What Is Routes Car Rental? Everything U.S. Travelers Need to Know

• what-is-routes-car-rental - What Is Routes Car Rental?
• company-background - Company Background and Expansion
• services-offered - Services Offered by Routes Car Rental
• user-experiences - Real User Experiences and Reviews
• how-it-compares - How Routes Car Rental Compares to Other Companies
• should-you-choose-routes - Should You Choose Routes Car Rental?

1. What Is Routes Car Rental?

If you've been searching for a car rental company and stumbled upon the name Routes, you’re not alone. One common question among travelers is: what is Routes Car Rental? Simply put, Routes Car Rental is an international vehicle rental company that offers affordable rental services in several North American cities, including select U.S. airport locations. Known for its budget-friendly pricing and off-airport pick-up models, Routes targets value-conscious travelers looking for alternatives to major rental brands.

But like many lesser-known companies, opinions about Routes vary, and understanding how they operate—and what you can expect—can make a big difference in your travel experience.

2. Company Background and Expansion

2.1 From Canada to the U.S.

Routes Car Rental began in Canada and has expanded into major U.S. cities such as Orlando, Miami, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Its primary business model focuses on competitive pricing through streamlined services and fewer frills, which appeals especially to budget travelers.

2.2 Growth Through Franchising

Unlike traditional corporate giants, Routes has grown rapidly by offering franchising opportunities. This means some locations may vary in quality and customer service depending on local management. It’s important to check individual location reviews before booking.

3. Services Offered by Routes Car Rental

3.1 Airport Shuttle and Off-Site Pick-Up

Most Routes Car Rental branches are located near—but not inside—airports. Customers are usually required to take a shuttle from the airport terminal to the rental site. While this keeps costs lower, it may add extra time to your itinerary.

3.2 Vehicle Selection

Routes offers a variety of vehicles, from economy cars and sedans to SUVs and minivans. Their fleet is generally newer, though availability can vary by location. Some users have reported unexpected upgrades or occasional wait times during peak travel hours.

3.3 Additional Services and Fees

Like most rental companies, Routes offers insurance packages, GPS rental, and child seats—though often at extra cost. Be sure to read the fine print carefully, especially regarding fuel policies, toll programs, and security deposits.

4. Real User Experiences and Reviews

4.1 The Mixed Review Reality

Routes Car Rental has a mix of positive and negative reviews online. Some travelers praise the affordability and smooth experience, especially if you’re prepared and know what to expect. Others have raised concerns about long wait times, hidden fees, and strict deposit policies.

4.2 A Real Example from Orlando

Take Amanda, a traveler from Texas, who used Routes during her Orlando trip. “The car was clean and cheap, but I had to wait about 30 minutes for the shuttle. Overall, it saved me a lot of money, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re in a rush.”

This story reflects a common theme: if you value convenience above cost, Routes may not be ideal. But if saving money is your priority, it can be a worthwhile choice.

5. How Routes Car Rental Compares to Other Companies

5.1 Price vs. Experience

Compared to companies like Enterprise, Hertz, or National, Routes often wins on price. However, it usually falls short in areas like customer service consistency and speed of pick-up/drop-off.

5.2 What Makes Routes Stand Out?

Routes excels in affordability and vehicle variety for longer rentals. For travelers staying in a destination for more than a few days—and who can manage a short shuttle ride—it offers a great balance of value and function.

6. Should You Choose Routes Car Rental?

Ultimately, whether Routes Car Rental is right for you depends on your travel needs. If you're budget-minded, flexible, and willing to do a bit of legwork (like taking a shuttle or reviewing contract details closely), Routes might offer the best value for your trip.

However, if you’re looking for premium service, in-terminal convenience, or zero-wait customer support, you may want to consider alternative providers. For those looking to compare multiple options in your area, Carvel Car Rental is a great resource to help you find reliable and competitive rentals tailored to your needs.

In the world of car rentals, knowing what to expect can save you time, stress, and money. Routes Car Rental isn’t for everyone—but for the right traveler, it can be just the right fit.