Car Rental Insurance

Travelers who plan to rent a car in Europe for longer than 31 days, rent a luxury car (usually defined as a vehicle that costs more than $50,000), or rent a van that seats more than 7 passengers, will likely find that their credit card's CDW (collision damage waiver) and theft insurance will not cover such rentals. American Express card holders, however, can purchase Amex's Premium Car Rental Protection which provides CDW/theft coverage on 8 and 9-passenger vans, on many expensive luxury vehicles, and on rental contracts as long as 42 days. The cost is $18 to $25 per rental plus the coverage is "primary" and includes other benefits. Unfortunately, Amex's premium coverage is not available to card holders living in some states.