Do you really need car rental insurance?

It depends on your auto insurance policy and the state you live in. It also depends on why you rent the car (is it because your car is disabled or for a vacation?). In some cases, a vehicle you rent can be considered a substitute auto and covered under your policy, but usually not if you are renting for holiday or vacation purposes. In any case, you would pay the deductible. Call your insurance company for information. In some cases, a gold credit card covers a rental, but you say you don't have one. If you are not sure that you are covered elsewhere, you are safest to purchase the insurance on the rental car. You have to consider not only damages that might result to the rental car from an accident but your liability for injuries and lawsuits that could spring from an accident. It's not worth the harm you do to your future.

If you have current full coverage auto insurance you don't need the rental places policy. Your current policy will follow you. Alot of car rental places try to talk you into buying the extra coverage so they can make the extra money. If you have a current policy with just liability it may be cheaper for you to call your agent and add the comp and collision, then drop it back down to liability when you return your rental car. Make sure to stop by your agents office and get proof that you have full coverage to show the rental agency.