So, you’re planning to rent a Tesla for your next trip—awesome choice!
Whether you’re looking for a sleek, eco-friendly ride or just want to experience the future of driving, renting a Tesla is a great way to elevate your road trip. But before you hit the road, there are a few things you should know to make the experience smoother, more enjoyable, and less stressful.
Here are five important tips to keep in mind when renting a Tesla to help you make the most of your trip:
1. Get Familiar with the Charging Network before you rent a tesla
One of the most important things to consider when renting a Tesla is charging. Unlike traditional gas-powered cars, Teslas need to be plugged in to recharge, and while that’s easy to manage, it requires a little planning. Fortunately, Tesla has one of the largest and most reliable charging networks in the world—the Supercharger network.
Before you hit the road, make sure to download the Tesla app or use the in-car navigation system to locate nearby Supercharger stations along your route. Most Teslas will even show you how much time it will take to recharge at each station, so you can plan your stops efficiently.
Pro tip: Try to keep your Tesla’s battery level above 20% when you’re on the road, just to give yourself plenty of range between charges. Also, check your rental provider’s policies to see if they offer any specific charging tips or even provide a charging card to make payments at charging stations easier.
Once our customer told us:
-Our Customer
On my first long-distance road trip in a rented Tesla Model 3, I quickly learned the importance of planning my charging stops. I was driving from Calgary to Vancouver and wasn’t fully aware of how extensive the Tesla Supercharger network is in Canada. At first, I was a bit nervous about finding charging stations on the way, but the Tesla navigation system made everything incredibly easy. It showed me all the Supercharger stations along the route, along with their real-time availability. I plugged in for about 30-40 minutes at each stop, and before I knew it, I was back on the road.
Tip: Before you embark on your journey, check out the Tesla app or the in-car map to locate Superchargers. Make sure you have a plan for how long your stops will take, and keep an eye on your battery level so you don’t get caught off guard.
2. Don’t Stress About Range—Plan Your Stops
Tesla vehicles are known for their impressive range, especially the Model S and Model 3, which can go over 300 miles on a full charge. However, range anxiety can still happen, especially if you’re driving through areas with fewer charging stations.
The best way to alleviate this? Plan your charging stops ahead of time. Before you hit the road, input your destination into the Tesla’s navigation system, and it will automatically suggest the best places to charge along the way. It’ll even help you plan your driving speed and route to ensure that you have enough juice to get to the next Supercharger.
If you’re renting for a longer trip or planning to venture into remote areas, always double-check the route for available charging stations, and remember to top up your battery whenever you can.
3. Get Comfortable with the Tech
Tesla’s interior is packed with cutting-edge technology, and it can feel like you’re driving a spaceship rather than a regular car! From the large touchscreen that controls almost everything to the advanced Autopilot features, there’s a bit of a learning curve if it’s your first time behind the wheel of a Tesla.
To make sure you’re not overwhelmed while driving, take some time before you start your journey to get familiar with the controls. Spend a few minutes playing around with the infotainment system, adjust your seat and mirrors using the digital controls, and test out features like Autopilot, Lane Assist, and the Regenerative Braking mode. The more comfortable you are with the car’s features, the more enjoyable your trip will be.
If you’re not familiar with how Autopilot works, remember that it’s an advanced driver assistance system, but you still need to pay attention and be ready to take control at any moment. It’s not a fully autonomous driving system, so always keep your hands on the wheel and stay alert.
4. Know the Charging Etiquette
Charging a Tesla is pretty simple, but there are some etiquette tips you’ll want to be aware of to keep things running smoothly for everyone. When you pull up to a Supercharger station, be sure to park in a designated Tesla charging spot and keep the charger cable organized. Many charging stations are busy, especially during peak travel times, so if your Tesla is fully charged and you’re done, don’t overstay your welcome—move the car once it’s charged to free up space for others.
Also, while charging is typically fast at Superchargers, try to avoid charging your car to 100% unless you really need the full range. Charging to 80% is usually sufficient for most trips and can help reduce wait times at busy stations.
5. People Rent a tesla to enjoy a surreal experience !
Last but certainly not least—enjoy the experience! Teslas are known for their smooth and quiet ride, with instant acceleration that’s a thrill to experience, especially if you’ve never driven an electric vehicle before. Whether you’re driving through city streets or cruising on the highway, the driving experience in a Tesla is unlike anything else.
If you’re not used to electric cars, the immediate torque from the electric motor might surprise you. Tesla’s acceleration is incredibly smooth, so be prepared for a fun (and often fast) ride. Plus, the Autopilot features can take a lot of the stress out of long highway drives by gently steering, braking, and maintaining speed. But always remember, your full attention is still required—Autopilot is a helpful assistant, but you are still in charge of the car.
If you’re a fan of tech, you’ll love the futuristic vibe inside the car, from the minimalist design to the large central touchscreen that controls nearly everything in the car. You can even play games or watch videos on the screen while charging. (Just make sure to keep your eyes on the road when driving!)
Final Thoughts: Rent Smart, Drive Smart
Renting a Tesla can be one of the most exciting, environmentally-friendly, and comfortable ways to travel, but it does come with a unique set of considerations. From understanding how to charge it properly to getting the most out of its high-tech features, a little preparation can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.
Before you rent your Tesla, make sure you’re comfortable with how it operates, plan your charging stops, and don’t forget to take in the smooth, powerful ride that makes driving a Tesla so much fun.
With these five tips in mind, you’re all set for a smooth, hassle-free road trip in your rental Tesla. Enjoy the drive, and remember: It’s not just about getting from point A to point B, it’s about enjoying the journey in a car that’s truly ahead of its time.
When it comes to renting a Tesla or any other vehicle, you want to make sure you’re getting the best experience possible—and that’s exactly what Mr. Rent A Car offers. Whether you’re looking for a brand-new Tesla, a hybrid car, or a traditional gasoline vehicle, we have a wide selection to fit your needs.
