Cheap 1-Day Car Insurance in 2025 [10 Most-Affordable Companies]

The best options for cheap 1-day car insurance are Travelers, Geico, and Nationwide, with Travelers rates starting as low as $41 per month. 

Travelers is the top pick overall, offering the most competitive rates, flexible coverage, and excellent customer service for short-term drivers. 

Our Top 10 Company Picks: Cheap One-Day Car Insurance

Geico and Nationwide are also among the cheapest car insurance companies, with Geico making it easy to sign up online and Nationwide offering great customer support. Whether you’re borrowing a car, renting, or test-driving, these companies give you the best value for one-day car insurance.

Our free online comparison tool allows you to compare cheap car insurance quotes instantly. Just enter your ZIP code to get started.

#1 – Travelers: Top Overall Pick

Pros

• Comprehensive Coverage: Travelers offers comprehensive coverage options for cheap one-day car insurance, giving you solid protection when you need it.
• Lowest Minimum Coverage Rates: Travelers offer the most affordable minimum coverage for cheap one-day car insurance at just $41 per month.
• Financial Strength: Travelers have an A++ rating from A.M. Best, which shows that they are financially strong and reliable options for cheap one-day car insurance.

Cons

• Limited Customization: Travelers’ cheap one-day car insurance may not let you customize your coverage as much as some other companies do.
• Discount Restrictions: Some discounts may not apply to cheap one-day car insurance policies, limiting savings. Read this Travelers car insurance review.

#2 – Geico: Best for Vanishing Deductible

Pros

• Vanishing Deductible Perks: Geico’s cheap one-day car insurance allows policyholders to lower deductibles over time. 
• Affordable Minimum Coverage: Geico provides competitive minimum coverage at $42 monthly for cheap one-day car insurance. 
• Top Financial Rating: With an A++ A.M. Best rating, Geico ensures strong financial stability when buying cheap one-day car insurance.

Cons

• Limited Local Agents: Geico primarily operates online, which may limit in-person support. Visit the Geico car insurance review for more information.
• Fewer Coverage Add-Ons: Geico offers fewer customization options for cheap one-day car insurance compared to competitors.

#3 – Nationwide: Best for Cost Savings

Pros

• Affordable Pricing: Nationwide makes saving on one-day car insurance easier so you can stick to your budget without worry.
• Affordable Option: Nationwide makes it easy with a one-day car insurance plan that starts at just $43 a month. Get more info in Nationwide car insurance review.
• Strong Financial Standing: Nationwide’s A+ rating from A.M. Best shows that it is financially solid, so you can feel confident that your one-day car insurance is in good hands.

Cons

• Fewer Discounts: Nationwide doesn’t offer as many discounts on one-day car insurance compared to some other companies.
• Limited Short-Term Policy Options: Some policy features may be more beneficial for long-term coverage rather than cheap one-day car insurance.

#4 – The Hartford: Best for Safe Drivers

Pros

• Safe Driving Benefits: The Hartford rewards safe drivers with discounts on cheap one-day car insurance policies. The Hartford car insurance review covers more info.
• Affordable Minimum Coverage: The Hartford gives you basic coverage for $44 a month, offering an affordable option for one-day car insurance.
• Reputable Insurance Provider: Holding an A+ A.M. Best rating, The Hartford is a reliable choice for cheap one-day car insurance.

Cons

• Limited Availability: The Hartford’s cheap one-day car insurance may not be available in all states.
• Strict Eligibility Requirements: Some discounts and benefits may only apply to certain drivers.

#5 – American Family: Best for Claims Service

Pros

• Top-Tier Claims Support: The American Family is known for making claims easy, especially with one-day car insurance.
• Competitive Minimum Coverage Rate: American Family offers minimum coverage at $47 monthly for one-day car insurance.
• Solid Financial Strength: American Family’s A rating from A.M. Best provides security when getting cheap one-day car insurance.

Cons

• Limited Online Tools: American Family’s online resources for managing 1-day car insurance may not be as robust as competitors.
• Higher Premiums: One-day car insurance premiums for some policyholders may be slightly higher. Learn more in this American Family car insurance review.

#6 – Allstate: Best for Customized Policies

Pros

• Flexible Coverage Options: Allstate has flexible and affordable one-day car insurance, so you can get coverage that fits your needs.
• Reliable Rate: Allstate makes it easy to get basic coverage for just $51 a month, giving you an affordable way to grab one-day car insurance that meets the minimum requirements.
• Strong Financial Standing: With an A+ rating from A.M. Best, Allstate is a financially stable insurer offering cheap one-day car insurance.

