19 Clever Rental Car Hacks to Slash Your Costs and Save Money
19 Clever Rental Car Hacks to Slash Your Costs and Save Money
Renting a car can often mean extra expenses that aren’t always clear at first. However, with these 19 clever rental car hacks, you can cut costs and save a significant amount of money. These tips range from booking strategies and insurance checks to rental location choices and car selection, all designed to keep more money in your pocket. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, these strategies will help you navigate car rentals more efficiently and economically.
1. Book in Advance
Booking your rental car in advance is a straightforward way to secure better rates. Rental companies often offer lower prices to early birds. By planning ahead and reserving your car, you can enjoy more choices in terms of vehicle availability and better pricing options compared to last-minute bookings, which often carry a premium due to decreased availability.
2. Rent Directly at Rental Place
Renting directly from the rental company can save you money by avoiding third-party fees. When you book through travel agencies or external websites, additional service charges are often included. By going straight to the rental company’s office, you can negotiate directly and potentially receive more personalized offers or discounts.
3. Use Discount Codes
Before booking a rental car, look for discount codes which can be found on travel websites, through associations, or via credit card offers. Applying these codes during the booking process can significantly reduce the cost of your rental. It pays to spend a little time searching for these codes online to get the best deal possible.
4. Join Loyalty Programs
Most major car rental companies offer loyalty programs that provide benefits such as discounts, upgrades, and special offers. By enrolling in these programs, you can earn points for each rental that can be redeemed for future discounts. Regular renters especially benefit from these programs as the rewards accumulate, leading to greater savings and perks.
5. Check for Employer Discounts
Some employers have partnerships with rental car companies and offer discounts to their employees. Check with your HR department to see if such benefits are available at your workplace. This can be a convenient way to reduce rental costs through a benefit you already have at your disposal.
6. Rent from Off-Airport Locations
Choosing a rental location away from the airport can lead to lower fees. Airport rental locations often have higher rates because of added taxes and surcharges specific to the airport. Consider renting from a location in the city, which might involve a bit more travel to pick up the car but can offer substantial savings.
7. Avoid Prepaid Gas Options
Rental companies often offer the convenience of prepaid gas, but this can be more expensive than filling up the tank yourself before returning the car. By refueling the car on your own, you only pay for the gas you use and typically at a lower cost per gallon compared to the rental company’s rate.
8. Check Your Insurance Coverage
Before opting for additional insurance from the rental company, check if your personal car insurance or credit card already covers rental cars. Many credit cards include rental car insurance as a benefit. This can save you money by avoiding duplicate coverage.
9. Use Price Comparison Websites
Using price comparison websites can help you find the best deals across multiple rental companies. Websites like Kayak or Expedia aggregate prices and options, allowing you to compare and choose based on your needs and budget. This can lead to significant savings by ensuring you’re not missing out on a better rate elsewhere.
10. Check for Hidden Fees
Be aware of hidden fees such as additional driver fees, underage driver fees, and fees for returning the car late. Reading the rental agreement carefully and asking questions can help you avoid unexpected charges and ensure you’re fully informed about the total cost of your rental.
11. Rent Smaller Cars
Opting for smaller cars is often cheaper, not just in terms of rental costs but also when it comes to fuel consumption. Compact cars are generally more economical and easier to navigate, especially in busy city settings or crowded places, making them a smart choice for travelers looking to save.
12. Utilize Membership Benefits
Memberships in organizations like AAA, AARP, or Costco often include benefits such as rental car discounts. Check your membership perks before booking a rental car, as these discounts can be substantial and easy to apply during the booking process.
13. Monitor Prices and Rebook
Car rental rates can fluctuate. After booking, keep an eye on prices and if you notice a drop, consider rebooking at the lower rate. Many rental companies allow you to cancel and rebook without fees, which means you can always take advantage of falling prices.
14. Avoid One-Way Rentals
If possible, plan your travel to return the car to the same rental location. One-way rentals often come with a hefty fee for dropping off the car at a different location. Planning a round trip can help avoid these fees and save money.
15. Pay with a Credit Card Offering Rental Perks
Using a credit card that offers perks like rental car insurance or additional discounts can be beneficial. These cards often provide valuable protections and can reduce overall rental costs through insurance coverage and other rental benefits.
16. Use Aggregator Websites
Aggregator websites such as Kayak, Skyscanner, and Expedia can be instrumental in providing competitive deals by comparing rates from various rental companies. These sites give a comprehensive view of the options available, helping you make an informed decision while saving time and money.
17. Book During Off-Peak Times
Rental prices can vary depending on the time of week or year. Generally, renting during weekdays or non-holiday periods offers lower rates as demand is typically lower. Planning your rental during these times can lead to better deals.
18. Negotiate at the Counter
Don’t hesitate to ask for discounts or complimentary upgrades when you pick up your car. Being polite and inquiring about any available offers can sometimes result in better vehicle options or additional discounts that were not advertised online.
19. Inspect the Car Thoroughly
Before leaving the rental lot, thoroughly inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure it is documented by the company. This careful inspection can prevent disputes about damages and ensure you are not held responsible for pre-existing issues when you return the car.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.