Traveling to another continent means relying on the continent's means of transportation to go around -- which is why train, bus and domestic flight ticket booking apps are quite famous with most independent travelers nowadays. Car rentals -- although not certainly cheaper -- offer a private ride just like the one travelers might have at home and these five are the best if one is in America.

The more updated the vehicle, the more pricey it is, but the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic is worth considering given its safety rating and fuel efficiency. Fuel efficiency is a primary selling point for car rental vehicles. According to NY Times, renters are required to return the car with a full tank of gas. While it is impossible to remain topped after refueling the car as one heads to the rental company, fuel efficiency helps reduce that "gray area" the Times discusses at length.

When renting mid-sized vehicles, Christian Science Monitor advises to get a Nissan Altima rather than the usual Chrysler 200. It said the Chrysler 200 is a "confused" sort of vehicle with a cramped interior. The 2017 Nissan Altima it recommends is roomy for traveling families -- especially those seated in the rear. If not for families, then the Nissan Altima is for travelers with many things to carry around.

For the best in fuel efficiency in a compact car, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is a better mid-sized vehicle choice. Inventory in most car rental companies run out of Camry's because of its comforts, silence and fuel economy of over 38 miles per gallon.

For off-road rides, the Jeep Grand Cherokee was made for rugged and supposedly impassable terain. Highly rated by off-road aficionados, the Grand Cherokee is perfect for campers and rugged vacations with four-wheel drive setups, a touchscreen infotainment dashboard ,and even WiFi capabilities.

For those who only need a city-drive with plenty of things to carry around along with their family or group of friends, the Kia Sorento is an excellent choice. While its fuel economy does not constitute a better say against the Toyota Camry Hybrid, the Sorento is good enough to go on long drives. The comfortable and luxuriously-styled interior and great suspension makes this SUV a great private travel ride.