Tourism in Hawaii is once again flourishing.
Although momentarily disrupted in 2020 and 2021, Hawaii’s tourism industry recovered immensely in 2022.
This trend is likely to continue in 2023: tourism spending in Hawaii rose by 18.5%, and the average trip length is up by 5.9%.
So, if you’re planning to visit, the Hawaiian island of Maui is the perfect destination.
It’s known for adventure and relaxation as it is less populated than Oahu, the capital of Hawaii.
Car rentals in Maui can provide one of the best ways to explore the second-largest island in the state.
Although there is a wide availability of taxis and shuttle services, having a car allows you a degree of flexibility when it comes to your travel schedule, so you can visit areas that may not always be accessible to tourists.
Cars also let you frequent scaled-down towns, shopping centers, and resort areas that Maui is famous for that public transport cannot reach.
Lastly, you can explore the Road to Hana, one of the most scenic routes in Hawaii.
To minimize risk and for you to stay safe when traveling around Maui, you must understand the process of renting a car in the area safely.
Here are four tips to avoid some common mishaps:
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Rent Your Car Early
Don’t fall into the trap of leaving your car rental reservation at the last minute.
Our post ‘How Safe Is Maui for Travel?’ suggests you reserve rental cars at least three to six months ahead of time.
With how many tourists are enthusiastic about visiting Maui, leaving your decision at the last minute can leave you with less-than-ideal rates or even no availability to speak of.
This may require you to use transport that you need to learn even more about, so be sure to confirm your rental early.
Know Which Roads You’re Allowed to Take
Each car rental has different restrictions on what roads you can take.
With how well-traveled the routes in Maui are, companies often specify which unpaved roads your contract will permit you to drive.
For instance, some segments of the Road to Hana are unpaved, but some car rentals exempt them from their restrictions.
Maximize safety by following these rules, as you will shoulder any damage incurred to your rental — and, in the worst-case scenario, those with you in the car.
Double-check Your Auto Insurance Policy
If you have an auto insurance policy already, then review your coverage.
The Balance explains that car rentals’ insurance coverage can add high costs to your original price.
However, you can choose not to avail of them.
If you already have collision, liability, or comprehensive coverage, you may be covered for mishaps like collisions, injuries, or other damages to your car.
However, if your coverage is lacking, you can still avail of a loss damage waiver that relieves you of any responsibility should your rental vehicle be stolen or damaged.
Be Vigilant about Extra Costs
Beyond the fee that you pay to rent a car, you will also need to be vigilant about extra fees, like gasoline, parking, damages, and one-way drop fees.
It’s best to minimize these costs in any way you can.
Considering that hotel parking can cost anywhere between $10 to over $50 a night, you should call hotels before booking to see whether they offer free parking or relatively lower prices.
Once you receive your car, conduct your own inspection of its exterior and be vigilant when you first drive it, so you can report anything that’s off and avoid being charged for damages caused by a previous user.
Be wary as well about the costs of fuel, as gas prices in Hawaii are the most expensive in the country.
Some gasoline stations offer better deals than others, and if you have a membership, then the same discounts apply in Hawaii.
Lastly, try to plan your itinerary so you can return your car to the same branch you rented it from — returning it to a different branch can cost as much as $85.
Visiting Maui is an extraordinary experience that can leave you with many good memories.
Maximizing safety with your car rentals allows you to have smooth adventures around the island.
Maui Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Maui Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
