Can You Tow a Trailer with a Rental Car?

Most mainstream rental car companies forbid towing with standard rental cars. If you need to tow, rent a truck/SUV from a provider that explicitly permits towing (e.g., truck rental divisions, U-Haul/Penske) and confirm tow capacity and insurance in writing before you drive.

Renting a car for a trip is a common choice, but what if you need to tow a trailer? Whether you are moving, transporting large items, or going on a camping trip, towing can be a practical solution. But the question is “Can you tow a trailer with a rental car?” 

Not all rental cars allow towing, and many rental companies have strict policies against it. Let’s understand through this easy article what happens if my rental car gets towed, whether it is possible to tow a trailer with a rental car, and how to do it safely and legally.

Checking Rental Car Policies

Before you plan to tow anything, check the rental company’s policy. Most rental car companies do not allow towing with their vehicles. They often specify this in the rental agreement. Companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget do not allow you to tow things with their cars as they want to avoid damage and be responsible for problems. Some companies might allow towing with specific vehicles, like trucks or SUVs, but these are exceptions. So, always ask first and get a clear answer.

Towing Policy of Some Top Car Rental Companies

Enterprise: At Enterprise Rent-A-Car, they do not allow you to attach a hitch or tow anything with the rental car. However, if you rent certain pickup trucks from Enterprise Truck Rental, towing can be allowed.

Alamo: Alamo does not let you attach a hitch or tow anything with their rental cars. You can not use their vehicle for towing at all.

SIXT: Same, SIXT does not allow you to use their rental cars for towing anything, whether it is a vehicle, trailer, or any other object. Towing is completely denied with their rentals.

National: Also, National does not let you attach a hitch or tow anything with their rental cars and other vehicles. When you rent from National, you cannot do any kind of towing.

Why Do Most Rental Companies Not Allow Towing?

Rental companies avoid towing mainly to keep their cars safe and in good condition. Towing puts extra pressure on the vehicle’s engine, transmission, and brakes. Rental cars are not typically fitted with the necessary towing gear, like hitches or wiring.

So, if there is any damage from towing, it can be costly. Rental companies do not want their cars coming back with damage because fixing them can be expensive and might lead to insurance claims. 

Legal and Safety Concerns

Towing a trailer with an unsuitable car isn’t just risky  it can be illegal.
Each state sets limits on trailer weight, vehicle capacity, and braking requirements.
If a rental car isn’t rated for towing, using it can lead to insurance denials or fines in case of an accident.

Also, most rental vehicles are not registered or insured for towing, meaning the rental company could face legal issues if an incident occurs.
To stay safe and compliant:

• Always verify the car’s towing rating.
  
• Confirm the vehicle has an installed hitch.
  
• Get written approval from the rental company.

If you Are worried about the possibility of your rental car being towed, make sure to understand the rules. Most rental companies do not allow towing to avoid damage, but if they do, make sure the car has the right equipment. Rental car towed policies can be different between companies, so it is a good idea to ask first to avoid unexpected fees or legal issues.

Common Reasons for Rental Car Towing

While precise regulations vary across cities, typically violations like unpaid parking tickets, overstaying permitted time limits in loading zones, or blocking emergency lanes near fire hydrants can get rental cars towed through police administration orders. Legally the towing companies cannot charge you directly but the rental agency can pass on service charges involved.

While exact rules vary by city, the most common reasons include:

• Parking in a restricted or emergency zone.
  
• Unpaid parking tickets or expired meters.
  
• Violating snow removal or overnight parking rules.
  
• Blocking driveways or fire hydrants.

Tips to Avoid Rental Car Towing Incidents

• • Always double-check local parking signs.
  • Set reminders for metered parking limits.
    
  • Return rental cars on time.
    
  • Keep the rental company’s roadside assistance number saved in your phone.
    

What Happens If Your Rental Car Gets Towed?

If your rental car gets towed — whether for parking violations or other reasons — here’s what to do immediately:

1. Locate the vehicle. Check towing signs nearby or contact local police to confirm which tow yard has the car.

2. Call the rental company. They legally own the vehicle and must authorize its release.

3. Have documents ready. Keep your rental contract, driver’s license, and ID handy.

4. Understand the fees. You may have to pay towing, storage, or administrative fees.

5. Check your coverage. Contact your insurance or credit card provider to see if towing costs are covered.
   

Quick Tip: Always call the rental agency before paying any towing fees — they often have pre-approved recovery procedures.

