Rental Car Cost Calculator
Calculate the actual total cost of a rental car, including daily rate, extra mileage beyond what's included, and fuel.
How to use the rental car cost calculator
- Enter the daily rate and the number of days you'll rent the car.
- Enter how many kilometers are included in the total rental price, and how much you expect to drive.
- Enter the price per extra kilometer and the expected fuel cost — the calculator shows the real total cost.
How the total cost is calculated
The calculator adds together the base cost, the cost for kilometers beyond what's included, and fuel:
Extra km = max(0, Expected mileage − Included km)
Total cost = Base cost + (Extra km × Price per km) + Fuel cost
At $65/day for 3 days ($195), 450 km expected with 300 included (150 extra km at $0.35 = $52.50), and $40 in fuel, the total cost is 195 + 52.50 + 40 = $287.50.
The daily rate is rarely the whole price
The daily rate in a rental quote normally covers the car alone. On top come insurance with an excess, which can be reduced for a substantial supplement per day, the fuel policy, airport surcharges, additional drivers, child seats and any one-way drop-off fee. Together these can easily exceed the rental price itself, particularly on short hires.
The fuel terms are worth reading closely. «Full to full» is usually cheapest, since you refill to the same level yourself. Arrangements where you buy a full tank up front are normally priced above pump rates, and you rarely get a refund for what is left. Mileage limits also occur — especially on longer rentals — with excess kilometres charged individually.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I drive less than the included mileage?
You typically just pay the base price — unused miles usually aren't refunded, but at least you avoid the extra charge for driving more.
Should I choose unlimited mileage?
If you plan to drive far, an offer with unlimited mileage can be cheaper overall than paying per extra mile. Compare the total price, not just the daily rate.
Is fuel included in the rental price?
Usually not. Most rental car companies require you to return the car with the same fuel level as at pickup, or charge you for missing fuel plus a refueling fee.