Tag: Hertz

  • Hertz Reveals 2026 U.S. Spring Travel Trends

    Hertz Reveals 2026 U.S. Spring Travel Trends

    Hertz data reveals longer spring break travel window and top destinations

     New Hertz travel insights reveal how spring break travel is shifting, with travelers embracing more flexible timing and longer windows for their getaways. Instead of a single peak spring break week, Hertz data shows several high-demand periods across both March and April, opening up more opportunities for families and groups to travel and save. Additionally, one in three Hertz customers is currently renting specifically for road trips and driving vacations, reflecting renewed interest in travel by car.

    Spring Break Spans Multiple Weeks*
    Spring break is no longer limited to one defined week. Hertz data reveals that travelers are heading out throughout March and April, with top pick up days forecasted to be April 9, April 17, April 23 and April 24. In March, the most popular pick up days were March 6, March 13 and March 27. This staggered demand points to smoother travel experiences for families and groups hitting the road.

    Want to Save? Start Your Trip on a Wednesday or Sunday
    Thursday and Friday remain the most popular pickup days for spring travel, but Hertz data shows that starting a rental on a Wednesday or Sunday offers a better chance at lower rates. Travelers can also join Hertz Gold+ for free to access member‑only rates and skip the rental counter. Plus, travelers can enjoy 20% off Pay Later rates with Hertz’s Spring Flash Sale when they book between April 6-13 and pick up between April 6-June 5. 

    Warm-Weather Cities Continue to Lead
    Sunshine, family‑friendly activities, and ease of planning keep warm‑weather destinations at the top of travelers’ lists. The top spring destinations based on rental car demand are:

    • Orlando
    • Los Angeles
    • Phoenix, Atlanta
    • Las Vegas
    • Tampa
    • Honolulu
    • Miami
    • Denver
    • Dallas

     Book Early for the Best Choice
    Travelers typically reserve rental cars 16 days in advance for spring trips but booking the car at the same time as flights and hotels can improve availability and support cost savings. Early bookings also provide access to a wider selection of vehicles – particularly SUVs and vans, which are among the most booked options this spring as travelers prioritize space for kids, luggage, and gear.

    Tips for a Faster, Smoother Car Rental Experience

    • Locking in your gas price. At Hertz, you can prepay for refueling at pickup to lock in pricing to avoid sticker shock at the pump AND save time at return.
    • Adding your flight information to your car rental reservation. Our team actively monitors flight delays and cancellations, and adding your flight information can help protect your reservation.
    • Booking at a neighborhood location. If you’re not flying into an airport, Hertz has thousands of convenient neighborhood locations across the country.
    • Modifying your reservation on the Hertz app or Hertz.com if your travel plans get disrupted and you need to make changes.
    • Joining Hertz Gold+ (it’s free!) to skip the counter and go straight to your car when you land. This benefit can be a huge timesaver, especially after flight delays.

    In sum, spring travel is expanding beyond a single week, giving travelers more flexibility and control over their plans. Whether heading to the beach, visiting family, or chasing warm weather, Hertz data shows that early planning and flexible timing can make spring getaways more seamless.

    *Data as of March 30, 2026

  • Hertz Expands Premium Fleet with INEOS Grenadier

    Hertz Expands Premium Fleet with INEOS Grenadier

    A strikingly distinctive premium 4X4 now available to rent in the U.S.
    Photos and video: HERE

    ESTERO, Fla., March 18, 2026 – Hertz, one of the world’s largest rental car companies, today announced the addition of the INEOS Grenadier to its U.S. rental fleet, further expanding the lineup of premium vehicles available to customers.

    Hertz will provide customers with unmatched access to this premium 4X4 from INEOS Automotive – offering the largest availability of Grenadiers for rent anywhere in the U.S. Customers can reserve this coveted vehicle at select airport locations nationwide starting this spring.

    “At Hertz, we’re focused on offering the newest and most exciting vehicles in the industry and giving customers access to modern, high quality rental options,” said Adnan Manzur, Senior Vice President, North America Customer Operations at Hertz. “With the addition of the INEOS Grenadier, we’re continuing to broaden customer choice and reflect travelers’ evolving preferences for unique, premium driving experiences that make the journey just as memorable as the destination.”

    The INEOS Grenadier 4X4 combines British design with German engineering. INEOS Automotive entered the Americas market in 2023 and continues to grow its portfolio and presence across the region. Hertz renters will experience the Grenadier in high-spec Fieldmaster trim. This configuration includes leather upholstery, heated seats, safari windows, a premium sound system, 18‑inch alloy wheels, delivering both comfort and capability to customers.