What Type of Vehicles Can Tow?

If towing is necessary for you, look for rental options like trucks, SUVs, or vans that are specifically designed for towing. These vehicles typically have the right tools, like a tow hitch and wiring for trailer lights, so you can safely pull a trailer.

At the time of booking, please confirm with the rental company whether they allow towing and the vehicle is suitable for towing correctly.

Insurance Considerations

If some rental companies allow towing, you should check your insurance coverage. Rental cars often come with basic insurance, but this usually does not cover towing. If an accident happens while towing, you can be responsible for all damages.

So, look for additional coverage or check if your personal auto insurance covers towing with a rental car.

Alternatives to Towing with a Rental Car

If towing with a rental car is not possible, you can consider other alternatives. You can use a moving truck rental that’s designed for towing, or you can ship your items separately.

Some services specialize in transporting trailers or heavy items, which can be a safer and more smooth option.

Renting a Trailer Separately

Another option is to rent a trailer separately from a company that specializes in trailers, like U-Haul. U-Haul allows customers to rent trailers and tow them using their own vehicles if suitable.

They also offer tow dollies and car carriers. Just make sure your personal vehicle is capable and legal for towing according to the trailer rental company’s criteria.

Are There Costs and Fees for Towing?

Be aware that there might be extra costs and fees for towing. If you tow without permission, rental companies may charge extra fees or penalties. Also, if they find any damage because of towing, you might have to pay their expensive repair bills.

It is always better to go according to the rules and find out how much it will cost before you make a decision.

Follow The Rules & Be Safe

Breaking the rental company’s rules can cause serious problems. You might have to pay for damages yourself, and it could also hurt your chances of renting cars in the future. What happens when a rental car gets towed?

You could face big fines, towing fees, and penalties from the rental company. Some companies might even ban you from renting with them again. To avoid these issues, always follow the rental agreement.

Special Rental Companies for Towing

Specialty rental companies like U-Haul, Penske, and Ryder provide vehicles specifically for towing. These companies offer trucks with high towing capacities, making them ideal for transporting trailers.

They also provide the necessary towing tools, which is a main benefit over normal car rental services.

U-Haul

• Offers a wide range of trucks, trailers, and towing accessories.
  
• Designed specifically for safe towing operations.
  

Penske Truck Rental

• Allows adding tow dollies and car carriers to your reservation.
  
• Provides detailed guidance on weight limits and hitch setup.
  

Ryder

• Offers commercial-grade trucks suitable for heavy-duty towing.
  

These companies are built for towing — they supply the right equipment, insurance, and safety instructions.

Plan for Easy Route

When towing a trailer, make sure you plan your route carefully. Avoid routes that have tight turns, steep hills, or low-clearance bridges. Try to go with major highways and avoid heavy city traffic if possible. Remember good planning provides a smoother and safer towing experience.

Tips for Safe Towing

• Drive slower than usual to maintain control.
  
• Brake early — extra weight means longer stopping distance.
  
• Check mirrors frequently for trailer stability.

Conclusion

Towing a trailer with a rental car might sound convenient, but in reality, it’s rarely allowed and often risky.
Most rental companies strictly ban towing to protect their vehicles and reduce liability.

If you need to tow, rent from a specialized provider that offers approved vehicles, such as U-Haul or Penske.
Always read the rental agreement carefully, confirm permission in writing, and check insurance coverage.

By planning ahead and choosing the right vehicle, you’ll ensure a safe, legal, and stress-free towing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tow a trailer with a rental car?
Not usually. Most rental companies prohibit towing with standard cars or SUVs. Only certain trucks or moving vehicles allow it.
What should I do if my rental car gets towed?
Call the rental company first they’ll contact the towing service and guide you on how to retrieve the car.
Which rental companies allow towing?
Truck rental divisions like U-Haul, Penske, and Ryder allow towing. Regular car rental brands such as Enterprise, Hertz, and Alamo do not.
Does rental insurance cover towing?
No. Basic rental coverage excludes towing. You must check your personal or credit card insurance for towing protection.
What are the alternatives to towing?
You can rent a moving truck with built-in towing capacity, hire a professional trailer transport service, or use U-Haul’s trailer rental.