© SmartXpat All Rights Reserved 2022
Renting a Car in Cancun
Are you looking to rent a car in Cancun for your upcoming trip ? If driving around Cancun, Mexico is on your to-do list then keep reading and find out about the best places to rent a car in Cancun, helpful tips about how to steer clear of scams, and learn what it’s like cruising through these Mexican streets.
By the end of this article you should feel confident with the whole Mexico car rental experience!
For the past 7 years, I have been fortunate enough to visit and explore Cancun. In my opinion, there is no experience quite like a road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula; you get to learn about traditional Mexican culture by exploring small villages, stumble across hidden cenotes or marvel at majestic archeological sites when they’re completely deserted. The good news is that driving in this region of Mexico isn’t dangerous either – so if your journey begins from Cancun Airport then you’ll be off on an incredible adventure right away!
When it comes to renting a car in Cancun, Discover Cars should be your go-to destination. I cannot recommend them enough – here’s why! Personally, whenever I’m travelling in Mexico and seeking a rental car, Discover Cars is my first choice as they provide exceptional service at unbeatable prices. Don’t just take my word for it – try them out for yourself!
One of the most incredible aspects about Discover Cars? You can get complete coverage Mexican insurance for just around $7 USD daily.
Believe it or not, Cancun is one of the few cities where renting a car from either the airport or in town has comparable rates – without any extra fees. Not only that, but ditching an expensive airport transfer will save you money too! A day’s worth of car rental may even be cheaper than paying for transportation to and from your destination anyway. Check out some examples below as evidence!
Read Next:
Now, let us delve into the most popular queries when it comes to renting a car in Cancun.
When one wonders if they need a car in Cancun, the answer is … it depends. In both Downtown and the Hotel Zone of Cancun, you can easily take public transport to move around; however, most exclusive resorts won’t require your own ride. Plus, if ever you wish to explore nearby restaurants or nightlife spots- there are always taxis available! Just be aware though – Uber and other taxi apps do not operate within Cancun at this time!
– Freedom to explore and discover new locales?
– Make the most of your time in Cancun, seeing as many places as possible both near and far from there?
– Autonomy over your journey’s itinerary?
– Traveling solo and seeking to make friends? Exploring tours from Cancun could be the answer.
– Not comfortable driving in an unfamiliar country? Joining organized trips might be ideal for you!
– If you plan on staying put at a luxurious all-inclusive hotel, this option is available too.
– Unfortunately, those under 21 years of age would not have access to rent cars or motorbikes in Mexico due to legal requirements.
– Don’t want the hassle of planning your own itinerary while visiting Cancun? Tour packages are here to help take away that burden and give you more time for fun activities as well as memorable conversations with newfound companions!
I can certainly understand the hesitation when it comes to renting a car in Cancun, however, I strongly believe it’s the best way to explore around. If you adhere to some simple guidelines that I’ll mention later on, remain conscious about your surroundings and understand what might occur then everything will be okay! Bad things may happen everywhere including Mexico, but let us hope for the very best!
Consequently, I recommend buying comprehensive car insurance with zero deductible in addition to your travel insurance.
And while it’s impossible for anyone to guarantee that nothing will go wrong, I’m confident that following this advice can significantly reduce the risk of being deceived or making mistakes.
Driving in Cancun is generally considered secure and, by all means, safe most of the time. Nonetheless, bear in mind that you are on foreign ground with different driving regulations than your native country. To help you feel more at ease while driving in Mexico, I have compiled some useful tips located at the end of this article – specifically tailored to those visiting Cancun!
Deciding on the premier car rental agency is no easy task, considering all of the variables that come into play: what season it is, how long you need to rent for and whether they have availability are but a few considerations.
If you’re looking for the most economical car rental, I suggest using Discover Cars. Their algorithm displays the lowest prices on top and lets you browse through different rates, companies, and models. Plus with their full coverage insurance option in place, all damages can be reimbursed – just remember to pay upfront first! All these features make Discover Cars an efficient platform that enables quick comparison between offers before booking your perfect ride.
If you’re looking to rent a car in Cancun, you’ll have options at the airport or just outside. When selecting your rental company, be sure to ask about any shuttle services they provide and keep an eye out for hidden costs!
Read next our guide on renting a car in Tulum.
Cancun car rental prices rise and fall depending on the season, vehicle model, age of driver, and when you make the reservation. While you may come across a daily rate as low as 10 USD it is important to note that this often excludes basic insurance coverage plus taxes – costs that are essential for any journey. To ensure your wallet isn’t hit with extras after signing up to rent a car in Cancun look out for deals between 10-70USD that include all necessary insurances and taxes before making a decision.
When it comes to car rentals in Cancun, the most convenient and cost-effective location is the Cancun International Airport (CUN). With a multitude of rental companies providing an array of vehicles on site, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. Although airport car rental might be slightly more expensive than off-site agencies, any money saved from renting elsewhere will quickly be spent on transportation costs required to get there. Furthermore, by choosing a car rental at the airport you save valuable time – quite possibly one of travel’s greatest commodities!
The vast majority of car makes and models in Mexico are identical to those commonly found in the US, particularly Nissan, Toyota, Chevrolet, and Kia. Nevertheless, several foreign companies also have a significant presence on Mexican roads such as Peugeot from France and Renault from Germany.
Shopping for the perfect car rental in Cancun doesn’t have to be a confusing process. Whether you’re searching for an automatic or manual car, small or luxury model, there is something out there that fits your needs and budget! It’s important to note that smaller cars usually come with more competitive prices; larger vehicles may offer enhanced safety but at a higher cost. To guarantee the most affordable rate, try booking well ahead of time during peak travel seasons – it’ll keep costs down while ensuring availability too!
If you’re seeking something more than just a regular car, like a dune buggy or any of the top-of-the-line luxury cars, your Cancun rental options are typically limited to automatic transmission. However, when booking with Discover Cars you have the advantage: all vehicles come labeled as either manual or automatic so that there’s no confusion over what type of vehicle you will receive!
On the right side, the same as in countries like the United States, Canada and most of Europe! If you’re still not sure how to drive on your travels, don’t hesitate to ask any questions when collecting your car rental reservation.
Most Companies will only give you a car if you are over 25 years old
In Cancun, those over the age of 25 can rent a car from any company without restrictions. For underage drivers aged 21-24, companies may charge an additional fee up to $20 USD per day. Notably, some Mexico car rental companies in Cancun do offer rentals for drivers between 18 and 20 years old.
If you’re between 18 and 24 and need to rent a car in Cancun, be sure to compare every company’s policy before booking – that way, you can find the best deal for underage renters.
This is the list of things that you need to be able to rent a car in Cancun:
If you hail from a Latin-alphabet country, you are in luck; there is no need for an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Cancun. Your regular driving license should suffice! Unfortunately, this does not apply if your home country uses another alphabet. In that case, an IDP will be required to get behind the wheel of any vehicle rented in Mexico. Additionally, make sure that your driver’s license has been valid for at least one year before attempting to rent – some companies may refuse service without it.
If you have plans to rent a car in Cancun or any other part of Mexico, it is mandatory that you possess a credit card. This is due to the fact that rental agencies will need to keep an amount as security for potential fines and damages. Though if desired, you could pay your car rental cost with a debit card while using your credit card solely for the deposit fee; this would help lessen the sum taken from your account and prevent reaching its limit in case money was tight at any given moment.
Debit cards might be accepted in some cases, but not all businesses allow them and even if they do, the process is quite inconvenient. To complicate matters further, rental companies may have to make a real charge of the deposit which will later be refunded upon completion of your trip – assuming everything went well. So if you don’t possess a credit card for Cancun car rentals prior to leaving home, it’s best that you get one before embarking on your journey!
If you plan to drive in Mexico, it’s essential that you carry at least Mexican Personal Liability Insurance. Fortunately, many rental companies already include this coverage as part of their basic rates so that there are no misunderstandings or issues down the road. Prices for insurance coverage vary by company; however, Personal Liability Insurance is standard and should cost around $7-$10 USD per day — included within your base rental fee along with CDW (Collision Damage Waiver).
