GETTING THE BEST CAR RENTAL
Depending on the region you are visiting, you may or may not require a
car rental. Many locations use more mass transit and in those areas a
car rental may not be necessary at all. In many regions, public
transportation is the means that people use to get around and also there
are many vacation hot spots that provide a lot of public transportation
for the convenience of their guests. If you choose to rent a car,
however, there are some things that you should know about getting the
best deal.
RESEARCHING RENTAL RATES
The best place to begin looking for a car rental is your home computer. There are many car rental sites on the web and there are also a lot of travel websites that allow you to compare prices. Most car rental companies have their own sites as well, so be sure to check into all your options before creating your reservation. Many sites allow you to switch cars and change dates and this can be helpful in finding the best vehicle at the best possible rate.
Be sure that if you find a good rate on a travel site that you also check directly on that company's site to find out if you can get a better rate by reserving it directly with them. You will find that some companies will offer you an additional discount for reserving your vehicle directly from them.
DISCOUNTS AND COUPONS
In addition to finding the best daily rate, there are other discounts that you may be eligible for. Many companies offer discounts to senior citizens, AARP members, corporate discounts and also discounts to auto club members. There are also now some companies offering frequent rental cards that offer you discounts if you use their services more often. In addition to these options you can also find coupons which are readily available for these companies and many are just virtual coupons which mean nothing is really needed to get the discount, just a code at the time of reservation. If you don't have any coupons for car rentals than be sure to check with friends and relatives and check online; honestly, you can usually find a coupon for a car rental company if you are looking for one. Be aware however, that having a coupon doesn't mean that will offer you the best rate, so be sure to shop around to all the companies out there, and also be sure to ask them if they have any promotions or specials running. Many times they have these things available but are not allowed to offer them to you unless you ask them.
TIPS TO SAVING MONEY ON YOUR RENTAL
- Don’t take the extra insurance…Make sure your regular insurance will cover it
- Ask the what if questions… What if I go over on mileage? What if I bring the car back late?
- Choose the smallest car possible…Save on gas & rental fees
- Return the tank full
- Look over vehicle thoroughly for any damage and make sure it is noted on the rental agreement before you drive off the premises
Remember that saving money on your car rental can allow you more freedom and spending money while you travel. Keeping your travel simple and inexpensive will allow you to pick up and go more often.