Off Roading

Can I Drive My Kauai Jeep Wrangler Rental Off-Road?

It’s a Jeep! Jeeps are built for off-roading. So why are drivers limited in where they can drive their rental cars?

Think Common Sense. Would you loan your new vehicle, Jeep or otherwise, to someone who wants to drive a remote, or rutted, or muddy, or brush-lined track? If they become stuck, would it be convenient for you to retrieve them and your vehicle? Who would be responsible for any injury or damage? What if the damage were scratches or “pinstriping”? Is that serious enough to warrant repair? Or a flat tire? Or a damaged undercarriage?

Generally, “remote” areas of the Hawaiian Islands attract locals wishing to escape tourism. It’s not only wise to give these folks privacy, but it’s also a matter of safety for you, your passengers, and your rental vehicle.

Fortunately, Kauai only has one remote area that is not approved for rental Jeeps. It’s located far west on the island. The area is wild and best seen on foot.

Our major rental car partners take violations of driving on unauthorized roads quite seriously. Keep this in mind: Everyone has different driving skills and experiences. Rental car companies are liable for each person’s safety, and you are paying to borrow an expensive piece of equipment. And, we’ve all been taught that borrowed objects should be returned in the same condition as when we took responsibility for them. What driver can guarantee a same-condition vehicle return following drives through brushy, rough terrain? Please— practice Aloha.

Top 5 Reasons Rental Company Knows You Went Off-Roading in Your Jeep Rental

1. There is more mud on your Jeep’s interior than on the exterior.
2. Jeep is covered with numerous scratches, known as “pinstriping”.
3. You rented a White Jeep and returned a Brown Jeep.
4. Jeep arrives at the rental company on a 4-wheel-drive, mud-covered tow truck.
5. You return to the rental company with a tall tale but no Jeep.

Learn more about driving in Kauai and Rules of the Road