    “This partnership represents an exciting step forward for our continued expansion in North America,” said Gregor Hembrough, EVP, INEOS Automotive Americas. “Introducing the Grenadier to Hertz customers gives more drivers the opportunity to experience our vehicle’s capability and engineering firsthand. It also highlights the strong demand we’re seeing as our brand continues to grow its presence across the North America.”

    To learn more and reserve a Grenadier, visit Hertz.com.

    To find out more about INEOS Grenadier’s story, visit INEOSGrenadier.com.

    About Hertz
    Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. is one of the world’s leading car rental and mobility solutions providers. Its subsidiaries, including The Hertz Corporation, and licensees operate the Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty, and Firefly vehicle rental brands, with more than 11,000 rental locations in 160 countries around the globe. The Company also operates the Hertz Car Sales brand, which offers a range of quality, competitively priced used cars for sale online and at locations across the United States, and the Hertz 24/7 car-sharing business in Europe. For more information about Hertz, visit www.hertz.com.

    ABOUT INEOS AUTOMOTIVE
    In 2017, INEOS Chairman Jim Ratcliffe, a car enthusiast and experienced adventurer, identified a gap in the market for an uncompromising 4X4 engineered for modern day compliance and reliability. INEOS Automotive Limited was formed and a senior team of automotive professionals assembled to bring the vision to reality with a fresh perspective of 4X4 development and manufacturing. 

    In 2022 the INEOS Grenadier was launched: a truly global 4X4 built from the ground up that combines rugged British spirit and design with German engineering rigour. The Grenadier provides best-in-class off-road capability, durability, and reliability with the modern comfort and refinement customers expect wherever they are in the world. In 2023 a double-cab pick-up variant of the Grenadier was launched called the Quartermaster. 

    INEOS Automotive is a subsidiary of INEOS, a leading manufacturer of petrochemicals, specialty chemicals and oil products. It employs 24,500 people across 29 businesses, with a production network spanning 154 sites in 27 countries. From paints to plastics, textiles to technology, medicines to mobile phones, materials manufactured by INEOS enhance almost every aspect of modern life. In 2025, INEOS had sales of $55bn. To find out more about INEOS Automotive, visit www.ineosgrenadier.com.

  • Hertz Makes Holiday Travel Golden with Gold Squad’s Final 2025 Stop at Newark Airport

    Hertz Makes Holiday Travel Golden with Gold Squad’s Final 2025 Stop at Newark Airport

     Hertz extends its Gold Squad Golden Retriever ambassador program into 2026

    ESTERO, Fla., Dec. 18, 2025 – After debuting its nationwide Hertz Gold Squad program earlier this year, Hertz is bringing its beloved team of highly-trained Golden Retrievers to Newark Liberty International Airport for their final 2025 appearance with plans to continue spreading joy into 2026. As millions of Americans hit the road for what is expected to be one of the busiest holiday travel seasons in years, the Gold Squad will greet travelers with comfort, joy, and surprise perks during peak December travel days.

    Newark, one of Hertz’s top 10 holiday rental hotspots, will be the last stop before the Gold Squad returns in 2026 with an expanded lineup of airport and event appearances across the country.

    “The Gold Squad has been a bright spot for travelers throughout the year, and Newark is the perfect place for their final stop in 2025,” said Adnan Manzur SVP, North America Customer Operations at Hertz. “Holiday travel can be hectic, and a few minutes with a Gold Squad Golden Retriever can make the whole journey feel a little more golden.”

    Holiday Travel Trends: What Travelers Should Know
    With significantly lower gas prices this year, the roadways are going to be especially busy. According to Hertz’s travel partner AAA, more than 109 million Americans will hit the road this holiday season – up by over two million from last year. Based on Hertz data, here’s what to know before you go:

    • December 20 is expected to be the busiest rental car pick-up day nationwide.
    • Top 10 Holiday Hotspots:
      1. Orlando
      2. Los Angeles
      3. Atlanta
      4. Miami
      5. Phoenix
      6. Newark
      7. Dallas
      8. Boston
      9. Chicago
      10. Las Vegas
    • Trending Destinations: Miami, Palm Springs, and Phoenix are seeing the biggest jumps in year-over-year rental car demand.
    • Fresh New Rides: Hertz customers will be among the first to drive thousands of 2026 vehicles now on the road, including the Cadillac CT5, Volvo XC60, Ford Mustang EcoBoost, Jeep Grand Wagoneer and more.

