:empty) {\n    margin-top: 1rem;\n    text-align: left;\n    font-size: 1.05rem;\n    line-height: 1.6;\n    padding: clamp(1rem, 2vw, 1.25rem);\n    background: #f6f9fc;\n    border-radius: 1rem;\n    border: 1px solid #e2e8f0;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container #results p {\n    margin: 0.2rem 0;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .output-data-wrapper {\n    margin-top: 1rem;\n    display: none;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container canvas {\n    margin-top: 1.25rem;\n    margin-bottom: 1rem;\n    max-width: 100%;\n    height: auto;\n    display: none;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container canvas.visible { display: block; }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .error-message {\n    color: #d64545;\n    font-size: 0.85rem;\n    margin-top: 0.35rem;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .disclaimer {\n    margin-top: 1rem;\n    font-size: 0.85rem;\n    text-align: center;\n    color: #6b7280;\n    line-height: 1.4;\n    border-top: 1px solid #e5e7eb;\n    padding-top: 0.75rem;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container .disclaimer p { margin: 0; }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container details {\n    margin-top: 1.25rem;\n    padding-top: 0.85rem;\n    border-top: 1px solid #e5e7eb;\n    text-align: left;\n  }\n\n  .road-trip-calculator-container summary {\n    font-weight: 600;\n    color: #4b5563;\n    cursor: pointer;\n    font-size: 0.95rem;\n    outline: none;\n  }\n  \n  .road-trip-calculator-container summary:hover {\n    color: #1f2d3d;\n  }\n\n  @media (min-width: 600px) {\n    .road-trip-calculator-container .comparison-container { grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; }\n  }\n\n  @media (max-width: 600px) {\n     .road-trip-calculator-container { padding: 1rem; }\n    .road-trip-calculator-container .distance-gas-container { display: block; }\n    .road-trip-calculator-container .input-group { grid-template-columns: 1fr; margin-bottom: 0.9rem; }\n  }\n</style>\n\n<div class=\"road-trip-calculator-container\">\n\n  <form id=\"road-trip-form\">\n\n    <h2 id=\"road-trip-costs\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"road-trip-car-cost-calculator\"></span>Road Trip Car Cost Calculator<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"></span></h2>\n\n    <div class=\"distance-gas-container\">\n      <div class=\"input-group\">\n        <label for=\"distance\">Trip Distance (miles)</label>\n        <input type=\"number\" id=\"distance\" name=\"distance\" inputmode=\"decimal\" min=\"1\" required=\"\" autocomplete=\"off\" aria-describedby=\"distance-error\">\n        <div id=\"distance-error\" class=\"error-message\"></div>\n      </div>\n\n      <div class=\"input-group\">\n        <label for=\"gas-price\">Gas Price per Gallon ($)</label>\n        <input type=\"number\" id=\"gas-price\" name=\"gas-price\" inputmode=\"decimal\" min=\"0.01\" step=\"0.01\" required=\"\" autocomplete=\"off\" aria-describedby=\"gas-price-error\">\n        <div id=\"gas-price-error\" class=\"error-message\"></div>\n      </div>\n    </div>\n\n    <div class=\"comparison-container\">\n      <div class=\"comparison-column\">\n        <h3>Your Car</h3>\n\n        <div class=\"input-group\">\n          <label for=\"mpg-own\">Your Car&#8217;s Highway MPG</label>\n          <input type=\"number\" id=\"mpg-own\" name=\"mpg-own\" inputmode=\"decimal\" min=\"1\" required=\"\" autocomplete=\"off\" aria-describedby=\"mpg-own-error\">\n          <div id=\"mpg-own-error\" class=\"error-message\"></div>\n        </div>\n\n        <div class=\"input-group\">\n          <label for=\"depreciation-type\">Vehicle Type (estimated cost per mile)</label>\n          <select id=\"depreciation-type\" name=\"depreciation-type\">\n            <option value=\"0.34\">Car (≈ $0.34/mile)</option>\n            <option value=\"0.38\">SUV (≈ $0.38/mile)</option>\n            <option value=\"0.45\">Minivan (≈ $0.45/mile)</option>\n          </select>\n        </div>\n      </div>\n\n      <div class=\"comparison-column\">\n        <h3>Rental Car</h3>\n\n        <div class=\"input-group\">\n          <label for=\"mpg-rental\">Rental Car Highway MPG</label>\n          <input type=\"number\" id=\"mpg-rental\" name=\"mpg-rental\" inputmode=\"decimal\" min=\"1\" required=\"\" autocomplete=\"off\" aria-describedby=\"mpg-rental-error\">\n          <div id=\"mpg-rental-error\" class=\"error-message\"></div>\n        </div>\n\n        <div