Mileage in car rental can vary depending on the rental company's policy and the type of rate booked. In general, there are two main models:
Unlimited mileage
The customer can drive freely, with no mileage limit.
It is the most convenient option for those planning to travel long distances.
Usually, the daily rate is slightly higher, as this flexibility is already included.
Limited mileage
The rental company sets a mileage limit per day or for the entire rental period (e.g., 100 km per day).
If the customer exceeds this limit, an additional charge is applied per extra kilometer. This amount is defined by the rental company.
Generally, the daily rate may be cheaper, but it may not be cost-effective for long trips.
Note: In the Americas, most rental companies offer unlimited mileage, while in other destinations—especially in Europe—some apply limited mileage, making it important to check before booking.
When does limited mileage apply?
Monthly rentals: usually always include limited mileage.
Short-term rentals (1 to 28 days): in most cases, mileage is unlimited. Some companies may apply limits after a certain number of days.
International market: in other countries, it is common for several rental companies to apply limited mileage, even for short periods.
How is mileage recorded?
The vehicle’s odometer reading is recorded both at pickup and return. It is important that you are present during the initial inspection to check and validate the mileage when picking up the car, and also record the mileage driven at drop-off to ensure there are no discrepancies or incorrect charges.
How can I check if my reservation includes unlimited or limited mileage?
Depending on your destination, this information is displayed on the website when selecting the vehicle. In Europe, many rental companies may offer limited mileage, and this detail will be available in the booking conditions.
You can also check your voucher, in the “Your Booking” section, where the vehicle features and any purchased add-ons are listed. In addition, these details can be confirmed when signing the contract at the rental counter.
What happens if I exceed the mileage limit included in my booking?
An additional fee will be charged per extra kilometer, according to the rental company’s policy. The rates can be reviewed before picking up the vehicle.
Is mileage counted per day or for the total rental period?
Usually, the limit is calculated for the total rental period (e.g., 700 km for 7 days at 100 km/day), but this may vary depending on the rental company’s policy.
Are there mileage differences between vehicle categories?
Yes. Economy cars, SUVs, vans, and luxury vehicles may have different mileage policies. Always check before booking.
Important tips:
Always check your voucher to confirm the type of mileage included in your reservation.
Ask at the rental counter for the price charged per extra kilometer if you exceed the limit.
Some plans may offer additional km packages if the included mileage doesn’t meet your needs. In such cases, the prices may be higher.
Below, we will show some examples that may appear across different digital platforms.
On the website:
In the app:
