MightyIsis

I have read through many of the "car rental in Mexico" posts and there is lots of conflicting information. Here is my story:

Husband, myself and an 8 month old want to rent a car March 2005 for a trip to little place on Xpu Ha beach that recommends getting a car due to isolation. We will need car to explore, and find alternate places to eat. If we took alternate transportation there, we would be kind of stuck.

Question 1 -- I have read many posts about rental companies that try to stick you for every little scratch, so that you need to have them all documented when you pick up the car. I can handle this, just want to know if it happens with all the companies, and am I better off sticking with the "biggies", like Hertz, Avis, et al? Additionally, WHAT CAR RENTAL COMPANIES DO WE NEED TO AVOID?

Question 2 -- Insurance -- some people here say it's mandatory, others say they've been renting in Mexico for years and it's not. I would love some guidance here.

Question 3 -- Infant seats -- Should I just plan on bringing ours from home? Are there rental companies in Cancun that rent baby seats? Is it stupid to take this trip with an 8 month old baby in the first place? This is my first child so I'm more clueless about the baby than about the car rental.

I am sure that there are other questions I should be asking but don't know enough to. Feel free to offer any other thoughts. Gracias to you all in advance for your help.

Dude

I'll just speak to insurance. It is absolutely mandatory and required by Mexican law. You want the best you can get as it may keep you out of jail. You are under a different legal system, people are routinely jailed following accidents until a court determines fault. No insurance is a really bad idea.

Sunnyboy

Even the "majors" at the Cancun airport (actually across the street) will inspected the car (in your presence) and note any scratches and dents on a sheet which is given to the renter to sign. It's up to you to make sure everything is marked down properly. The process takes only a few minutes.

I don't remember if insurance is mandatory but I purchased it just to be on the safe side. I've heard too many horror stories from friends and acquaintences who had problems. To me it was not worth the risk to go without it.

I can't answer your question on car seats as I don't have small children. Personally, I'd leave the child at home with trusted relatives so I could enjoy my vacation rather than have to deal with an 8 month old (but that decision is really up to you).

mayte

Hi, we have been going to that area for years and always rent a car for at least 1 week. Actually the insurance is not mandatory, but most rental agencies require you purchase it. But like a previous person posted, you are crazy if you don't take all they will offer. Biggest reasons, if you get into an accident in Mexico, everyone is guilty until proven innocent. Furthermore, no one will leave the country until all damages have been paid. If two gringos are involved, then its probably a fast settlement. But if its another Mexican or worse a taxi driver, you will be glad you had the insurance. We have had alot success with Budget and Thrifty. I would shy away with lesser known agencies. Its a good idea to shop on the internet, find the car and price you like and then book it. Be sure and print out the confirmation sheet and take with you. I think some of the agencies will list car seats in their websites. If not, I recommend you call their toll free number and ask, but I sure would not book with them-you get better prices on the internet, plus some agencies won't send a confirmation sheet to you. If all else fails, I would bring the car seat. And if you really want to bring the little one, then by all means to that. And good luck with the car. Let me know if you have any other questions.

MightyIsis

Thank you all for that information!

GeordieFoley

Have always rented from AVIS and found it to be the best and easiest way to go. Rates are not that much higher then "local" companies.

Just take all the precaution you would renting a car anywhere