Despite this, the full insurance plan usually waives the deductible fee and I strongly advise that you invest in it. Depending on your car rental company, like America Car Rental for instance, there will be various prices associated with different types of insurances like tires and windows protection. Therefore, be sure to ask what is not included when considering purchasing a Full insurance package.
Furthermore, many car rental agencies require that you purchase their insurance before they will let you use their vehicles. I’ll expand on this further in the next section.
When traveling to Mexico, it is important to verify that your United States credit card company provides car rental coverage for you. Ensure they have sent documentation of their policy so you can present it on arrival at the rental location. Some may try and encourage buying Mexican insurance as an alternative; however, this could be unnecessary if you’ve already been granted cover by your domestic provider! Don’t let them scare or stress you out – make sure check beforehand and save yourself some money in the process.
If you are confident that your credit card policy offers full coverage in Mexico, then rest assured–you needn’t worry. All additional protection aside from liability is optional, and therefore you are free to use the insurance included with your own credit card if they verify it’s valid in this country. Bear in mind, however; most policies offered by a majority of credit cards will not cover out-of-pocket expenses for damages incurred immediately after an accident or incident.
Excluding true scams, hidden costs and information are usually found in the fine print but are rarely read. To prevent any unexpected surprises when you rent a car in Cancun, I will go through everything that you need to be aware of here.
While it may feel like a scam when the car rental agent tries to sell you additional insurance coverage, I find that it can actually be quite beneficial. It always gives me peace of mind knowing whatever happens, I will be covered. To avoid any hidden or unforeseen bills for your protection, purchasing the insurance prior is definitely the way to go.
Don’t make the same mistake that I almost did – forgetting to purchase full insurance for my vehicle prior to picking it up. Had I done so, the cost at the counter would have been double! To ensure you get all-inclusive coverage with zero deductible, be sure to ask about full insurance rates when making your booking and also inquire about any exclusions from the policy before committing. Don’t end up like me and find yourself paying twice as much on arrival because of an oversight!
When you rent a car, extra comfort features may be offered for an additional fee. It’s your call if these are worth the expense or not; yet one rental company I recently used tried to get me to pay both full coverage and extra coverage fees – even though I was already paying for complete protection! This seems like something of a scam since it can easily make customers feel cheated. So remember that when you’re renting a vehicle, check carefully what kind of charges will apply before committing yourself.
When you plan on having multiple drivers, there is an extra charge for driver insurance. This additional coverage will provide protection in the event of any issues while behind the wheel. To ensure that your vehicle and possessions are safe from theft or other damages, consider investing in a Theft Protection Insurance policy as well – it could potentially save you thousands!
The car rental company will inspect the vehicle in your presence and note any pre-existing damages or gas level on a form. Make sure to sign it, as they’ll provide you with a copy – don’t forget to keep this handy! When returning the car, be prepared for them to request this form so that they can verify whether you returned it in its original condition & same amount of fuel.
Ensure that you fill up the tank with gas before returning your rental car. Otherwise, if there is a discrepancy between the fuel level when it was initially delivered to you and its current levels, then you will be faced with an exorbitant fee in addition to paying for any missing gasoline. Take this into consideration so that you can avoid additional costs!
– Taxes, fees, penalties, and more information that rental companies may not provide
The enticing introductory rental rate may appear too good to be true, and unfortunately, it often is. At the time of making a reservation, you must ask about additional fees – such as taxes or insurance add-ons – in order to avoid any financial surprises upon arriving at your destination. Be sure this is your first question when speaking with customer service representatives so that you can rest assured knowing exactly what costs are associated with reserving a car!
No matter what happens, you’re covered – car rental companies have your back! Whether it be a flight delay or cancellation, some agencies will offer full refunds for the inconvenience. For those who won’t make their trip as planned, many provide zero cancellation fees and may even return unused days if plans unexpectedly change. So rest assured that when renting cars with these companies – your worries are taken care of.