class=\"input-group\">\n          <label for=\"rental-cost\">Total Rental Cost ($)</label>\n          <input type=\"number\" id=\"rental-cost\" name=\"rental-cost\" inputmode=\"decimal\" min=\"0\" step=\"0.01\" required=\"\" autocomplete=\"off\" aria-describedby=\"rental-cost-error\">\n          <div id=\"rental-cost-error\" class=\"error-message\"></div>\n        </div>\n      </div>\n    </div>\n\n    <div class=\"button-container\">\n      <button type=\"submit\" aria-label=\"Compare road trip costs\">Compare Costs</button>\n      <button type=\"button\" class=\"reset\" id=\"reset-button\">Reset</button>\n    </div>\n\n  </form>\n\n  <div class=\"output-data-wrapper\" id=\"output-wrapper\">\n    <div id=\"results\"></div>\n    \n    <div id=\"cta-container\" style=\"text-align: center; margin: 1.25rem 0;\"></div>\n\n    <div id=\"methodology-container\"></div>\n  </div>\n\n  <div class=\"disclaimer\">\n    <p><em>Note: Costs are estimates meant to serve as a general guide.</em></p>\n  </div>\n\n</div>\n\n<script>\n  let chart = null;\n  let chartScriptLoaded = false;\n\n  // Dynamically load Chart.js only when needed to solve the race condition safely\n  function loadChartScript(callback) {\n    if (typeof Chart !== 'undefined') {\n      callback();\n      return;\n    }\n    if (chartScriptLoaded) {\n      setTimeout(() => loadChartScript(callback), 200);\n      return;\n    }\n    chartScriptLoaded = true;\n    const script = document.createElement('script');\n    script.src = \"https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/npm/chart.js\";\n    script.onload = callback;\n    document.head.appendChild(script);\n  }\n\n  function validateInputs() {\n    let isValid = true;\n\n    document.querySelectorAll('.error-message').forEach(e => e.textContent = '');\n    document.querySelectorAll('input, select').forEach(e => e.classList.remove('invalid'));\n\n    if (!document.getElementById('distance').value || parseFloat(document.getElementById('distance').value) <= 0) {\n      document.getElementById('distance-error').textContent = 'Please enter a valid distance.';\n      document.getElementById('distance').classList.add('invalid');\n      isValid = false;\n    }\n\n    if (!document.getElementById('gas-price').value || parseFloat(document.getElementById('gas-price').value) <= 0) {\n      document.getElementById('gas-price-error').textContent = 'Please enter a valid gas price.';\n      document.getElementById('gas-price').classList.add('invalid');\n      isValid = false;\n    }\n\n    if (!document.getElementById('mpg-own').value || parseFloat(document.getElementById('mpg-own').value) <= 0) {\n      document.getElementById('mpg-own-error').textContent = 'Please enter your car\\u2019s MPG.';\n      document.getElementById('mpg-own').classList.add('invalid');\n      isValid = false;\n    }\n\n    if (!document.getElementById('mpg-rental').value || parseFloat(document.getElementById('mpg-rental').value) <= 0) {\n      document.getElementById('mpg-rental-error').textContent = 'Please enter rental car MPG.';\n      document.getElementById('mpg-rental').classList.add('invalid');\n      isValid = false;\n    }\n\n    const rentalCostValue = document.getElementById('rental-cost').value;\n    if (rentalCostValue === '' || parseFloat(rentalCostValue) < 0) {\n      document.getElementById('rental-cost-error').textContent = 'Please enter the rental cost.';\n      document.getElementById('rental-cost').classList.add('invalid');\n      isValid = false;\n    }\n\n    return isValid;\n  }\n\n  function calculateCosts() {\n    if (!validateInputs()) {\n      return;\n    }\n\n    // FIX 2: Safely destroy any active chart instance before rewriting innerHTML\n    if (chart) {\n      chart.destroy();\n      chart = null;\n    }\n\n    let distance = parseFloat(document.getElementById('distance').value);\n    let gasPrice = parseFloat(document.getElementById('gas-price').value);\n    let mpgOwn = parseFloat(document.getElementById('mpg-own').value);\n    let mpgRental = parseFloat(document.getElementById('mpg-rental').value);\n    let rentalCost = parseFloat(document.getElementById('rental-cost').value);\n    let depreciationRate = parseFloat(document.getElementById('depreciation-type').value);\n\n    let ownCost = ((distance / mpgOwn) * gasPrice) + (distance * depreciationRate);\n    let rentalCarCost = ((distance / mpgRental) * gasPrice) + rentalCost;\n    let absoluteSavings = Math.abs(ownCost - rentalCarCost);\n\n    const formattedOwnCost = ownCost.toLocaleString('en-US', { minimumFractionDigits: 