15 Hidden Tips for Scoring the Best Deals on Car Rentals

Insider Strategies for Finding the Cheapest Rental Car

When it comes to renting a car, timing is crucial. You may stumble upon a decent rate, but if you delay to find an even better price, that golden opportunity might slip through your fingers. Fortunately, there are strategic methods to ensure you land the best deal possible. Here are 15 insider strategies that can help you navigate the rental car landscape and potentially even qualify for an upgrade.

Search with Membership Sites

One of the smartest places to start your search is through membership sites like Costco Travel and AAA. Although they require a paid membership, the costs can be offset if you frequently rent cars. These organizations leverage their extensive customer base to negotiate better rates with rental companies. For instance, Costco Travel often beats major players like Budget and Avis on price, while AAA frequently offers discounts on Hertz rentals.

Check Your Airline Programs

Don’t forget to utilize your frequent flyer programs. Airlines often have partnerships with car rental companies, which can unlock discounts or added bonuses such as extra points. For example, Delta’s collaboration with Hertz allows travelers to earn up to eight miles per dollar spent. Just keep in mind that there may be booking stipulations, such as requiring you to rent exclusively from airline partners.

Search Third-Party Discount Sites

If you’re flexible about which rental agency you’ll use, check out "opaque" sites like Priceline and Hotwire. These platforms offer significant discounts but don’t disclose the rental company until after you booked. By casting a wide net, you have a better chance of finding a competitive rate—sometimes, even the best-kept secrets are found in these hidden corners of the internet.

Compare with the Direct Booking Rate

When you’re set on a particular rental company, visit their official website before booking through third-party sites. You may be surprised to discover better rates or exclusive offers available for direct bookings. Not only could you save money, but booking directly may also allow you to earn loyalty points more effectively.

Try a Car-Sharing Alternative

Why not consider peer-to-peer car-sharing services like Getaround or Turo? These platforms allow you to rent cars directly from owners, often at competitive rates. This option not only gives you access to a variety of vehicles but also enhances the likelihood of reading reviews for the exact car you’ll drive. If traditional rentals make you uneasy, services like Zipcar offer membership-based access with the instant booking functionality.

Check for Transfercars

Rental companies often need cars moved from one location to another, creating an opportunity for budget-conscious travelers. Transfercar connects you with vehicles that need to be relocated, charging only insurance and gas. This could mean a road trip at a fraction of the usual cost, allowing you to explore along the way without spending a fortune on a rental.

Try the Two-Minute Trick

For the patient among you, the two-minute trick is worth trying. After initially booking your rental car, set a reminder to check back weekly for rate drops. If you find a new, lower price, cancel your original reservation and rebook at the better rate. Just ensure your rental company has favorable cancellation policies.

Look for Coupons

Before finalizing your booking, check whether any coupons or discounts are available. Websites like AutoSlash.com can help you find applicable coupons based on your travel dates and any memberships you hold. This simple step can yield additional savings and give you more wiggle room in your travel budget.

Get a Manual Transmission

If you’re traveling internationally, consider renting a manual transmission car. These are generally more common outside of North America and may save you a significant amount since automatic options can be pricier due to lower availability. If you’re unfamiliar with driving stick, it might be worth learning, especially for travelers looking to save.

Avoid Insurance Potholes

Before you rent, it’s crucial to understand your insurance coverage. Many credit cards or existing auto insurance policies might cover rental vehicles. This can save you additional daily fees charged by rental companies for supplementary insurance. Remember to bring proof of your coverage as many rental agencies require it now.

Try Not to Rent at the Airport

Renting a car from the airport usually comes with higher taxes and fees. Consider off-airport rental locations where rates can be up to 20% lower. If you can manage to take a taxi or public transit to reach a rental agency in the city, you could save significantly, depending on your travel destination.

Look Out for Junk Fees

Be aware of extra fees that rental agencies may charge, often referred to as junk fees. These can include charges for GPS devices, toll transponders, or satellite radio. To avoid unnecessary costs, use your smartphone for navigation and bring any personal accessories you might need during your trip.

Compare Rates Throughout the Week

Sometimes, it pays to be flexible with your rental period. Occasionally, renting a car for an entire week might be cheaper than a shorter rental. By checking rates for longer rentals and then returning the vehicle earlier, you may save considerable amounts, provided you confirm that the agency won’t impose early return fees.

Book the Smallest Car Possible

Rental companies often overbook, which could work to your advantage. By reserving the smallest car available, you increase your chances of being upgraded to a larger vehicle at no extra charge. Just ensure that the smallest car will comfortably fit your travel group and luggage.

Set a Designated Driver

If your travel group plans on sharing driving responsibilities, be mindful of potential fees for additional drivers. These can range from $10 to $20 per day. To keep costs down, designate one driver but remember the legal implications if someone else opts to drive, as this could expose you to significant liability.

By implementing these strategies, you’ll significantly increase your chances of saving money on rental cars, allowing for a smoother travel experience that aligns with your budget. Happy travels!