Cons

• Higher Premium Costs: Allstate’s one-day car insurance rates may be slightly higher than its competitors. Need more info? Read this Allstate car insurance review.
• Limited Availability: Not all drivers may qualify for Allstate’s temporary insurance options, as eligibility varies by state and policy type.

#7 – State Farm: Best for Good Students

Pros

• Good Student Discounts: State Farm gives awesome discounts for students, so it’s a great option if you’re a young driver looking for affordable one-day car insurance.
• Competitive Rate: State Farm has one-day car insurance starting at just $52 per month, making it a great budget-friendly choice for short-term coverage.
• Broad Availability: According to our State Farm Car Insurance Review, it has a large network, making it easy to get affordable one-day car insurance wherever you are. 

Cons

• Lower Financial Rating: With a B rating from A.M. Best, State Farm has lower financial strength than its top competitors for cheap one-day car insurance.
• Limited Short-Term Flexibility: State Farm’s policy options may not be as tailored to short-term needs.

#8 – Farmers: Best for Family Plans

Pros

• Family Plan Discounts: Farmers offers discounts to help make one-day car insurance more budget-friendly for families with more than one driver.
• Competitive Rate: Farmers offers one-day car insurance starting at $62 a month, a simple and budget-friendly short-term option.
• Established Insurance Provider: Farmers has an A rating from A.M. Best, so it’s a trusted choice if you’re looking for cheap one-day car insurance.

Cons

• Higher Base Rates: Farmers tend to charge more for their minimum rates compared to other companies offering cheap one-day car insurance.
• Limited Digital Tools: Farmers lack strong online tools for managing 1-day car insurance. Read this Farmers car insurance review for more details.

#9 – Progressive: Best for Loyalty Rewards

Pros

• Loyalty Perks: Progressive offers long-time customers discounts on one-day car insurance to reward them for staying with them.
• Competitive Rates: Progressive offers cheap one-day car insurance starting at $63 monthly.
• A+ Financial Rating: Progressive has an A+ rating from A.M. Best, which shows they are stable and reliable, even for cheap one-day car insurance.

Cons

• Higher Rates for Short-Term Policies: Progressive’s one-day car insurance policies may cost more.
• Discount Restrictions: Some discounts only apply to long-term policies, limiting savings on one-day car insurance. For more details, visit our Progressive car insurance review.

#10 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Add-Ons

Pros

• Comprehensive Add-On Options: Liberty Mutual lets you add affordable extras to your one-day car insurance.
• Reliable Minimum Coverage: Liberty Mutual offers basic coverage starting at only $65 per month, which can be a great choice if you need one-day car insurance.
• Strong Financial Backing: Liberty Mutual, with its solid A rating from A.M. Best, is a reliable option for one-day car insurance.

Cons

• Higher Base Premiums: Liberty Mutual usually has higher rates than some other options for one-day car insurance. Find more details in this Liberty Mutual car insurance review.
• Limited Discounts: Some discounts might not be available for one-day car insurance, which could mean lower savings.

Getting One-Day Car Insurance the Right Way

Most insurance companies do not offer true one-day car insurance, and those that provide temporary coverage typically require a minimum policy term of 30 days. If you only need coverage for a short period, you may need to explore alternatives like non-owner insurance or rental car coverage.

One-Day Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Coverage Level

If you plan to drive occasionally throughout the year, a regular policy might actually save you more than buying short-term coverage each time. Plus, a standard policy gives you better all-around protection, making sure you’re covered for any damages and meeting state requirements.

Car insurance rates vary based on factors like age, driving history, and location, which means your costs may be lower or higher than the average. Comparing car insurance rates by state from multiple insurers can help you find the best deal for your specific situation.

People Who Benefit from Temporary Car Insurance

Temporary car insurance is useful when borrowing a car from family or friends, ensuring you’re covered in case of an accident. It also helps when test-driving a car, especially from a private seller who may not have insurance.

Rental car insurance can be costly, but if you lack a personal policy, the rental company’s plan might be necessary. Short-term coverage also helps if you’re between policies or still comparing insurance providers.

While temporary insurance offers flexibility, it’s usually more expensive per day than a standard policy. If you’ll be driving for more than 30 days, a traditional plan is often the better choice. Learn how car insurance works.

Understanding Temporary Insurance vs. One-Day Insurance Costs

Temporary car insurance is perfect if you need coverage for a short time, like a day. A one-day policy usually runs between $10 and $30, depending on your age, where you live, and what kind of car you drive.