2, maximumFractionDigits: 2 });\n    const formattedRentalCarCost = rentalCarCost.toLocaleString('en-US', { minimumFractionDigits: 2, maximumFractionDigits: 2 });\n    const formattedSavings = absoluteSavings.toLocaleString('en-US', { minimumFractionDigits: 2, maximumFractionDigits: 2 });\n    const formattedDistance = distance.toLocaleString('en-US');\n\n    let alternativeLabel = rentalCarCost < ownCost ? \"driving your own car\" : \"renting\";\n\n    const gasSavings = ((distance / mpgOwn) * gasPrice) - ((distance / mpgRental) * gasPrice);\n    const totalWearTear = distance * depreciationRate;\n\n    const costPerMileOwn = (gasPrice / mpgOwn) + depreciationRate;\n    const costPerMileRental = gasPrice / mpgRental;\n    const netCostPerMileDiff = costPerMileOwn - costPerMileRental;\n    \n    let breakEvenText = 'N/A';\n    if (netCostPerMileDiff > 0) {\n      const breakEvenMiles = Math.round(rentalCost / netCostPerMileDiff);\n      breakEvenText = `${breakEvenMiles.toLocaleString('en-US')} miles`;\n    }\n\n    let isRentalCheaper = rentalCarCost < ownCost;\n    \n    // Smooth conditional styling for tie-breaker status headers\n    let winHeader = '';\n    if (absoluteSavings < 0.01) {\n      winHeader = `Both options have the exact same estimated cost!`;\n    } else {\n      winHeader = isRentalCheaper ? `&#10003; Renting can save you $${formattedSavings}` : `&#10003; Driving your car can save you $${formattedSavings}`;\n    }\n    \n    let highlightColor = absoluteSavings === 0 ? \"#4b5563\" : (isRentalCheaper ? \"#15803d\" : \"#0b3a80\");\n    \n    let ownRowStyle = (!isRentalCheaper || absoluteSavings === 0) ? \"font-weight: 600; color: #111827;\" : \"color: #4b5563;\";\n    let rentalRowStyle = (isRentalCheaper || absoluteSavings === 0) ? \"font-weight: 600; color: #111827;\" : \"color: #4b5563;\";\n\n    // Output Result Block\n    document.getElementById('results').innerHTML = `\n      <div style=\"margin-bottom: 0.75rem;\">\n        <h3 style=\"font-size: 1.35rem; font-weight: 700; color: ${highlightColor}; margin: 0 0 0.75rem 0; text-align: center;\">${winHeader}</h3>\n        \n        <div style=\"display: grid; grid-template-columns: auto auto; gap: 0.35rem 1.5rem; justify-content: center; font-size: 1.05rem;\">\n          <div style=\"${ownRowStyle}\">Your car:</div>\n          <div style=\"text-align: right; ${ownRowStyle}\">$${formattedOwnCost}</div>\n          \n          <div style=\"${rentalRowStyle}\">Rental car:</div>\n          <div style=\"text-align: right; ${rentalRowStyle}\">$${formattedRentalCarCost}</div>\n        </div>\n      </div>\n\n      <div style=\"margin: 0.75rem 0; font-size: 0.95rem; border-top: 1px dashed #e5e7eb; padding-top: 0.5rem;\">\n        <ul style=\"margin: 0; padding-left: 1.25rem; color: #4b5563; line-height: 1.5;\">\n          ${absoluteSavings > 0 ? `<li>You can save <strong>$${formattedSavings}</strong> compared with ${alternativeLabel}.</li>` : `<li>Both options have the same estimated cost.</li>`}\n          ${netCostPerMileDiff > 0 ? `<li>Rental may become cheaper after approximately: <strong>${breakEvenText}</strong></li>` : ''}\n          <li>Estimated cost of depreciation & maintenance: <strong>$${totalWearTear.toLocaleString('en-US', {maximumFractionDigits:0})}</strong></li>\n        </ul>\n      </div>\n    `;\n\n    // Adaptive Affiliate CTA wording\n    let ctaButton = document.getElementById('cta-container');\n    let ctaBgColor = isRentalCheaper ? \"#0b3a80\" : \"#4b5563\";\n    let ctaText = isRentalCheaper ? \"Compare Rental Cars for Your Trip &rarr;\" : \"Check Rental Options Anyway &rarr;\";\n    \n    ctaButton.innerHTML = `\n      <a href=\"https://expedia.tp.st/KnWrK2xb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" aria-label=\"Compare rental car prices for your trip\" \n         style=\"display: inline-block; background: ${ctaBgColor}; color: #fff; padding: 0.85rem 1.75rem; border-radius: 999px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: 600; font-size: 1rem; transition: background 0.2s; box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(11, 58, 128, 0.15);\">\n          ${ctaText}\n      </a>\n    `;\n\n    // Methodology Dropdown (Disclaimer wrapper string removed from here)\n    document.getElementById('methodology-container').innerHTML = `\n      <details id=\"details-dropdown\">\n        <summary>See chart & how these estimates were calculated</summary>\n        <div style=\"padding-top: 0.75rem; font-size: 0.9rem; color: #4b5563; line-height: 1.5;\">\n          \n          <div style=\"margin-bottom: 1.25rem;\">\n            <canvas id=\"costComparisonChart\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Cost comparison chart showing estimated expenses for your car versus a rental car over distance.