Yes, Hertz rents child safety seats for a daily fee. Expect to pay between $13.99 and $15.99 per day, with prices varying by location and seat type. These seats meet National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standards and are available for infants, toddlers, and older children at all major U.S. locations. While convenient, the cumulative cost can be significant for long trips.
Hertz’s program is designed for compliance and traveler convenience. The company states it voluntarily complies with all state laws requiring child safety seats in rental vehicles. This policy ensures renters can meet local legal obligations upon arrival. The primary advantage is avoiding airline baggage fees and the hassle of transporting your own seat, though the rental cost often exceeds checked baggage fees over several days.
Available seat types typically include:
- Infant Car Seats (Rear-Facing): For infants weighing 5-35 lbs.
- Convertible Car Seats: Can be used rear-facing for infants and forward-facing for toddlers.
- Booster Seats: For children who have outgrown a forward-facing harness.
Reservations are not a guarantee of a specific seat model. Availability is first-come, first-served at the rental counter. Critical industry data underscores the importance of proper seats: the NHTSA reports that car seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers.
The main drawback is cost. At an average of $15/day, a week-long rental adds over $100 to your total. For extended rentals, purchasing a new seat locally may be more economical. Furthermore, you cannot inspect the seat’s full history for prior accidents or wear. While Hertz maintains them to standard, some parents prefer the certainty of their own certified seat.
To secure a seat, you must add it to your reservation in advance through Hertz’s website or customer service. It is not automatically included. Always confirm the seat type and daily rate at the time of booking, as fees and inventory can change. Upon pickup, inspect the seat for visible damage, ensure all straps function, and verify it’s the correct type for your child’s age and weight.