This type of coverage is ideal for situations where a long-term policy isn’t necessary, offering flexibility without commitment. Whether borrowing a car or needing insurance for a short trip, one-day car insurance ensures you’re covered without paying for months of unused protection. Discover where to get cheap full coverage car insurance.

Temporary Car Insurance Goes Beyond the Basics

Temporary car insurance provides flexible coverage options to meet short-term needs, such as 24-hour, 1-week, or 30-day policies.

The Scott Brothers are always talking sense. Protect your stuff your way today! https://t.co/0Q754BZ7mB pic.twitter.com/yeQUEDIjNj

— American Family Insurance (@amfam) September 29, 2023

This coverage is ideal for situations like borrowing a car or driving occasionally, and they offer more specific protection than regular long-term policies. Learn how to lower your car insurance costs.

Types of Temporary Auto Insurance

Temporary auto insurance gives you flexible coverage for different amounts of time, like 1-week, 24-hour, or 30-day policies.

A 1-week policy works well for short trips or if you only need coverage for a few days, while 24-hour insurance is perfect for one-time events or a single day of protection. If you need insurance for a month, 30-day coverage offers a middle ground between short-term and traditional policies.

Read more: Why You Need Car Insurance

Discounts on One-Day Car Insurance

One-day car insurance is useful when you need coverage for a short time, like taking a test drive, borrowing a car, or driving a rental. It protects you in case something goes wrong while you’re behind the wheel.

Car Insurance Discounts From the Top Providers of One-Day Car Insurance

Some companies may also offer discounts if you have a good driving record or bundle coverage with other policies. This kind of insurance is great for people who need quick protection without signing up for a long-term plan.

Read more: Where can I get cheap full coverage car insurance?

Consequences of Driving Without Car Insurance

Driving without car insurance can lead to serious financial and legal consequences. Most states require drivers to have at least basic coverage, and getting caught without insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

More importantly, if you’re in an accident, you could be personally responsible for all damages, which may cost thousands of dollars out of pocket.

Even if you only need coverage for a short time, temporary car insurance is a better option than risking the consequences of driving uninsured. With many providers offering flexible policies, it’s easy to find short-term coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Read more: Best Dollar-a-Day Car Insurance

Case Studies: Real Drivers Saving with Cheap One-Day Car Insurance

Finding cheap one-day car insurance can be challenging, but some drivers have found affordable short-term coverage with top providers. Here are three real examples of how Travelers, Geico, and Nationwide helped drivers secure flexible, low-cost insurance for their temporary needs.

Case study #1: Travelers Helped Jake Get Quick Coverage for a Weekend Trip

Jake, 32, needed car insurance for a weekend trip with a rental car. He didn’t have his own policy and wanted something affordable for just a few days. Travelers gave him a short-term plan for $41 that covered both liability and damage. Their friendly customer service made it easy, and he was covered in minutes.

Case Study #2: Geico Gave Lisa an Affordable Policy for Borrowing a Car

Lisa, 27, borrowed her friend’s car for the day but realized their insurance didn’t cover her. She got a one-day policy from Geico for $41, so she didn’t have to stress about it. It was simple and fast and gave her peace of mind while she drove.

Case study #3: Nationwide Covered Mark While Test-Driving a Private Sale Vehicle

Mark, 45, was buying a used car from a private seller and needed insurance to take it for a test drive. He went with Nationwide, which made it easy to get a one-day policy for $41. With proof of coverage, he took the car for a spin without stress and felt good about his decision.

You can get cheap one-day car insurance from companies like Travelers, Geico, and Nationwide. Whether you are renting, borrowing, or test-driving a car, these companies give you simple coverage without making you sign up for a long-term plan. Learn more about the different types of car insurance coverage.

The Best Ways to Get Cheap One-Day Car Insurance

So, why do you need car insurance? Getting cheap one-day car insurance can be tough since most companies do not offer true one-day policies. However, Travelers, Geico, and Nationwide have affordable short-term options that work well for rentals, borrowing a car, or test drives. These companies make it easy to get quick coverage without locking into a long-term plan.

Even though one-day insurance is flexible, it often costs more per day than a regular policy. If you need coverage more than once, a standard plan could save you more money over time. No matter what, comparing quotes from different companies is the best way to find the lowest price. 

Our free online comparison tool allows you to compare cheap 1-day car insurance quotes instantly. Just enter your ZIP code to get started.