When renting a car, keep in mind that the daily fare is typically 24 hours from pick-up to drop off. However, some rental companies offer a one hour grace period while others may not – it’s best to ask about this upon pickup so you know what expectations are for returning the vehicle on time. If you’re late by an hour or more, fees will likely be assessed; if applicable, these could range anywhere from charging you for an entire extra day of rent to being charged per additional hour beyond the due date and time. Ask ahead of time so there aren’t any surprises!
With all of this in mind, how can you steer clear of potential scams when renting a car in Cancun? Here are few useful tips to help keep you safe:
By doing this, you can avoid any stress during the car pickup process, which is especially useful if the rental company proves difficult.
When renting a car, don’t forget to inquire about restrictions on mileage, roadside assistance (which used to be free and is now covered if you bought specific insurance), as well as late return fees. Additionally, consider purchasing necessary accessories or insuring the vehicle before your trip begins.
Before returning the car, be sure to top off the tank at a nearby gas station up to the pre-determined amount.
Before reserving a car in Cancun, ask the rental agency about any extra fees that may be associated with cancelling your flight or if they can reimburse you. Additionally, find out whether there is a reimbursement option should you decide to bring your trip to an early conclusion by returning the vehicle prior to its expected due date.
When you rent a car, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle with the rental agent and take pictures/videos of both its interior and exterior. This way, if they accuse you of any damages that weren’t your fault, there will be evidence to back up your claim – I’ve learned this lesson through firsthand experience. Even when all-inclusive insurance coverage has been purchased for peace of mind, taking these steps can help avoid trouble down the line.
Navigating through Cancun is a breeze if you pay attention to the right things. Will do my best to give you the basics however, for more in-depth knowledge on driving in Cancun, be sure to take a look at the linked post above.
Exploring the towns and villages of Yucatan is made easy by not many toll roads around the peninsula. With only two connecting Riviera Maya with Merida, as well as Cancun to Merida passing through Valladolid, you can take your time discovering old churches or hidden cenotes while on a leisurely journey. For those in a hurry to reach their destination more quickly however, taking advantage of these toll roads is ideal – just be sure to remember that they are cash-only and Mexican pesos must be used!
To make sure you are always prepared while traveling around the Yucatan Peninsula, be certain to fill your tank up at any of the plentiful gas stations. Additionally, bring cash with you just in case a station does not accept credit cards–it can happen! If ever you find yourself out of fuel and stranded in the middle of nowhere, look for convenience stores that may have spare petrol for sale.
When navigating the roads of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and La Paz you will come across familiar signs with identical meanings.
– “Alto” being a prime example which means stop. You can usually turn right even when traffic lights are red and cars in roundabouts have priority over those joining it. Additionally, remember to look out for animal warning signs – they indicate that wildlife could be crossing ahead so always drive cautiously so as not to injure any creatures!
– Google Maps / Apple Maps
Google Maps is my go-to for navigation and ensures I don’t get lost, even when it takes me to unfamiliar places. To be on the safe side, always make sure you’ve downloaded an offline map before hitting the road—you never know when there won’t be a reliable cell connection! Additionally, if your destination requires asking locals along the way for assistance, brushing up on some Spanish phrases would certainly come in handy.
– What should you do if you get pulled over
Above all, make sure you obey traffic laws to ensure the police don’t have an excuse for pulling you over. Fasten your seatbelt, follow speed limits (expressed in KM), and avoid talking on the phone while driving at all costs! Despite these precautions, keep in mind that police officers may still stop you anytime as part of their routine checks. If this happens, stay cool—smile, lower your window down and then answer their inquiries without hesitation. Don’t forget: You are allowed to show them your license but not necessarily surrender it; feel free to explain that it’s a safety measure if they press further. All things considered though—it is recommended not even start any discussions with them!
Although I have consulted with a police officer, it is advisable to accept the ticket without resistance, particularly if you don’t have fluency in Spanish. As most Mexican law enforcement officials do not communicate in English, should you find yourself stuck due to language barriers, requesting assistance from someone who can translate would be wise!
– Police asking for a bribe is a real thing in all of Mexico and especially in very touristy places like Cancun
The Mexican legislation strictly forbids law enforcement officers from requesting or taking money, yet it still happens more often than one would expect. These officials won’t explicitly ask for payment, but they could imply that if you pay them on the scene then you will be free to go quickly. Alternately, they might also threaten to take away your driving license until you make it into the office and settle up the fine.
