# The Excitement of the Rental Car Lottery: How to Score Your Dream Ride
## The Thrill of the Unknown
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of discovering which car you’ll be driving on your next vacation. When I booked my rental car through Avis, the reservation promised a “Ford Edge or similar.” However, upon arriving at Houston Intercontinental Airport, I was pleasantly surprised to be handed the keys to a **Jeep Wrangler 4xe**—a plug-in hybrid that was a far cry from the expected SUV. This unexpected upgrade was all thanks to the phrase “or similar.”
## Understanding the “Or Similar” Clause
When booking a rental vehicle, the term “or similar” carries significant weight. Rental companies boast an extensive fleet of vehicles, often providing a familiar example to set expectations. However, the reality at the rental counter can be quite different. More often than not, the car you receive may not resemble the model you had in mind at all.
This element of surprise is what makes the moment of approaching the rental desk one of the most exciting parts of any trip. Having family in the U.S., I’ve had my fair share of experiences at the Houston airport, and I’ve hit the jackpot more times than I can count.
## Memorable Rentals and Unforgettable Experiences
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe was undoubtedly a highlight, especially in Texas, where the weather is perfect for enjoying an open-air ride. On another occasion, I was thrilled to drive a **Dodge Charger**, which roared to life with its 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine—though I won’t mention the less-than-stellar fuel economy.
Then there was the time I found myself behind the wheel of a **Fiat 500**. While it was a fun little car, navigating through a state known for its love of massive pickup trucks was a bit daunting. At traffic lights, drivers of **Ford F-150s** could literally look down at me, but I managed to leave them in the dust when it came to cornering.
## Finding Joy in the Mundane
Of course, not every rental will be a showstopper. For every thrilling ride, there are plenty of more ordinary vehicles. Yet, even these can help you appreciate models you might typically overlook. For instance, I’ve developed a fondness for the first-generation **Kia Soul** after renting one.
During my previous career as a motorsport journalist, I had a blast covering the Ulster Rally in a **Peugeot 1007** and enjoyed navigating the narrow roads of the Isle of Man in a **Ford Ka**. These experiences taught me that even the most unassuming cars can provide memorable adventures.
## The Shift Towards Choice
Not everyone is a fan of leaving their car selection to chance. Many rental companies now offer the option to book specific vehicles for an additional fee, and some even have loyalty programs that allow you to choose your car in advance. While this may seem like a win for consumer choice, it takes away some of the excitement that comes with the unpredictable nature of the rental car lottery.
## Embrace the Adventure
My advice? Embrace the chaos of the rental car experience. Relish the thrill of those two magical words: “or similar.” You never know what kind of adventure awaits you behind the wheel of your next rental car. Whether it’s a rugged Jeep, a powerful Dodge, or even a quirky Fiat, the journey is what truly matters. Happy travels!