Plans change — maybe you've fallen in love with El Salvador's beaches and want to stay longer, or your business trip got extended. Whatever the reason, Sicarro makes it easy to extend your rental period. Here's how.
💡 Tip: Request your extension as early as possible. The sooner you ask, the more likely the supplier can accommodate your request.
How to Request a Rental Extension
Extending your rental is a straightforward process that requires supplier approval:
- Log in to your Sicarro account and go to your active booking
- Select "Request Extension" from the booking options
- Choose your new return date — select how many additional days you need
- Review the extension cost — the additional charge is calculated and displayed
- Submit your request — the supplier is notified immediately
- Wait for approval — the supplier will accept or decline your request
- Pay for the extension once approved
When to Request an Extension
Timing matters when requesting an extension:
- Best: 48+ hours before your scheduled return — gives the supplier time to adjust their calendar
- Good: 24 hours before return — still reasonable notice
- Risky: Same day as return — the supplier may already have the car booked for someone else
- Not recommended: After your return time has passed — this counts as a late return and incurs fees
⚠️ Important: An extension request is not automatically approved. Always wait for supplier confirmation before assuming you can keep the car longer.
Step-by-Step Extension Process
Step 1: Contact the Supplier
Send a message through Sicarro's messaging system explaining:
- How many extra days you need
- Your new preferred return date and time
- The reason for the extension (optional, but helps build goodwill)
Step 2: Submit the Extension Request
Use the formal extension request through your booking page. This creates an official record and triggers the payment process.
Step 3: Await Supplier Response
The supplier typically responds within a few hours. They'll check:
- Whether the car is booked by someone else after your current return date
- Whether they're comfortable extending the rental
- Whether any pricing adjustments are needed
Step 4: Confirm and Pay
Once the supplier approves, you'll receive a payment request for the additional days. Pay using your original payment method or choose a new one.
Step 5: Updated Confirmation
After payment, you'll receive an updated booking confirmation with the new return date. Your rental agreement is automatically updated.
Pricing for Extensions
Extension pricing works as follows:
- Standard daily rate: Extensions are typically charged at the same daily rate as your original booking
- Rate changes: In some cases, the supplier may offer a different rate for the extension period (e.g., if your extension moves into a peak period)
- Multi-day discounts: If the extension makes your total rental qualify for a weekly or monthly discount, the supplier may apply a reduced rate
- Service fee: Sicarro's service fee applies to the extension amount
The exact cost is shown before you confirm the extension, so you always know what you'll pay.
Supplier Approval
Extensions require the supplier's approval because:
- The car may already be reserved for another renter
- The supplier may need the vehicle for personal use or maintenance
- Insurance or registration considerations may apply
Most suppliers are happy to approve extensions when possible, as it means continued income. However, approval is not guaranteed.
What If the Supplier Declines?
If the supplier can't extend your rental:
- Return the car on time: Comply with your original return date to avoid late fees
- Book a new rental: Search Sicarro for available vehicles for the dates you need. You may find the same or a similar car from another supplier
- Contact Sicarro support: We can help you find alternative vehicles if you're having difficulty
- Plan ahead: If you think you might need a longer rental, consider booking more days upfront — you can always return early
Payment for the Extension
Payment details for your extension:
- Same payment method: By default, the extension is charged to the same method as your original booking
- Different method: You can choose a different payment method at the time of the extension
- Immediate charge: Payment is processed when you confirm the extension
- Security deposit: Your existing deposit typically remains in place for the extended period — no additional deposit is required unless the supplier specifies otherwise
Insurance During Extension
Your insurance coverage extends with your rental:
- The basic insurance included with your Sicarro rental continues to cover you during the extension period
- No additional insurance purchase is necessary
- Coverage terms remain the same as your original booking
✅ Good to know: Your insurance coverage automatically extends for the approved extension period. You don't need to do anything extra.
Communication Tips
To increase your chances of getting an extension approved:
- Be polite and clear in your request
- Explain how many extra days you need (don't leave it vague)
- Ask early — don't wait until the last minute
- Be understanding if the supplier declines — they may have other commitments
- If the car has been well-maintained during your rental, mention it — suppliers are more likely to extend for responsible renters
