14 ’90s Car Rental Perks That Are Long Gone
This listicle highlights 14 car rental perks from the 1990s that no longer exist today.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
Car rentals in the ’90s came with perks that made travel easier and friendlier. Free maps, unlimited mileage, and no young-driver fees were just part of the experience. Most of these perks have disappeared over time. This list takes a look back at what drivers used to enjoy.
1. Free Multi-Destination Road Maps
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Before smartphones, rental counters gave you large foldout maps for the entire region. These maps helped you plan road trips without relying on memory or asking strangers for directions. They were practical, free, and even kind of fun to keep.
2. Complimentary Toll Transponder
Photo taken by self (User:FastLizard4). Design on FasTrak device by Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority on Wikimedia Commons
Toll passes were often included so drivers could breeze through toll booths without stopping. You did not have to worry about finding change or getting fined later. It was a small touch that made the entire drive feel more seamless.
3. Hassle-Free Airport Pickups
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Rental companies used to provide free shuttle service right from the airport terminal. You did not need to arrange extra transportation just to get to the rental lot. A friendly driver met you curbside and made sure you got where you needed to go.
4. Stamp-and-Go Loyalty Rewards
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Many companies had punch cards that rewarded frequent renters with free upgrades or rentals. Every rental brought you one step closer to a freebie. It felt good to physically see your progress and know you were earning something back.
5. Complimentary Child Safety Seats
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Car seats were available upon request and included at no extra charge. Families appreciated not having to lug bulky equipment through the airport. It was one less thing to pack and one more reason to feel taken care of.
6. Youth-Friendly Rates
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Drivers under 25 could rent cars without extra fees in many places. Being young did not mean you were automatically charged more. This perk made travel more affordable for students, interns, and first-time road-trippers.
7. Drive-O-Meter Freedom
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Unlimited mileage meant you could take a detour, extend your stay, or visit one more city without penalty. There were no hidden fees for driving a little farther than expected. The car felt like your own for the entire trip.
8. Prepaid Gas Options
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You could pay for a full tank upfront and return the car without filling up again. It saved time, especially during early morning drop-offs or tight airport schedules. No last-minute gas station hunt, no stress.
9. Included Breakdown Help
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Roadside assistance was often part of the rental agreement and came at no extra cost. If your battery died or you got a flat, help was just a phone call away. It gave renters peace of mind, especially on long drives.
10. Surprise Vehicle Upgrades
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Sometimes you would book a compact car and get a sedan or SUV instead. It was not a mistake but a nice little bonus to improve your trip. These upgrades felt like a reward for choosing that rental company.
11. Waived Collision Damage Waiver
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Many rentals automatically included damage protection when you paid with certain credit cards. You did not have to buy extra insurance at the counter. It kept things simple and cut down on unexpected charges.
12. GPS Device Included
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Before smartphones, GPS units helped drivers stay on course without printed directions. They came installed or were handed over free of charge. There was no need to pay daily rental fees for navigation.
13. Hands-On Rental Agents
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Agents were helpful, talkative, and sometimes even remembered returning customers. They gave advice on routes and pointed out good food stops or scenic drives. The human touch made the experience more personal.
14. Printed Turn-by-Turn Directions
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If you wanted help getting somewhere, the staff would print out detailed directions just for you. These included estimated times, mileage, and landmarks to look out for. It was like having a custom map in your glove box.