3 steps to follow if you lose your rental car keys

Lost rental car keys? Learn what to do next and how to manage the situation:

• The rental company may be able to remotely unlock the car or arrange for a tow truck or locksmith.
• You can call a locksmith or roadside assistance yourself if you aren’t covered by the rental company’s extended services.
• Learn tips to avoid losing your keys.

Losing the keys to your rental car while traveling can feel like a major setback, but there are several ways to get back on the road with minimal impact on your plans. Depending on the rental car company, your rental agreement, and your insurance, a few options are available to you. If you find yourself locked out or with lost rental car keys, these are the steps you can take.

1. Check your rental agreement

First of all, stay calm and check your rental agreement to see what happens if you lose a rental car key. Depending on your situation, you may have to pay for replacement keys, towing the car, or admin fees. If you opted for extended roadside assistance service, lost keys might be covered, so it’s important to assess where you stand first.

2. Call the rental car company

If something goes wrong while renting a car, inform the rental company as soon as possible. Call their roadside assistance number and they’ll help you out with your available options. Depending on the vehicle, they might be able to remotely unlock or even start your car, and direct you to the nearest rental location. If not, they can arrange for a locksmith or a towing service if you’re stranded on the road. Some companies have spare keys to certain car models stored in a central location that they can send over to you.

3. Evaluate your other options

If you aren’t covered by the rental car company’s additional services, or their roadside assistance is more expensive or time-consuming than you anticipated, there are still some options to consider. While most car insurance or credit card insurance won’t cover replacement keys, it can’t hurt to check – especially if you have more comprehensive coverage. If there’s a car dealership or rental location nearby, try your luck there. It might also be cheaper or faster to call a locksmith or third-party roadside assistance yourself.

Tips to avoid losing rental car keys

The best way to save yourself the rental car key replacement cost and hassle is to avoid losing them in the first place. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth rental experience.

Keep them in the same spot

Making a habit of always keeping your keys in the same spot will not only save you time, but also reduce the chance of losing them. It can be a hook or bowl at home, or a designated person’s bag or pocket when you’re out and about.

Attach them to a keychain

Make your keys harder to lose with a big keychain or lanyard – ideally something that’s noticeable if left behind on a table and makes a sound when dropped. This will also make it easier for you to spot your keys when rummaging through a bag or leaving a hotel room.

Get a Bluetooth tracker

Investing in a Bluetooth tracking device will go a long way toward your peace of mind. These small devices can be attached to commonly misplaced things like keys and phones, and you can quickly check where they are on a dedicated app.