When renting a car in Antigua, you want peace of mind while exploring the island. Insurance is a key part of this. Without it, you could pay huge costs if an accident happens. Knowing the policies available will help you avoid stress and enjoy your trip. Most rental companies include third-party liability insurance at the basic rate. This only covers damage to other people or property. It does not cover the rental car itself. That is why you must learn about Collision Damage Waiver, deductibles, and optional extras. Keep reading our guide to know how car rental insurance works in Antigua before signing your agreement.
Before choosing a policy, it is important to understand why car rental insurance is essential in Antigua. The roads are narrow, traffic rules may differ from those in your home country, and even minor collisions can cost a lot. Insurance protects you from paying the car's full value if damage occurs. You are liable for repairs, replacements, and liability claims without coverage.
Some renters think they can save money by declining coverage, which leaves them at risk of bills far higher than the rental itself. In extreme cases, accidents can involve medical expenses or property damage that you must pay personally. By reviewing your options, you lower your exposure to unexpected costs.
Every car hire in Antigua includes Third Party Liability Insurance in the rate. This is required under local law and ensures you are covered if you cause an accident injuring someone or damage their property. It is the minimum legal protection, but does not extend to the rental car itself. If the rental vehicle is damaged, you are fully responsible for repairs unless you add extra protection. This can come as a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or proof of your own comprehensive insurance.
The problem is that this liability-only cover often leaves renters exposed to high excess amounts. For smaller cars, the deductible can be around US$1,000. For SUVs, it usually increases to US$1,500 or more. These costs are typically not highlighted up front but buried in the small print of the rental contract. Many renters only learn about them when a charge appears on their credit card after damage is reported.
It’s also important to note that exclusions apply even when CDW is purchased locally. Items such as windscreens, tyres, underbody damage, theft, attempted theft, and vandalism are not always covered. This means the renter is financially liable for these specific issues. Because of this, travellers often look into top-up excess policies or external providers that reimburse these costs. In short, the included insurance in Antigua is a basic liability shield, not full protection. To protect yourself against financial surprises, you must either add CDW locally, bring proof of comprehensive coverage, or use an external policy that clearly lists Antigua and Barbuda in its terms.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is the most common insurance add-on in Antigua. It is not technically insurance, but a waiver the rental company offers to reduce your financial liability if the car is damaged. Without CDW, you would be responsible for paying the full value of the rental vehicle in the event of an accident.
In Antigua, CDW is not automatically included in the rental rate. The daily cost usually ranges from US$10 to US$20, depending on the type of car and the level of coverage. Each vehicle category also carries a deductible, the portion you must pay even with CDW in place. For sedans, the deductible is about US$1,500. For compact, mid-size, and standard SUVs or vans, it rises to US$2,000. For a full-size SUV, the deductible can reach US$3,000. These amounts are charged directly to your credit card if damage occurs.
Common exclusions include windscreens, tyres, underbody damage, towing costs, and theft. If you rely on a third-party excess policy or credit card coverage instead of the local CDW, the rental company will still charge the repair costs to your credit card first. You must then seek reimbursement from the external provider. It’s recommended to combine local CDW with a top-up policy that reimburses deductibles and covers excluded items. In practice, CDW in Antigua should be a core but limited protection. It reduces liability for most vehicle damage but always leaves some costs with the renter.
Before finalising your booking, you should also look at additional protections. These can reduce gaps left by the basic cover and CDW.
There are three main approaches to covering your car rental in Antigua. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
Driving without insurance in Antigua is strongly discouraged. Without cover, you are liable for the full cost of the car, third-party damages, and other expenses. In serious accidents, this could include medical bills and property claims. Some visitors are tempted to decline all coverage to save money. However, one accident can cost more than the total holiday budget. In extreme cases, you could face financial claims that last long after your trip. It is always better to secure the best insurance for car hire in Antigua than to take such risks. Remember these pointswhen choosing rental car insurance:
When you drive in Antigua, always protect yourself with the right insurance. Knowing about liability cover, CDW, and deductibles keeps you safe from surprise costs and helps you enjoy the island without stress. With this knowledge, you can focus on the fun part of your trip instead of worrying about accidents or hidden fees. For peace of mind on the road, rent a car in Antigua with Final Rentals. Final Rentals offer affordable rental deals with airport pick-up. Booking online is fast and easy, so you can start your Antigua adventure when you land at V.C. Bird International Airport.
