Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CDW
includes a very high deductible (typically $1,000-1,500). Though
each rental company has its own variation, basic CDW costs $15-35 a day
(figure roughly 30 percent extra) and reduces your liability, but does not elim-
inate it. When you pick up the car, you'll be offered the chance to “buy down”
the basic deductible to zero (for an additional $10-30/day; this is sometimes
called “super CDW”).
If you opt for
credit-card coverage,
there's a catch. You'll technically
have to decline all coverage offered by the car-rental company, which means
they can place a hold on your card (which can be up to the full value of the
car). In case of damage, it can be time-consuming to resolve the charges with
your credit-card company. Before you decide on this option, quiz your credit-
card company about how it works.
