There are many ways to save when renting a car. Some tips include avoiding airport rentals; using corporate, AAA, or university codes; utilizing credit cards that offer primary coverage on rental cars; and booking early.
Resist the rental agents’ spiel about satellite radio or other extras you might not need. This could save you up to $15 per day!
Don’t Overestimate Your Needs
Renting a car for a road trip may seem expensive upfront, but it can save you money in the long run by avoiding extra wear and tear on your vehicle. Plus, it can give you a ride with more cargo room or comforts that aren’t available in your everyday car, notes Caleb Chen of The Van Life Coach.
A car rental company will likely require you to purchase insurance when you pick up the vehicle. But if you already have coverage from your primary car insurance or credit card, it’s worth asking if you can skip this cost. It’s a good idea to also check with your parent’s car insurance policy, as many of them include rental car coverage for their kids, and it could be cheaper than the rental company’s option.
Many rental companies offer the option to prepay for a full tank of gas, which can be convenient. But be aware that you will most likely pay more than if you bought the gas at a local station. And remember that you’ll have to return the vehicle with a full tank of fuel or face a charge.
The car rental company will inspect the vehicle for scratches, dents, and other damage upon your return, so make sure to look it over before you hand over the keys. Taking a few minutes to take pictures of the exterior and interior can help prevent an accidental charge for damages you didn’t cause. You can even show these photos to an employee if you’re charged for damages that weren’t your fault. If you’re cautious, some rental companies will even let you video record your inspection to avoid an argument overcharges.
Look Outside the Airport
Renting a car can be expensive and stressful. It’s also a part of travel that isn’t going away anytime soon, especially for people traveling to destinations where transit options are limited or just not available. That’s why it is important to know what sales tactics to avoid, which upsells to ignore, and how to compare prices.
When comparing prices for rental cars, make sure you do your research. Use websites like Kayak and Priceline to find quotes for various car companies. Check the fine print to see if there are any hidden fees or restrictions that would increase your costs. Also, double-check currency conversions. Some foreign-based rental company sites use fudged rates to make their prices seem cheaper than they are.
Also, beware of rental car companies that charge exorbitant fees for things you can easily bring yourself on your trip, such as GPS systems or child safety seats. It is usually much more cost-effective to bring your own devices and use them throughout your stay rather than paying the rental car company for the privilege of doing so.
Another cost-saving trick is to ask where the closest gas station is so you can fill up your car before returning it. Many rental car companies will charge you a fee to refill the tank, but if you fill up yourself beforehand, it can be much less costly. It is also a good idea to bring your toll transponder if you’ll be driving through any toll roads. The rental car industry can be full of surprises, but by being aware of these tricks and knowing what to look out for, you can keep your rentals as stress-free as possible and save money at the same time.
Shop Around
When it comes to renting a car, shopping around for the best deal is the key to saving money. Rental companies offer different prices on the same cars, and fees like mileage limits can make a big difference in the total cost. Before booking, take the time to compare rates with several rental companies and online price comparison websites.
You should also consider whether your auto insurance covers rental cars. If not, you’ll likely need to purchase a separate policy that will cover the vehicle in case of an accident. Some credit cards offer this coverage as a perk for cardholders, and some travel reward programs include rental car benefits as well.
Rental agents often try to upsell extras like GPS navigation systems and satellite radio, but you can save money by resisting these ploys. Bring your device or, if you need a GPS, use one of the many free apps that provide directions on your smartphone. If you must rent a GPS, try to avoid the “prepaid” option that includes gas, as these can be more expensive than what you’d pay at a local station.
Another way to save is to book early. According to a recent study by Nerd Wallet, those who book their rental car three days ahead of their trip are more likely to save than those who wait until the last minute.
Depending on the car you choose and how long you’re planning to rent it using your Budget Australia Promo Code, the savings can add up quickly. It can even be worth considering a longer-term rental, especially if you’re frequently traveling for work and don’t want to worry about the wear and tear on your vehicle.
Don’t Overpay for Extras
Unprecedented rates of consolidation in the industry, pricey new centralized airport rental facilities (costs that are nearly always billed back to consumers), and a business model that appears on life support all add up to one simple fact: Consumers are paying way too much for car rentals.
Car rental companies make money by selling you extras like roadside assistance and satellite radio. Resist the temptation to buy these services. Instead, bring along your GPS device or download directions via Wi-Fi before heading out. It will save you $15 per day or more. Avoiding tolls will also save you a hefty fee. And if you’re renting a car for more than one driver, skip the additional driver fee, which is typically $7 per day. Instead, use an app on your smartphone or ask friends in the area to show you the way — their services are often just as good at no cost at all.
Another thing to be on the lookout for is hidden fees like refueling charges, vehicle licensing fees, and energy recovery fees. When you pick up your rental, check your contract to be sure these are included in the total price. Otherwise, you’ll be hit with a surprise when you return the car.
If you’re planning a trip and have the time, make several bookings with different rental agencies and cancel those that don’t get your travel dates. This will help you ensure that you aren’t stuck with a car for longer than necessary when prices are low. It will also give you a chance to compare rates between the companies you’re considering, which may inspire you to make a last-minute switch to the winner.
Stay Calm
When you rent a car, it’s important to stay calm. Rental car agents are trained to make you feel anxious and use words that will scare you into spending more than you should. Recognize these tactics and resist the urge to upgrade or purchase add-ons such as GPS, child safety seats, ski racks, or additional insurance coverage. You likely already have auto insurance coverage and credit cards provide roadside assistance, so these extras are unnecessary.
Another way to stay calm is to do your research before you book. There are several metasearch engine sites and apps that will compare prices for your specific dates and locations, so you can get the best deal. These sites also have tools that can help you find hidden fees and other discounts like cash back or free days.
Before you pick up your rental, take a few minutes to perform a detailed inspection of the vehicle. Take pictures of any dents, dings, or scratches, and make sure the agent notes them on your receipt. This will minimize your risk of being hit with fictitious damage charges months after you’ve returned the car.
With the impact of COVID-19 causing rental car prices to soar, following these tips can save you a lot of money on your next vacation, especially when using your Travel Promotional Codel, And even if you aren’t going away anytime soon, renting a car can be an affordable option for your family.
Conclusion
renting a car can be a convenient and efficient way to travel, but it can also be costly if not done wisely. By following these top tips for renting a car and saving money, such as booking in advance, avoiding unnecessary add-ons, and comparing prices, you can ensure you get the best deal possible and enjoy your trip without breaking the bank. Happy travels.
