Highlights
What Do Insurance Options Mean? July 2025 Updated Guide
When renting a car, price is usually the most striking factor. But the real difference is made by the insurance (kasko) packages and additional protections you choose during the rental. In this guide, as of July 2025, you will see which options are available for rental car insurances, what they cover, and which ones are more logical in terms of price-performance balance. Of course, all recommendations are presented in compliance with the RentiCar platform!
Mandatory Traffic Insurance (DTS)
The basic insurance that is legally mandatory for all vehicles.
What does it cover?
Personal and material damages caused to the other party in a traffic accident
Legal coverage against third parties
What is it for?
This insurance comes into play if you damage another vehicle or person with the car you rented. However, it does not cover damages to your own vehicle!
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Coverage:
Damage to the vehicle as a result of an accident
Colliding with other vehicles
Maintenance and repair costs in roadside accidents
Also known as CDW/LP = Collision Damage Waiver / Loss Protection.
CDW: Covers vehicle damage in cases of damage such as collision.
LP: Comes into play in cases of theft or total loss.
Note: Most CDW packages include a certain "excess" (deductible). This means there is a minimum amount you have to pay if damage occurs.
Zero Excess – or “Full Coverage”
It is possible to reduce the excess amount to zero by paying extra on top of CDW.
Advantages:
You will not have to pay out-of-pocket even for the slightest damage to the vehicle.
Provides safe and fully covered driving.
Disadvantages:
Increases the price when added to the daily rental fee.
Mini Kasko (Super CDW, Partial Waiver)
A mid-level package that offers a reduced excess amount, close to zero excess.
For example:
While the standard CDW excess amount is 1500 TL, with mini kasko, this can be reduced to 500 -700 TL.
Offering a small difference for extra protection is a frequently preferred option.
Theft Protection (TPL – Theft Protection)
Insurance valid in case of theft or vehicle being stolen.
Full Coverage (TP): Theft is also covered along with CDW.
Partial TP: Subject to a fixed excess.
Tire, Glass, Mirror Protection
Often overlooked details in rental cars:
Tire puncture or damage
Glass breakage
Scratches/impacts on exterior mirrors
While some insurance packages exclude these, protection added with "comprehensive" or additional coverage ensures you don't encounter surprises on the road.
Roadside Assistance and 24/7 Support
Tire change
Battery jump start
Fuel top-up (if the driver forgets fuel)
Towing and service assistance
A very useful support package to avoid being stranded with a rental car.
Additional Driver and Insurance Compatibility
If more than one person will be driving the vehicle, the *additional driver option must be added. Otherwise:
In case of an accident, all insurance may become invalid
The damage may be entirely billed to the renter
How to Choose on RentiCar?
When making a reservation through RentiCar:
Select the vehicle segment.
Proceed to the “Additional Services” or “Insurance & Protection” section.
While DTS is already included, options such as CDW, Mini Kasko, Zero Excess, TP, Tire/Glass Package, Roadside Assistance are easily displayed.
You can see the total price instantly by making your selection according to your needs.
With the RentiCar interface, which leaves no room for confusion in any situation, you can clearly see what each option adds to you and avoid unnecessary extra expenses.RentiCar.
Which One to Choose and When?
Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
Short city trips | Standard CDW is sufficient |
Long trips or crowded cities | Prefer Mini or Zero Excess CDW |
Challenging weather conditions like Antalya, Eastern Black Sea | Combine with tire/glass protection & roadside assistance |
Regions with high risk of vehicle theft | Include TP protection |
Family or group trips with additional drivers | Ensure additional driver + insurance match |
Use Your Head for Safe Travels
Although insurance packages may seem to increase the initial cost, they prevent you from emptying your pockets in case of even the slightest damage or tire puncture. Popular in July 2025, Mini CDW and Zero Excess options offer great advantages for users who prefer medium and long-term holidays.
With RentiCar, you can view individual insurance options and compare kasko packages. This way, you can go on a fully protected journey without making unnecessary payments. If you're ready, choose your car and start a summer getaway full of confidence with RentiCar!