Tourists are slowly coming back to Maui after the devastating fires of 2023. The number of visitors has reduced significantly when compared to the first half of the year. Maui businesses and residents can benefit from a return to normal. In addition to car rentals recovering, other main segments of the visitor industry include — hotels, resorts, airlines, restaurants, shops, and attractions are no longer dealing with COVID-related issues.
From 2020 to 2022, one crucial segment lagged behind, rental cars.
A hodgepodge of interrelated matters has slowed the rental car business from bouncing back in Maui and other notable leisure travel destinations, and there appears to be no significant rehabilitation on the horizon.
The nation’s largest car rental corporations sold too many cars in 2020 to cushion the financial blows amid widespread COVID-19 travel restrictions. Now they can’t buy enough replacements principally due to car production delays.
Consequently, many tourists in Maui are dishing out considerable amounts to rent the relatively few vehicles available from recognized and alternative rental firms, which tie prices to supply and demand. In fact, some visitors have turned to public transportation, ride-sharing, and unconventional rentals, including moving vans and privately held vehicles. And in other instances, would-be customers have opted not to come to the islands.
Tourism officials have said Hawaii’s shortage is worst on Maui. Recently on Maui, the lowest-priced cars at the airport from major rental firms were higher than they’ve ever been.
The supply has improved slightly for 2023. We have been fortunate to have an ample supply for most travel dates. However, we recommend securing a car rental before getting lodging and airline tickets. There is no obligation to book early and return to check rates as your trip approaches. If rates drop, they often do; reserve at the lower rate and cancel your higher-priced rental.
Check car rental rates for Maui today!
– The Maui News
“Maui Airports District Manager Marvin Moniz estimated that rental car companies shipped about 3,000 cars back to the Mainland and also sold some vehicles.”
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