Yes, you can absolutely rent a car with unlimited mileage, and it's actually the standard policy for most major rental companies for rentals within the same country. This means you won't pay extra based on the distance you drive. However, the key is understanding the specific rules and common exceptions to avoid unexpected charges.
The standard "unlimited mileage" policy typically applies to leisure rentals picked up and dropped off in the same country. For example, a round-trip rental from Los Angeles to Las Vegas and back would be covered. The major players like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis almost always include this.
The most critical exceptions involve one-way rentals (picking up a car in one city and dropping it off in another) and international travel. One-way rentals often have a mileage cap or a per-mile fee after a certain allowance. Cross-border trips, like driving from the U.S. into Canada or Mexico, usually require a special permit and will almost always have mileage restrictions or significant fees.
| Rental Scenario | Unlimited Mileage Typically Available? | Common Exceptions & Notes |
|---|
| Standard Round-Trip (Domestic) | Yes | Standard for major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget. |
| One-Way Rental (Domestic) | Sometimes | Often has a mileage allowance (e.g., 500 miles); per-mile fee applies after. |
| Cross-Border (e.g., US to Canada) | Rarely | Usually requires advance permission and has strict mileage limits. |
| Luxury or Exotic Car Rental | Rarely | High-value vehicles almost always have strict daily mileage caps. |
| Long-Term Rental (Monthly) | Usually Yes | Confirm with the rental agreement, as it's often included. |
| Certain Discount/Promotional Rates | Check Fine Print | Some deeply discounted rates may reinstate mileage caps. |
Always read the full terms and conditions before booking. If you have a long road trip planned, explicitly confirm with the rental agent that your specific route is covered under an unlimited mileage plan. For one-way moves, compare the total cost, including any mileage fees, between companies.
