Fuel policy can quietly swing your trip budget. Prepaying a full tank sounds easy; filling up yourself often costs less. Here’s how to choose the smartest option—and how Hola Car Rentals helps you avoid surprises at return.
Know the common fuel policies
- Full‑to‑Full: Pick up full, return full. Keep the receipt from a station near the drop‑off. This is usually the cheapest if you’re willing to refuel.
- Prepaid Fuel: Pay for a full tank upfront and return at any level. Great when you’ll run the gauge near empty or depart at dawn from Orlando Airport car rental.
- Refuel Service: Skip the gas stop and the supplier refuels for you—often with a per‑gallon service premium.
How to decide—based on your itinerary
City‑only driving or short hops? Full‑to‑Full wins most of the time. Long one‑way days or early returns from hotel neighborhoods (e.g., Miami car hire) can justify Prepaid Fuel for stress‑free drop‑off. For scenic loops like the Pacific coast, booking from Los Angeles car rental with Full‑to‑Full keeps costs predictable.
Smart refueling tips
- Know your tank size and expected mileage. If you’ll only burn half a tank, Prepaid Fuel rarely pencils out.
- Refuel within 10 miles of the return location and keep the printed receipt.
- Avoid airport‑adjacent “last‑chance” stations with inflated prices—drive one or two exits earlier.
- On desert routes from Las Vegas car hire, top up before long stretches with limited services.
- Hybrid/EV note: range varies by speed, grade, and A/C use. Plan charging or fueling stops ahead of time.
What Hola Car Rentals adds
With Hola Car Rentals you’ll see the fuel policy before you book—no guessing. Our All‑Inclusive+ Rate covers key protections, there are No additional fees, and you’ll enjoy Free Cancellation up to 48 hours. Select itineraries include cashback on tolls and travel insurance up to US$150,000.
FAQs
Do I pay for a full tank with Prepaid Fuel even if I return half? Yes—prepay is flat‑priced per tank, so it’s best when you’ll use most of it.
What if I return slightly under full on Full‑to‑Full? The supplier may charge a top‑off plus a service fee. Keep your final receipt to avoid disputes.
Drive away confident. Choose the policy that matches your itinerary and book with Hola Car Rentals for transparent pricing and maximum coverage.