\"></canvas>\n          </div>\n\n          <p style=\"margin-bottom: 0.5rem;\"><strong>Vehicle Ownership Costs:</strong> Driving your own vehicle adds hidden costs beyond gas. We use an estimated mileage rate (based on average vehicle data) to calculate long-term depreciation, routine maintenance, tires, oil changes and expected repairs.</p>\n          ${gasSavings !== 0 ? `<p style=\"margin-bottom: 0.5rem;\"><strong>Fuel Comparison:</strong> ${gasSavings > 0 ? `The rental car's higher MPG saves you an estimated $${Math.abs(gasSavings).toLocaleString('en-US', {maximumFractionDigits:0})} in gas.` : `Your personal car's higher MPG saves you an estimated $${Math.abs(gasSavings).toLocaleString('en-US', {maximumFractionDigits:0})} in gas.`}</p>` : ''}\n          <p><strong>The Breakdown:</strong> Shorter trips usually favor driving your own vehicle because it skips upfront rental fees. Longer trips add more depreciation, maintenance and tire wear, which can eventually outweigh the upfront cost of renting.</p>\n        </div>\n      </details>\n    `;\n\n    document.getElementById('output-wrapper').style.display = 'block';\n\n    let numPoints = Math.max(2, Math.min(Math.ceil(distance / 5), 50));\n    let ownData = [];\n    let rentalData = [];\n\n    for (let i = 0; i <= numPoints; i++) {\n      let pointDistance = (distance / numPoints) * i;\n      ownData.push(((pointDistance / mpgOwn) * gasPrice) + (pointDistance * depreciationRate));\n      rentalData.push(((pointDistance / mpgRental) * gasPrice) + rentalCost);\n    }\n\n    // Accordion Interaction\n    document.getElementById('details-dropdown').addEventListener('toggle', function() {\n      if (this.open) {\n        loadChartScript(() => {\n          if (chart) return; \n\n          let chartAltText = isRentalCheaper \n            ? `Cost comparison chart for a ${formattedDistance} mile trip. Renting saves $${formattedSavings}. `\n            : `Cost comparison chart for a ${formattedDistance} mile trip. Your car costs $${formattedOwnCost}, while a rental car costs $${formattedRentalCarCost}. `;\n          chartAltText += \"The blue line represents your car's cost and the red line represents the rental car's cost over distance.\";\n\n          const canvasCtx = document.getElementById('costComparisonChart');\n          canvasCtx.setAttribute('aria-label', chartAltText);\n          canvasCtx.classList.add('visible');\n\n          chart = new Chart(canvasCtx, {\n            type: 'line',\n            data: {\n              labels: Array.from(\n                { length: numPoints + 1 },\n                (_, i) => Math.round((distance / numPoints) * i).toLocaleString('en-US')\n              ),\n              datasets: [\n                {\n                  label: 'Your Car',\n                  data: ownData,\n                  borderColor: 'blue',\n                  backgroundColor: 'rgba(0, 123, 255, 0.1)',\n                  fill: true,\n                  tension: 0.4\n                },\n                {\n                  label: 'Rental Car',\n                  data: rentalData,\n                  borderColor: 'red',\n                  backgroundColor: 'rgba(255, 99, 132, 0.1)',\n                  fill: true,\n                  tension: 0.4\n                }\n              ]\n            },\n            options: {\n              responsive: true,\n              scales: {\n                x: {\n                  title: { display: true, text: 'Distance (miles)' }\n                },\n                y: {\n                  title: { display: true, text: 'Estimated Cost ($)' },\n                  ticks: {\n                    callback: function(value) {\n                      return '$' + value.toLocaleString('en-US');\n                    }\n                  }\n                }\n              }\n            }\n          });\n        });\n      }\n    });\n  }\n\n  // Rest of code remains intact\n  function resetCalculator() {\n    if (chart) {\n      chart.destroy();\n      chart = null;\n    }\n\n    document.querySelectorAll('input, select').forEach(e => e.value = '');\n    document.querySelectorAll('.error-message').forEach(e => e.textContent = '');\n    document.querySelectorAll('input, select').forEach(e => e.classList.remove('invalid'));\n    \n    