Do your research before you rent a car. Look up everything you can ahead of time, from cancellation policies to additional driver charges. The better prepared you are, the more likely you are to find the best price wherever you land, from
Here are nine hacks to help get you started on your quest for lower rental rates.
1. Avoid airport pickups
When it comes to convenience, airport rentals can't be beat. Major companies like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Alamo have rental locations just steps from the arrivals gate, making them irresistible to weary travelers. Just be warned that convenience comes at a high price.
You can often find a lower rate with smaller rental car companies in town, especially if you book in advance. In addition to offering a better price, these companies are usually willing to provide a shuttle pick-up from the airport. If you had a rough flight, take a deep breath and try to put it behind you: patience is the key to saving money!
3. Use a credit card that offers rental car insurance coverage
The best travel credit cards come packed with perks. For example, did you know your travel rewards might include free rental car insurance?
It’s true! If you pay for a rental vehicle with your credit card, you might qualify for a loss and collision damage waiver (LDW/CDW). If the rental car is stolen or damaged in an accident, an LDW/CDW will prevent the rental car company from seeking damages from you. Decline any waivers offered at the counter and you’ll avoid a hefty daily fee.
No matter how excited you get at the savings, don’t forget to read the fine print! The insurance coverage offered by your travel or rewards credit card probably doesn’t include
members with Alamo and Enterprise. Check for promotions even if you don’t carry a card or pay an annual fee; some car rental companies offer lower rates for military members, students, or first responders.
Package deals don’t just offer cheap flights, but cheap car rental prices as well. Buying a bundle will allow you to book everything at once and pick up an airport rental from a major company like Enterprise, Hertz, or Avis. The downside is that you won’t have as much flexibility when it comes to dates, drop-offs, and cancellations.
makes it easy to find lower rates. Autoslash allows you to search by location, type of car, and pick-up and drop-off dates. You can even search for AAA, AARP, and other discounts!
MORE:How to get a car rental discount code
7. Fill’er up!
It’s best to return your rental car with a full tank of gas. Car rental companies have taken to hiding surcharges for empty fuel tanks in the fine print of the rental agreement.
for the rental vehicle, save all your gas receipts, and ask plenty of questions. Some car rental companies stipulate that you must use a pump close to the rental location.
Don’t want to worry about rental rates and rental car insurance? Don’t rent a car! We’re not trying to be glib: traveling on foot, by bus, or on a bike can provide more fun and less stress.
For example, if you plan to stay within the city limits, you don’t
or any other place with good public transportation. Even if you have a late night out, you can catch a ride with Lyft or Uber—you’ll save money and you won’t have to find a parking spot.
had a super simple app that was easy to navigate. And their terrific customer service made everything even easier. Plus I saved $700 in a single year.” —Lucia M.
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds
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FAQs
How much does a rental car cost?
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The average rental car costs $30 per day. The day fees for rental car insurance can easily increase your rental rates by $1-$30, not to mention the surcharges for any damages or missing fuel.
Before you drive a rental car out of the garage, make sure to check it out, take pictures, and bring any dents or scratches to the attention of the car rental company. This will help you
What’s the easiest way to reduce the cost of renting a car?
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The easiest way to reduce the cost of renting a car is to plan your trip ahead of time. Consider whether you can save money by using public transportation, discount codes, or alternative services, like car rentals from