While travelling to any foreign country or going on a cross-country road trip, renting a car can be a convenient way to explore. However, the costs can quickly add up, leaving many people searching for ways to save money. Are there time and money saving tips besides looking out for mileage and fuelling up before returning?
Fortunately, with some smart strategies and planning, you can secure a rental car at a more affordable rate. In this guide, we’ll cover tips and tricks on how to save on car rentals. Let’s find out how to get cheaper rental car for your next road trip!
How to get cheaper rental car? Follow these tips and save on rental car-
When searching for a rental car, timing can be crucial; while you might come across a reasonable rate, waiting too long for a better deal could mean losing out on the opportunity altogether.
Booking your rental car well in advance is one of the most effective ways to save money. As the rental date approaches, prices often increase due to high demand, especially during peak travel seasons like summer, holiday seasons, and long weekends.
Car rental companies like Enterprise and Budget operate limited fleets, and they need to estimate demand several weeks in advance in order to have a car ready for you when you step off your flight.
By reserving early, you can lock in a lower rate and have a wider selection of vehicles to choose from.
2. Compare Prices Across Multiple Platforms Also With Direct Booking
Before settling on a rental car, use comparison websites and apps to check prices across multiple rental companies. Although brands like Dollar and Budget are often associated with discounts, they aren’t always the most affordable options.
Websites like Kayak, Expedia, Priceline, and AutoSlash aggregate deals from various providers, making it easy to find the best rate.
AutoSlash is a complimentary platform designed to help you secure the best car rental deals. By entering your rental details and any applicable discounts (like AAA membership), the site compares rates from various companies and applies relevant coupon codes. This streamlines the process of price comparison.
There is another type of comparison you can do, after selecting a specific car rental company, check its official website for prices before paying through third-party platforms. Booking directly can sometimes be more affordable, and you can also earn points through the company’s membership program. This approach ensures you’ve considered all options to save money.
3. Look for Discounts and Promo Codes
Take advantage of discounts, promo codes, and memberships. Some ways to find these include:
- Signing up for email newsletters from rental companies.
- Searching for promo codes on websites like RetailMeNot.
- Use of corporate code, university or alumni code.
- Checking if memberships like AAA, AARP, Costco, or military discounts apply.
4. Be Flexible with Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
The cost of renting a car can differ greatly based on the location. For instance, renting a car at an airport is often more expensive due to added fees and surcharges. Instead, consider renting from an off-airport location.
Renting a car in town can help you avoid airport pickup taxes and fees, often leading to significant savings. This is especially true for rentals where you pick up the car in town and drop it off at the airport.
However, there are some disadvantages to in-town rentals. In-town locations usually have fewer vehicles available, which can be inconvenient if your preferred car is unavailable and may limit your options for upgrades.
Moreover, picking up a rental in the town and returning it to the airport at the end of your trip might incur one-way fees or higher daily rates, which can sometimes be quite steep. Ensure you carefully compare prices to avoid overpaying.
If you’re flexible with your pick-up and drop-off points, you may find better deals. Choose wisely!!!
5. Avoid Add-Ons and Extras
Rental companies often upsell add-ons like GPS navigation, child seats, or toll passes. While these can be convenient, they come at a premium.
Instead:
- Use your smartphone or personal Garmin navigator for GPS navigation.
- Bring your own child seat if you’re travelling with kids.
- Bring your own toll pass or check if the tolls accept cash or card payments, because rental companies often charge high convenience fees for using their toll passes.
- Check if your credit card or insurance policy already covers tolls or other extras.
6. Check Your Insurance Coverage
7. Choose the Right Vehicle Size
8. Be Aware of Hidden Fees
Always read the fine print to avoid hidden fees that can inflate your total cost.
Watch out for charges such as:
- Young driver fees (for renters under 25).
- Additional driver fees: Be aware that adding each additional driver to the reservation may result in extra fees. Be careful not to let the other person drive other than designated driver. If they do, you could face significant consequences, if they involved in an accident or caught speeding.
- Late return fees.
- Cleaning fees for returning the car excessively dirty. Understanding these fees upfront can help you make informed decisions and negotiate if necessary.
- Inspect the car before driving off: Before leaving the lot, inspect the car for any existing damage and report it to the rental company. Taking photos or videos of the vehicle can protect you from being charged for pre-existing issues.
9. Avoid Prepaying for Gas
Rental companies may offer a prepay fuel option, but it’s often more expensive than refuelling the car yourself.
Most rental car companies don’t provide refunds for unused fuel, so it is only worthwhile if you expect to use most of the tank. Think about how likely it is that your tank will be almost empty when you return.
Instead, choose option to fill up the tank at a local gas station before returning the car. Make sure to check the fuel policy in advance to avoid extra charges.
10. Understand Mileage Restrictions
11. Opt for Weekly Rentals
12. Time Your Rental Strategically
13. Leverage Loyalty Programs
14. Bundle Rentals with Travel Packages
15. Check for Price Drops
Keep monitoring prices even after booking your rental car. Some websites offer price tracking and alerts, notifying you if the price drops after your booking. Services like AutoSlash can track your booking by applying coupons, discount codes, and membership-related discounts and notify you of better deals.
Some rental companies allow free cancellations, enabling you to re-book at a lower rate if prices drop.
16. Consider Alternative Rental Options
In addition to traditional rental companies, consider alternatives like:
- Turo: A peer-to-peer car-sharing platform where you rent directly from car owners, who fix the price and mileage limits.
- Zipcar: A membership-based, car-sharing service ideal for short-term rentals, lets you book cars instantly, billable by the minute, hour or day.
- Car subscription services: Some companies offer flexible monthly plans that might be more cost-effective for extended needs.
Conclusion
Renting a car doesn’t have to break the bank. By planning ahead, comparing prices, and avoiding unnecessary extras, you can save money and enjoy a stress-free rental experience. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, these tips will help you make the most of your budget and hit the road with confidence.
Happy rentals!