Undoubtedly, tourists don’t want to experience the inconvenience of paying upfront. However, this behavior is strictly prohibited and you should not allow them to evade it. They may persistently inquire “Como lo arreglamos? (How are we going to fix this?),” or they might simply make you wait until you take action. Whatever their strategy may be, do not hesitate to assert your rights.
This situation has happened to me several times, and I would typically insist that the police officer either give me a ticket or let me go. Surprisingly enough, sometimes this worked in my favor and I was able to avoid any fines! Bribing officials is never the answer – although if you do receive a fine, remember that paying within three days can come with a discount of up to 50%. We must unanimously reject bribery so we don’t encourage anyone else to engage in such practices.
– Don’t park in the wrong area
Remember, if you park illegally, not only will you receive a ticket but your license plate may be removed. The “Transito” offices have the authority to take back your plate upon payment of the fine; however, there is an incentive for promptness – pay within 3 days and enjoy a discount! So don’t wait around – act fast to save money.
Life is full of surprises, but not always the pleasant kind. If you ever find yourself in a precarious predicament – whether it’s an accident or feeling unwell or unsafe – here are some tips on how to handle these situations with confidence and expertise.
If you are using an unlocked phone, you can use it in Mexico with a local sim card (as listed below). Alternatively, you could reach out to your service provider – whether they’re located within the US or internationally – and ask them to enable roaming services. Unfortunately, this will come at a rather hefty cost; thus why I suggest opting for the initial option.
Investing in a Mexican sim card is an invaluable choice. With this, you can stay connected and talk to others no matter what situation arises- making it the perfect safety net!
As we all know, Google Maps is a savior when it comes to avoiding getting lost. That’s why the first suggestion I’d give for any international trekker is investing in a sim card with cellular data access so you can use Google Maps at any time. But what if there are areas of your journey that don’t have cell reception? A great way to prepare for such an occasion is downloading the map of the area on your device while still having WIFI connectivity from your hotel room before setting off! With this strategy in place, you’ll be prepared and avoid being stranded even if coverage drops out during your travels.
In Mexico, 911 is your friend if you’re encountering an emergency. Explain your issue to the operator and they will guide you to the appropriate department – no Spanish skills are necessary though having some knowledge can be beneficial!
Driving around Cancun can be a daunting experience, as I found out during my visit there. It was more difficult than navigating Milan! But fear not – Google Maps will see you through any difficulties you may encounter on your journey. Moreover, the majority of attractions in Cancun are located along one straight road known as the Hotel Zone; hence, driving is unnecessary if all you’re looking for lies within its limits. Additionally, venturing further requires using the Carreteral Federal which links Cancun to Tulum and even Chetumal – so traveling beyond its boundaries doesn’t have to feel like an impossibility either!
The Yucatan Peninsula boasts two-lane freeways connecting Tulum to Coba, Valladolid and Chichen Itza. There are also many regional roads to explore, though it’s best to be aware of the occasional pothole! The entire area is safe during daylight hours but take extra care driving at night as some areas lack lighting or visibility for pedestrians or animals on the road.
Unfortunately, due to a revolt among taxi drivers, Uber is not available in Cancun. This makes it unsafe for both riders and drivers alike. Because of this risk factor, I would highly recommend renting a car rather than taking taxis while visiting the area. If you decide against using a rental car once you arrive in Cancun, there are reputable companies that offer transfer services from the airport directly to your hotel or destination of choice. Additionally, if you need assistance getting around town during your stay at any point; make sure to ask the staff at your place of lodging for trusted recommendations on local taxi drivers who can provide safe rides for peace-of-mind travel!
When navigating the streets of Mexico, it is important to remember that vehicles are driven on the right side.
Did you know that the majority of cars in Mexico are automatic? Yet, if you’re looking to save some money while renting a car, opting for a stick shift is your best bet. Many companies offer discounted rates on manual transmission vehicles as an incentive! So don’t miss out – request a cheaper stick shift car and cut down costs on your next car rental!
