Nothing says adventure like a trip to Hawaii. Last year’s tourist responses, where 60% of visitors say they were likely to return to the state within the next five years, proves this. With quality accommodation, vibrant communities, and unique natural and cultural resources, there’s no end to the wealth of experiences you can encounter on the Hawaiian islands.
If you want to make the most of your journeys in Hawaii, then you should be cruising its roads in style. This doesn’t mean you have to rent a Porsche or Ferrari, which most associate with luxury. Booking a more affordable Jeep Wrangler can heighten the sense of adventure as you drive through the Hawaiian landscape.
Here are some tips to help make your experience smoother.
Familiarize yourself with the best drives for jeeps
Although jeeps are perfect for off-roading, most car rentals will prohibit you from driving on unpaved roads. Luckily, jeep rentals in Hawaii are worth it since most of the state’s best drives are on rental company-approved routes. If you’re going to the Big Island, you can drive within sight of the Kilauea Volcano when you take the Mauna Loa, Volcano Village Scenic Drive. In Maui, you can take your jeep along the Road to Hana, one of the most well-known drives in the state, where you can see waterfalls, aqua caves, and roadside fruit stands. And if you’re going to Kauai, you can enjoy the island’s signature red dirt as you visit overlooks with views of mountain landscapes and pristine coastlines.
Check weather conditions
Check weather conditionsBefore booking a jeep, check for weather conditions at the time of your visit. One of the best parts about renting a Jeep Wrangler is driving top-down and being fully immersed in the Hawaiian landscape. But if your holiday happens to fall during the rainy season of November to March, then you may have to reconsider your choice of vehicle. Hawaiian weather can shift very quickly, and you may not have the time to stop at the roadside and pull your roof up. But if you don’t mind a bit of rain, you can check weather updates daily to know whether to leave your accommodations with the top up.
Know how to save up on gas
You should consider gas expenses when renting any car in Hawaii. US News reports that gas prices in the state are the most expensive in the country. Fortunately, there are advantages to renting a jeep. Turning off your air conditioning can heighten fuel efficiency since you’re not forcing the compressor to work hard. And with a jeep driven top-down at typical speed limits of up to 60 mph, you can enjoy the wind without increasing the drag in your car. Moreover, since your vehicle is being cared for by a rental company, you can ensure that your rental’s engine is properly tuned and its tires have ample pressure, reducing gas expenditure. Driving sensibly by avoiding aggressive driving tactics — like speeding and rapid acceleration or braking — can also help you save on gas expenses.
Secure your belongings
Jeeps don’t have trunks, so everything is accessible to outsiders when you have the top down. As a rule, taking valuables like wallets, hotel keys, and passports wherever you go is best. But if you’re leaving clothes, towels, and other belongings, you can avoid theft by raising the top each time you park. Alternatively, you can secure your belongings in a lockbox that can’t easily be removed from your vehicle.
Traveling in a jeep can elevate your Hawaii experience. With these four tips, you can be prepared when renting your vehicle and enjoy a hassle-free trip.