    Here are some of Hertz’s Golden Travel Tips:

    • Reserve early as possible for the most vehicle availability and widest selection.
    • Check out Hertz’s vehicle guide to find the perfect vehicle to fit all your passengers, luggage, and gifts this holiday season.
    • Add flight details to your reservation so Hertz can monitor delays and adjust accordingly.
    • Join Hertz Gold Plus Rewards (it’s free to sign up!) to access exclusive member discounts, skip the counter at select locations, earn points redeemable for free rental days and more.
    • Check Hertz neighborhood locations for additional availability during peak travel times.

    About the Hertz Gold Squad
    Launched earlier this year, the Hertz Gold Squad is a team of highly trained Golden Retrievers that specialize in providing comfort in busy environments, such as airports and large events. They were selected for their calm temperament and ability to interact safely with travelers. Each dog works with a certified handler to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

    The pups have visited airports across the U.S. throughout 2025, delighting customers with soothing interactions, photo moments, and plenty of pets.

    Newark is the last stop for 2025, with additional locations and appearances planned for 2026. Travelers can follow the Squad and share where they’d like to see the pups next on InstagramXFacebook and TikTok.

    *Travel data based on Hertz advance bookings as of Dec. 10, 2025.

    About Hertz
    Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. is one of the world’s leading car rental and mobility solutions providers. Its subsidiaries, including The Hertz Corporation, and licensees operate the Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty, and Firefly vehicle rental brands, with more than 11,000 rental locations in 160 countries around the globe. The Company also operates the Hertz Car Sales brand, which offers a range of quality, competitively priced used cars for sale online and at locations across the United States, and the Hertz 24/7 car-sharing business in Europe. For more information about Hertz, visit www.hertz.com.

  • Hertz Brings Golden Retriever ‘Gold Squad’ to Airports Nationwide

    Hertz Brings Golden Retriever ‘Gold Squad’ to Airports Nationwide

    Golden Retrievers to greet weary travelers at select U.S. airports; Travelers help to pick next ‘Gold Squad’ destination

    Estero, Fla., Aug. 25, 2025 – As the busy Labor Day weekend approaches, Hertz, one of the world’s largest car rental companies, is seeking to comfort stressed travelers. With a mission to make travelers feel golden, Hertz is bringing its ‘Gold Squad’ – a team of highly trained Golden Retrievers – to select airports across the country. These friendly, furry ambassadors aim to bring comfort, calm and cuddles during peak travel times, ensuring all Hertz customers hit the road with a smile.

    “With the Hertz ‘Gold Squad’ making surprise appearances across the country, we’re aiming to delight customers with something unexpected,” said Kari Birdsall, Vice President, Operations Excellence at Hertz. “Whether it’s a warm welcome from a Golden Retriever or the ease of skipping the counter with Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership, we’re focused on making every step of the rental experience feel convenient, seamless and a little more golden.”

    Why it Matters:

    • A recent study from YouGov indicates 70% of Americans find booking a vacation stressful, with specific pain points including booking airport transfers and flights.
    • The rental car lot at an airport is often the last leg of a trip; and by the time travelers reach the counter, they’re often exhausted from a long day of traveling.
    • With over 17 million travelers braving the holiday weekend in 2024, this year is sure to bring even more of a frenzy to flying.

     

    The Hertz ‘Gold Squad,’ including Cooper the Golden Retriever, made their debut at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) last week, providing comfort to thousands of travelers. Now, they want to surprise travelers in additional cities like Chicago, San Diego and Atlanta, but before they head out, they’re inviting travelers to share their opinion on social to decide future stops. To make that final trek feel golden, the Hertz ‘Gold Squad’ are ready to greet travelers with wagging tails and warm smiles as they await their next destination.

    Select airports will host ‘Gold Squad’ visits, featuring exclusive giveaways and on-site support to help travelers enroll in Hertz’s free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program, which makes future car rentals faster, easier and more rewarding. Members can enjoy exclusive rates when booking on Hertz.com or the Hertz app, skip the counter at select locations, and earn points redeemable for free rental days and more.

     

    To bark your opinion for the ‘Gold Squad’s’ next location, travelers can comment on Hertz’s recent post. To travel along with the Hertz ‘Gold Squad’, follow Hertz on Instagram, X, Facebook and TikTok and learn more at hertz.com/goldsquad.

    About Hertz
    Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. is one of the world’s leading car rental and mobility solutions providers. Its subsidiaries, including The Hertz Corporation, and licensees operate the Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty, and Firefly vehicle rental brands, with more than 11,000 rental locations in 160 countries around the globe. The Company also operates the Hertz Car Sales brand, which offers a range of quality, competitively priced used cars for sale online and at locations across the United States, and the Hertz 24/7 car-sharing business in Europe. For more information about Hertz, visit www.hertz.com.