How to Save Money on Car Rental

Sep 17
07:19

2009

David Stack

David Stack

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Are you going to be renting a car for a business trip or leisure getaway? Are you under the misconception that car rental rates do not vary at all? Here's a secret: it is actually possible to save money with car rental expenses - provided, of course, that you heed the advice on how to lower them. We'll list plenty of tips, from where to rent and from whom as well as how convenient it is to use car rental discount codes.

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Are you going to be renting a car for a business trip or leisure getaway? Are you under the misconception that car rental rates do not vary at all? Here's a secret: it is actually possible to save money with car rental expenses - provided,How to Save Money on Car Rental Articles of course, that you heed the advice on how to lower them. Below we'll list plenty of tips, from where to rent and from whom as well as how convenient it is to use car rental discount codes.

Avoid airport rentals. Instead, find an independent agency that is nearby yet is located off the airport, for it's bound to offer you lower rates and fewer extra charges and fees. It would also be better and more practical to rent a car from your hotel (if you're on a business trip): that way, you steer clear of expensive taxes and fees.

Shop around online. Get a good idea of what the available rates are and compare prices before finalizing any bookings. While rates vary according to availability of vehicle, location, hours of an agency's operation, and other factors, the cheaper way to go is always online. Look at the official websites of agencies or at a booking engine like Travelocity, which offer Travelocity discount codes which you can use to slash anywhere from 5 to 20 percent of your rental expenses. Also conduct an online research on any special discounts, privileges, and promos which you can take advantage of.

Choose the smallest car appropriate for your use. Reserve the smallest model, the cheapest one, if you are a lone traveler looking to save money on rentals and on gas. Decline "free" upgrades to bigger cars than compacts if you know that you really don't need the extra space - besides, even if you move up to two car categories free of charge, the cost you will have to pay on gas will still be ridiculous.

Beware of price quirks and hidden fees. Sales taxes, arena fees, vehicle license fees, etc.: these may be the words that you will find in fine print of the terms and conditions page, along with the additional cost that you have to pay on top of the price that the car agency has advertised. What you once thought as a nice rate can quickly turn into a very expensive one. So read the details of the rental deal before finalizing anything. Understand the agency's insurance policy: sometimes the offer simply the same coverage as the one in your own insurance policy. Before signing up for a car rental, contact your agent first to verify coverage.

Inquire about special offers. Several companies have special privileges which loyal customers in their program - or members in certain national organizations such as AAA - can use. There is also a plethora of frequent flier programs, credit card loyalty promos, and Travelocity discount codes which might make you eligible for discounts, cheaper rates, and other money-saving privileges. So it's worth going around and checking the deals before committing on the car you will rent, and from whom.