Renting a car is not glamorous. So there’s no reason to spend a lot on it. In fact, nothing feels as good as figuring out how to get full service while paying less. Here are some rental hacks that will help you save.
Better Rates After Booking
You can reserve a car without prepaying. This means you can cancel or change the reservation too. Set up alerts to get notified about cheaper rates.
Coupon Codes
Check the rental agency website for discount codes. Do a google search for that company’s coupon codes too. You could save up to 30%.
Check Rates on Multiple Versions of The Site
While renting a car in a different country, check the agency’s local version and your home country’s version of their site. Sometimes, the local site is significantly cheaper. Check credit card fees, though.
Group Memberships
You could get discounts if you’re a member of AAA, AARP, Costco, BJ’s, or USAA. But also check if better offers are available.
Book a Package
Bundle your car rental into a package with your flight and/or hotel. The total cost of booking each separately is higher than when you book it all as a package.
One-Way Free Rental
One-way car rentals are very expensive. But check Trasfercar, which wants the vehicles to be taken to a different location. If you’re willing to drive, you can get a vehicle for really cheap rates or even free.
Loyalty Program
If you have a favorite car rental company or two, join their loyalty programs. You get benefits like skipping the line, access to members-only deals, airline and hotel partnership deals, and more.
Credit Card Benefits
Most people don’t realize that their credit cards offer free car rental insurance. All you have to do is pay for the insurance with your credit card. Check the terms and conditions to check how the insurance works before traveling.
Inspection Photos or Videos
Take photos and videos of the interior and exterior of the rental car and report these issues to a staffer as soon as you see them. Don’t let them charge you for things you didn’t do.
