How do you rent a car or use a hotel room without having a credit card?

Question

I just got out of college and am now out on my own.

I do not believe in carry ANY debt, and so I do not use credit cards or take out loans for anything. Incase you're wondering, I had a full scholarship and my family saved up during my entire life to help me out with college if I needed it.

Anywho, my wife and I are trying to go away on vacation and I can't seem to rent a car without a credit card. I was also told tht all hotels require a credit card on file in the case of incidental expenses, such as damaged room or phone calls from the room.

Has it become impossible to travel anywhere in the US without incurring debt?

I know Mormons don't like to incur debt either, but I don't know how they do this.

Please help.

Answer 1

Welcome to reality.  That is why credit cards are necessary.  You don't have to "incur debt" just because you have a credit card.  Use it wisely and pay off the full balance when you are billed.

Answer 2

Src50, and Karmenda are correct.  Your choice credit card, debit card, or pre-paid credit card w/Visa-Masercard.

Answer 3

try to offer them a extra cash deposit

Answer 4

No credit card? Not a problem!  I do not own credit cards either, as I believe they can only sink you in the long run.  What you can do though, is to get a checking account.  Almost all checking accounts now come with a free debit card.  This debit card works just like a credit card, except it subtracts money from your bank account when you use it, it doesn't give you "credit" that you have to pay back later.  You will notice that your debit card has a visa or Mastercard logo on the bottom right hand corner.  That means you are able to use the card where ever visa and mastercard are accepted, including rental car companies.  

If you are pressed for time and can't wait for a debit card to be mailed to you, you can go to any bank and get a pre-paid Mastercard.  These work the same way as a debit, with the acception that they are not tied to a bank account.  You simply tell the bank employee how much money you would like to load your prepaid mastercard with, and they will put the funds on that card.  Its simple, and there are no finance charges or accruing interest to worry about like credit cards do.  Good luck!