There is so much time and thought that goes into planning a vacation, and deciding on whether or not to rent a car is no easy feat either. While a rental car has its advantages and may be the better choice in some instances, there are also downsides to renting a car in St. Lucia.
The Pros and Cons of Renting a Car in St. Lucia
Pro:
Cost-wise, a rental car can save you a lot of financial stress when on vacation. Aside from the many available car rental deals, you can select a vehicle that suits your budget. You also save more when deciding to rent a car in a group. The cost of hiring a taxi would be steeper when traveling with several people, as there is a fee for each individual. This will rack up more money over your stay and put a dent in your pockets. With hiring a car, however, everyone can pitch in and contribute towards the total cost of the rental car.
Con:
The downside to this is the cost associated with refueling, as the increase in fuel prices continues to soar not just in St. Lucia but the rest of the world. Any parking tickets or fees accumulated while the rental car is in your possession are your responsibility to pay. That includes damages to the exterior and interior of the vehicle. Add-ons may cause the cost of the rental to double. Insurance, baby seats, satnav, permits, and additional driver fees can cause the rental car to seem a lot less desirable.
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Pro:
Having the option to rent a car in St. Lucia through the many car rental companies on the island and having such a wide range makes it easier to select a car that suits you. From budget cars to luxury cars and minivans, you can select the year and make that appeals to you and the features you want. Whether you want a convertible or a practical car, the choice is yours, and the options are endless.
Con:
The rental car you may want won’t always be available at the cost you want, and often, it may not be available at all. In the peak season, your choices get slimmer the more you wait. The newer models are the first to be selected, leaving you with minimum options to find something that suits you. There will be times when there are barely any cars left to select from because the demand usually surpasses the available supply.
Pro:
There is 24/7 customer service. Knowing that you can get in contact with a car rental company rep at any time offers a level of security and reliability that only renting a car can afford you. If you have any concerns or difficulties with the vehicle, someone will always be available to assist you in solving the issue. Every car rental agency is responsible for maintaining a standard of well-serviced rental cars, the likelihood of which is low when it comes to breaking down and leaving you stranded while on vacation.
Con:
If you are stranded, and you need support, there is a cost that comes with roadside assistance, and there may be a fee attached to every instance that it is used.
​Pro:
It saves time and gives you more freedom. You only need to think of a place, hop into your rental car, and drive off. It is genuinely liberating to map out your day on your own time. No waiting, and nothing is restricting your need to act impulsively.
Con:
In as much as it saves time, there is stress that comes with renting a car in St. Lucia. Now you will need to think about finding parking spots and worrying about finding accommodation with parking when making stops. You will need to avoid places where you can be ticketed, and there is also the misfortune of getting a flat tire.
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These are all things to keep in mind when deciding whether a rental car is a right move for you. Weigh your options and determine if renting in St.Lucia will add value to your vacation.
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