Finding an ideal car rental in Cancun doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. Discover Cars is the simplest way to book a vehicle and offers unbeatable rates – their search engine scans all leading car hire agencies within the vicinity of Cancun, guaranteeing you get the best deal!
Are you apprehensive about driving in Mexico? I understand, as navigating an unfamiliar country can be intimidating. However, after having driven extensively all over the place myself, allow me to ease your worries and provide some helpful tips for a seamless experience on the road. To make it easy for you, here is a summary list right below; if you would like more comprehensive information regarding this issue, please check out my post linked above!
Cancun gas stations are not self-serve: At the gas station, an attendant will fill up your tank and accept payment for you. Most of these attendants are not actually employed by the station; they depend on tips so remember to show them a little appreciation! After they’re done helping you out, it’s common practice to tip $10-20 Mexican pesos ($0.50-$1 USD). Feel free to give more if you ask them for something extra like checking your tires or oil levels.
Window cleaners may approach you at stop lights: When you are waiting at a red light in Cancun, someone might come up to you and offer to clean your car windshield. Although there is no defined price for this service, it’s customary to pay around $10 pesos ($0.50 USD). It is well worth the small sum for having a squeaky clean windshield!
Mexico traffic lights have an extra step: As you travel through Mexico, notice that the traffic signals cycle from green to yellow and then briefly flash yellow before changing to red.
Yes, Mexico cops do take bribes: Even though I don’t condone this manipulative practice, the easiest way to make any police interaction go away is by paying them. Although law enforcement officers typically only pull someone over for legitimate reasons, they may expect a cash payment in exchange for not issuing a ticket. Therefore, if you are pulled over it’s advisable to pay them instead of risking being penalized with a citation.
With a rental car in Cancun at your disposal, an entire world of exploration opens up to you! Try the crystal clear cenotes near Cancun on Ruta de Los Cenotes in Puerto Morelos – only thirty minutes away from downtown. Spend one day discovering the town of Puerto Morelos; take a snorkeling tour off its beachfront and explore its lush botanical garden. Take it further with a drive down to Playa del Carmen for some more amazing cenotes along Riviera Maya or make your way to Tulum which beckons with both archaeological sites and beautiful beaches, plus several other outstanding cenotes!
For an incredible full-day experience, explore the Coba ruins and neighboring cenotes! Make sure to also visit Xpu-ha, Paamul, and Akumal beaches – all are stunning. After Playa Mujeres, take a quick trip to Isla Blanca – a magnificent untouched beach just north of Cancun.
Exploring the incredible wonders of Yucatan Peninsula is made easier when you rent a car, as it’s one of the safest places for motorists. You can reach all its archeological sites, cenotes and other natural beauties with ease. However, don’t forget that if your destination is Holbox Island, then bringing in your own car isn’t allowed; while Isla Mujeres allows cars but they’re not necessary.
Nonetheless, there are plenty of Mexican states that make for a wonderful road trip. Explore the beauty and culture in Puerto Vallarta, Baja California Sur, Huatulco and Oaxaca Coast or Queretaro by car to really get an unforgettable experience!
Renting a car in Cancun is your ticket to all the major attractions– plus, you can travel on your own terms and even dodge crowded spots by choosing when to move throughout the day. What’s more, Yucatan Peninsula is one of Mexico’s most secure regions, so you have nothing to fear!
Explore the hidden cenotes and ancient ruins of Cancun that can’t be accessed by local transportation, as well as other areas too expensive for taxis. Make your vacation an unforgettable experience with a car rental in Cancun! With this guide providing you tips on traveling around Mexico’s amazing region, hit the road to make lasting memories! Bon voyage!
Traveling with a car in Cancun is both comfortable and secure, as renting one here is painless. To make your journey even more straightforward, simply obtain your rental from the abundant local and global businesses at Cancún International Airport when you arrive by plane. It’s critical to exclusively reserve from reliable companies such as Discover Cars too; plus, ensure that Mexican automotive insurance has been acquired- U.S . coverage won’t apply within Mexico!
© SmartXpat All Rights Reserved 2022