Car Rental Tricks in Cancun and Other Warnings and Dangers

Warnings and Dangers in Cancun: Car Rental Tricks

Although many people wish to rent a car to get around in Cancun, there are many ways that car rental agencies may try to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists in the area. Here are a few things to watch out for:

Separate Insurance Charges

The vast majority of car rental companies will require you to purchase their insurance policy, even if you are already covered by your own. Unfortunately, this coverage is not included in the rental price, so the price you were quoted when booking your rental is likely significantly lower than what you will actually be charged. There is no way to get around paying this charge, so be prepared for your rental cost to be double or triple what you are quoted.

Switched Cars

Many rental agencies will say that they have particular vehicles in their fleet, only to replace them with lower-quality vehicles when you arrive to pick up your car. In many cases, they use those higher-end vehicles as a marketing ploy and do not actually have that type of vehicle, so don’t expect anything fancy. It is often more hassle than it is worth to complain about this, as it usually will not get you anything better.

Defective Vehicles

It is common to receive a rental vehicle that is in poor condition. Before you drive off the lot, be sure to make careful note of any issues and defects and have it signed by the rental agency.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers to do with Cancun car rentals.