City: Long Island, NY

Category: Getting Here, Getting Around

Telephone: (631) 588-1055

Description: All of the major rental car companies have pick-up and drop-off locations at the New York–area airports, as well as in communities throughout Long Island (including some hotels). While all of these companies offer daily or weekly car rentals with unlimited mileage, you will be charged extra for insurance, a GPS system, and various other vehicle upgrades you request. You’re also responsible for paying for your own gas, tolls, and parking tickets.When you add the various insurance coverage options for your rental vehicle, the quoted price will typically double or triple. Be sure to purchase at least the LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) insurance, which protects just the rental vehicle itself. Most rental car companies require the driver to be at least 25 years old and have a major credit card in his or her name (which must be presented when picking up the vehicle). The credit card must have enough credit available to cover the cost of the entire rental. Some rental car companies will allow a debit card to be used; however, the renter must have an average or better credit rating. A temporary hold of up to three times the cost of the entire rental will also be placed on the debit card account for a period of up to a week (sometime longer) beyond when the vehicle will be dropped off.Be sure to drop off the vehicle, with a full tank of gas (unless otherwise instructed), when and where it’s stipulated in the renter’s agreement. If you need to keep the car longer or change the drop-off location, be sure to call the rental car company in advance; otherwise, late fees and other charges will be applied to the rental. Here are the main contact numbers and Web sites for the most popular rental car companies: