Renting a Vehicle

For me it's worth the extra gas money to have more space. But if you want to do the Edge, have the 14 year old sit up front for more leg room and less complaining. I'm assuming the 4 year old is still in a carseat, so I would make sure that there is still enough room in the back of the Edge with the Carseat. We have a Honda CRV that sits 5, but with the size of my daughter car seat in the back, we can still have 2 others back there, but it's tight and could be a problem on a long trip.

You may also want to check to see if there are any specials. I know a lot of rental car companies offer a free upgrade. So you would save the upgrade cost but the gas would still be an issue. You should go with the bigger vehicle if you want to have a nice trip with no complaints. No one wants to be cramped on a long road trip. You may also want to look into the GMC line of autos that are hybrids - that MAY help you save on gas and give you the extra room you need.

I would definitely go for the vehicle with more room. There is nothing worse than being cramped for a LONG ride.

I think the extra $15/day will be worth it once you get the larger, heavier and newer vehicle on the highway. The new Explorers are smooth as glass and quiet, too. And all of you will enjoy the extra elbow room. However, I am not convinced that your all you luggage will fit in the back of the Explorer with the third seat in place. And three kids will not ride peacefully in the back seat all the way to the Land of Lincoln. Have you thought about a passenger van from Capps?

Are you stuck w/renting from the one company that is out of minivans? Wondering if you'd be able to find one w/another company??? Do you have AAA??

Why not check a different car rental place. They might have mini-vans.

I'd take the bigger vehicle. Family time in the car together needs to be comfy.