document.getElementById('depreciation-type').value = '0.34';\n    document.getElementById('results').innerHTML = '';\n    document.getElementById('cta-container').innerHTML = '';\n    document.getElementById('methodology-container').innerHTML = '';\n    document.getElementById('output-wrapper').style.display = 'none';\n  }\n\n  document.getElementById('road-trip-form').addEventListener('submit', function(e) {\n    e.preventDefault();\n    calculateCosts();\n  });\n\n  document.getElementById('reset-button').addEventListener('click', resetCalculator);\n</script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"compare-rental-car-options\"></span>Compare Rental Car Options<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"></span></h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are a lot of options if renting is a better deal. Major rental car companies like Budget, Enterprise and Hertz have many different size options (often with unlimited mileage), so you can find one that fits your trip.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Not sure where to start looking?</strong> Try comparing rates on <a href=\"https://booking.tp.st/2Ti9r6Vv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Booking.com</a> or <a href=\"https://expedia.tp.st/KnWrK2xb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Expedia</a>. If you have a membership through <a href=\"https://www.costcotravel.com/Rental-Cars\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Costco</a> or <a href=\"https://serviceshub.samsclub.com/rentalcars\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Sam’s Club</a>, you might even find better prices there.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I was surprised that booking in advance doesn’t always get you the best price.</strong> NerdWallet found rental car rates are often <a href=\"https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/car-rental-pricing-statistics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">cheapest last-minute</span></a>. Even if you think you have an awesome price, it’s probably worth checking again closer to your trip.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We used our calculator for our upcoming 5,000+ mile cross-country road trip, and it looks like we could save up around $1,000 just by renting. Try it for yourself!</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"border-top-right-radius:1rem;border-bottom-right-radius:1rem;border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast-2);border-left-width:0.25rem;background-color:#f9f9f9;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">💳 <strong>Check Your Credit Card Perks</strong>: Some cards cover rental car insurance when you use them to pay. Check your cards terms before buying extra coverage.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"renting-a-car-vs-driving-your-own-pros-and-cons\"></span>Renting a Car vs Driving Your Own: Pros and Cons<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"></span></h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-background has-border-color has-fixed-layout\" style=\"background-color:#fffefe;border-color:#000000;border-width:0.01rem\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Road Trip Factor</th><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Drive Your Own Car</th><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Rent a Car</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Upfront Cost</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">No rental fee</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Rental rates can be expensive depending on time &amp; location</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Fuel Efficiency</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">You already know your real-world MPG</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">May get better MPG depending on vehicle</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Wear &amp; Tear</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Adds miles, depreciation, maintenance</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">No long-term impact on your vehicle</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Repairs</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Any breakdown or repair is on you</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Mechanical issues typically handled by rental company</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Insurance</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Already