Car Rental Prices Steady, But Extra Fees May Bite

Car rental prices are expected to remain relatively stable in 2026-27, according to American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT). In its Ground Monitor report, Amex GBT forecasts modest increases of 1.5 to two percent in Canada and the United States.

Rising auto insurance costs could put additional upward pressure on rates. However, restrained GDP growth and improved vehicle supply are helping to keep prices in check.

Amex GBT is also warning about significant growth in city surcharges across North America, including airport fees and day-of-week charges. These extra fees can add up quickly and make renting a car more expensive.

Outside of North America, Australia is expected to see some of the larger increases, with rental rates forecast to rise between three and 3.4 percent. In Latin America, healthy leisure and corporate demand is supporting growth in the car rental sector.

The Netherlands stands out as a region with higher price increases, due to changes to motor vehicle taxes that are increasing the cost of owning vehicles for rental fleets.