ADVICE TO RENT
We Help You Make a Better Decision
Read this article and you will be able to make a more informed choice.
1. Don’t Choose Based Only on the Lowest Price
- Review insurance coverage, security deposits, additional driver fees, toll devices (TAG), and fuel policies.
- We have a saying in Chile: sometimes the cheapest option can end up being the most expensive.
- You may find a lower daily rental rate, but adding full coverage can be an excellent option for traveling with peace of mind.
2. Always Check the Security Deposit Amount
- Verify the deposit, insurance coverage, deductible, and cancellation policy.
- Keep in mind that the security deposit depends on the vehicle you choose and the type of terrain where you plan to drive.
3. Take Photos of the Vehicle When You Pick It Up
- Document the exterior, interior, tires, and fuel level.
- Having evidence in case of any incident is always helpful, especially when the vehicle does not belong to you.
4. Book in Advance
- Especially for summer vacations, Chilean National Holidays (Fiestas Patrias), Easter Week, and the winter season.
- To save significant amounts of money, book well in advance. For example: if you plan to travel during winter and already have your trip organized, rent your vehicle during the preceding summer and you may obtain considerable discounts.
PLATFORM COMPARISON
DiscoverCars
- Approximate rating: 4.6/5
- Advantages: transparency, customer service, and excellent value for money.
- Recommendation: An excellent alternative for renting a vehicle in Chile.
- The platform’s Full Coverage protection works on a reimbursement basis and, in my opinion, is an excellent option for traveling safely. The reimbursement process generally takes up to 15 business days.
EconomyBookings
- Approximate rating: 4.4/5
- Advantages: competitive prices and a wide range of options.
- Considerations: carefully review insurance coverage and rental conditions.
- Customers report that the website automatically adds coverage by default, which is true. Be careful when booking, as the final payment screen may show a higher amount without clearly explaining why additional charges were included.
Rentalcars
- Approximate rating: 1.6/5
- Advantages: extensive international coverage.
- Considerations: numerous customer reviews mention additional charges and difficulties obtaining refunds.
- This platform is not highly recommended. The interface is slow and not particularly user-friendly.
RECOMMENDED CAR RENTAL COMPANIES
Hertz
- Modern fleet and extensive coverage.
- Generally offers higher prices.
- Customer service at rental counters can be inconsistent. While experiences vary by location, many customers report differences in service quality across branches.
Avis
- Vehicles are generally in excellent condition and pickup processes are efficient.
- Well-trained staff.
- Strong insurance and rental coverage options.
Sixt
- Strong presence throughout Chile and suitable options for long-distance travel.
- SIXT recently underwent a restructuring process in Chile, and prices for rentals longer than seven days are currently extremely competitive.
- Border-crossing options between Chile and Argentina are reportedly available, particularly through the Puerto Montt branch.
Invernalia
- The company has currently ceased operations in Chile after operating for two years.
- Customers consistently reported excellent service, fast processes, and effective support at all times.
- The company is expected to return in the near future
Comparative Chart Rent a Car Companies in Chile 2026
| Company | Average Rating | DiscoverCars | EconomyBookings | Coverage | Deposit | Argentina Border Crossing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National | 9.8–10.0 | Yes | Yes | Major airports | High | Check with branch |
| Alamo | 8.7–9.1 | Yes | Yes | Nationwide | High | Restricted depending on vehicle |
| Enterprise | 8.1–8.5 | Yes | Yes | Limited | High | Check with branch |
| Avis | 8.3 | Yes | Yes | Very extensive | High | Yes, with prior authorization (48 hours) |
| Budget | 8.4–9.6 | Yes | Yes | Very extensive | Medium–High | Yes, with prior authorization |
| Hertz | 7.9–9.2 | Yes | Yes | Extensive | High | Yes, with prior authorization |
| Europcar | 9.3 | Yes | Yes | Very extensive | Medium–High | Yes, flexible policy |
| Keddy | 9.7 | Yes | Yes | Extensive | Medium–High | Flexible |
| Sixt | 8.1–9.4 | Yes | Yes | Airports | High | Case by case |
| Ocarroll | N/A | No | No | Airports | High | Depends on branch |
| Thrifty | N/A | Yes | Yes | Airports | High | Depends on branch |
| Salfa Rent | 8.5 | Occasionally | Occasionally | Very extensive | Medium | Yes, with prior notice |
| Mitta | 9.3 | Yes | Yes | Very extensive | Medium | Yes, for some SUVs |
| Econorent | 7.8–9.9 | Yes | Yes | Very extensive | Medium | Usually not allowed |
| Rosselot | 8.2–9.7 | Yes | Yes | Santiago and southern Chile | Medium | Yes |
| First Rent a Car | 8.9 | Yes | Yes | Extensive | Medium | No |
| Chilean Rent a Car | 8.8–9.2 | Yes | Yes | Santiago and regions | Medium | Variable |
| United | 8.5 | Yes | Yes | Regional | Medium | Yes, check with company |
| West Rent a Car | 8.3–9.9 | Yes | Yes | Patagonia | Medium | Usually allowed for rentals over 3 days |
| Gama | 9.0–9.1 | Occasionally | Occasionally | Regional | Medium | Check with company |
| Lucano | 8.2 | Occasionally | Occasionally | Southern Chile | Medium | Yes |
| S Sur | 7.6–7.9 | Occasionally | Occasionally | Southern Chile | Medium | Check with company |
| Euro Rent | 7.9–9.7 | Occasionally | Occasionally | Northern and Central Chile | Medium | Check with company |
| End Of Road | 8.0 | Yes | No | Patagonia | Medium | Yes, with prior notice |
| Tepual | 4.5 (Google) | Occasionally | Occasionally | Puerto Montt and southern Chile | Medium | Check with company |
| Mackenna Rent a Car | 8.2–9.0 | Occasionally | Occasionally | Santiago, Puerto Montt, and Osorno | Medium | Yes |
| Altos de Punta Arenas | 5.0 (Google) | Not common | Not common | Punta Arenas | Medium | Yes, excellent service |
| Fast Rent | 9.5 | Not common | Not common | Southern Chile | Medium | Check with company |
| Fusion | 7.8 | Not common | Not common | Regional | Medium | No |
| Invernalia | 9.7 | Yes | Yes | Patagonia | Medium | Immediate approval, excellent service |
| Recasur | 8.7 | Yes | Yes | Patagonia | Medium | Yes, with prior notice |
| Street | 8.4 | Yes | Yes | Extensive | Medium–High | No |
| Flexways | 8.6 | Yes | Yes | Airports | Medium | Not available |