insured</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">May need to purchase coverage unless your card includes it</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Comfort &amp; Familiarity</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">You know how it drive and fits your luggage</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">New vehicle (could be better or worse)</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Vehicle Size Options</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Limited to what you own</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Can choose SUV, minivan or fuel-efficient car</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Mileage Limits</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Unlimited (it&#8217;s your car)</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Most major companies offer unlimited mileage, but confirm</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Long Cross-Country Trips</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Major mileage hit</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Often makes more financial sense</td></tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Spontaneous Trips</strong></td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Easy to get in and go!</td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Requires booking &amp; pickup</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We love road tripping with our own vehicles, but we also love reducing the costs of our these trips (we are exploring the option of tent camping to reduce hotel / Airbnb costs, too). </p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you’re planning a road trip and deciding between renting or driving your car, hopefully our tool makes it easier to figure out what works best for you.</p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Happy and safe travels!</p>"
  },
  "coverImage": {
    "$type": "blob",
    "ref": {
      "$link": "bafkreid3z3rg7vuhkhrs4d27arix7yy5xw4zjc2rbyqfhdpqm2woacpaoe"
    },
    "mimeType": "image/webp",
    "size": 203580
  },
  "description": "Trying to decide whether to rent a car or drive your own for a road trip? Use our free calculator to find the cheapest option and plan smarter.",
  "path": "/road-trip-renting-vs-drive-your-car-calculator/",
  "publishedAt": "2025-03-27T03:31:16.000Z",
  "site": "at://did:plc:xoczgo53ahhoei6pror2b43g/site.standard.publication/3mmwwrtzqnc7k",
  "tags": [
    "Road Trips",
    "United States",
    "Travel Tips"
  ],
  "textContent": "When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. See our Affiliate Policy. Planning a road trip? You’ll probably end up asking the same question we did: should you rent a car or just drive your own? That’s why we built this Road Trip Cost Calculator (jump to it below!) to compare the costs side-by-side. We’re gearing up for a cross-country road trip later this year! Over the past 37,000+ miles and four trips across the U.S, we’ve always driven our own cars instead of rentals. Our Subarus (we have a 2020 Legacy and a 2025 Forester) are comfortable, reliable and get good gas mileage. And since we use them every day for work, we knowing exactly how much trunk space we have, which makes packing easier. However, the trade-off with driving our own cars across the country is that every mile adds wear and tear to our car. Any damage, maintenance and repairs are on us. So, we got curious what the cost difference would be between driving our own vs renting. Should I Rent a Car for a Road Trip? We read that renting a car can be more cost-effective than driving our own, which made us wonder if we should rent a car or just take our own again. Obstruction Point Road, Olympic National Park We looked at a few different cost estimates, such as the IRS’s Standard Mileage Rate of $0.70 per mile, to see if renting would actually save us money on a cross-country road trip (turns out renting would save us a lot!). That rate factors in things like depreciation, wear and tear, maintenance, insurance, registration and more. But that number didn’t quite fit with our real-world costs. We already pay for insurance and registration each year, and most of our road trip miles are on highways, where we get better fuel efficiency. Our go-to road trip car (a 2020 Subaru Legacy) gets up to 27 mpg in the city and 35 on the highway. Since none of the standard estimates felt quite right, I built my own calculator to compare the costs of driving our car (or a minivan or SUV, more on that later) versus renting. I used data from AAA’s Driving Cost Calculator and looked at the top five best-selling cars, minivans and SUVs in the U.S. from 2020 to 2026 to estimate depreciation and maintenance costs. These are the makes and models I used: Cars: Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord & Civic, Nissan Sentra and Toyota Camry Minivans: Chrysler Pacifica & Voyager, Kia Carnival, Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna SUVs: Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota RAV4 This gave me a good idea of the average costs for each type of vehicle. You can see the full breakdown for all the models in this Excel spreadsheet. How To Use Our Calculator Enter Your Trip Distance & Average Gas Price: Enter how many miles you’ll be driving and the average gas price you think you’ll see on your trip. Choose Your Vehicle Type: Choose the kind of vehicle you’ll be driving (car, minivan or SUV). Each option has a different per-mile cost based on AAA’s driving cost data. Check the Rental Car Price: Enter the final rental rate for the car (including all taxes and fees). Enter Each Vehicle’s Highway MPG: Enter the highway miles per gallon (MPG) for each vehicle. Click Compare Costs: Our calculator will compare the estimated cost of driving your own car (taking into account the average wear and tear) versus renting a car (including rental fees and fuel). These cost estimates come from our research and experience. Please do not consider this to be official financial advice. Every road trip is unique and different. So please run the numbers for yourself and find what works for you. Anything you enter into this calculator stays on your computer. It’s all calculated in your browser, so your information remains private. Road Trip Car Cost Calculator Trip Distance (miles) Gas Price per Gallon ($) Your Car Your Car’s Highway MPG Vehicle Type (estimated cost per mile) Car (≈ $0.34/mile) SUV (≈ $0.38/mile) Minivan (≈ $0.45/mile) Rental Car Rental Car Highway MPG Total Rental Cost ($) Compare Costs Reset Note: Costs are estimates meant to serve as a general guide. Compare Rental Car Options There are a lot of options if renting is a better deal. Major rental car companies like Budget, Enterprise and Hertz have many different size options (often with unlimited mileage), so you can find one that fits your trip. Not sure where to start looking? Try comparing rates on Booking.com or Expedia. If you have a membership through Costco or Sam’s Club, you might even find better prices there. I was surprised that booking in advance doesn’t always get you the best price. NerdWallet found rental car rates are often cheapest last-minute. Even if you think you have an awesome price, it’s probably worth checking again closer to your trip. We used our calculator for our upcoming 5,000+ mile cross-country road trip, and it looks like we could save up around $1,000 just by renting. Try it for yourself! 💳 Check Your Credit Card Perks: Some cards cover rental car insurance when you use them to pay. Check your cards terms before buying extra coverage. Renting a Car vs Driving Your Own: Pros and Cons Road Trip FactorDrive Your Own CarRent a CarUpfront CostNo rental feeRental rates can be expensive depending on time & locationFuel EfficiencyYou already know your real-world MPGMay get better MPG depending on vehicleWear & TearAdds miles, depreciation, maintenanceNo long-term impact on your vehicleRepairsAny breakdown or repair is on youMechanical issues typically handled by rental companyInsuranceAlready insuredMay need to purchase coverage unless your card includes itComfort & FamiliarityYou know how it drive and fits your luggageNew vehicle (could be better or worse)Vehicle Size OptionsLimited to what you ownCan choose SUV, minivan or fuel-efficient carMileage LimitsUnlimited (it’s your car)Most major companies offer unlimited mileage, but confirmLong Cross-Country TripsMajor mileage hitOften makes more financial senseSpontaneous TripsEasy to get in and go!Requires booking & pickup We love road tripping with our own vehicles, but we also love reducing the costs of our these trips (we are exploring the option of tent camping to reduce hotel / Airbnb costs, too). If you’re planning a road trip and deciding between renting or driving your car, hopefully our tool makes it easier to figure out what works best for you. Happy and safe travels!",
  "title": "Rent vs Drive Your Car for a Road Trip: Use Our Cost Calculator",
  "updatedAt": "2026-07-13T04:25:41.000Z"
}