15 Ways How to save money on your next car rental – Smart Tips
Renting a car can be a major convenience when traveling, but the costs can quickly add up if you’re not careful. However, with a few smart strategies, you can significantly reduce the expense and enjoy a smoother, more budget-friendly experience. Here are some of the best ways to save money on your next car rental:
1. Book in Advance
One of the simplest ways to save money is to book your rental car in advance. Like flight prices, rental rates tend to increase as your pickup date approaches. Booking early allows you to lock in lower prices and gives you access to a wider variety of vehicles.
- Tip: Monitor prices even after booking. Many rental companies allow free cancellation, so if rates drop, you can always rebook at the lower price.
2. Avoid Airport Rentals
While renting a car at the airport may seem convenient, it’s often more expensive due to additional fees and taxes. Airport locations charge higher rates because they pass on costs associated with operating in high-traffic areas.
- Tip: Consider renting from an off-airport location. A short ride in a taxi or public transport can result in significant savings.
3. Compare Prices from Different Providers
Not all car rental companies offer the same rates. Use comparison websites or apps to browse multiple providers and see the differences in pricing. Kayak, Skyscanner, and Rentalcars.com are great platforms to compare options quickly.
- Tip: Don’t rely solely on aggregators. Once you find the best deal, check the company’s official website—sometimes, direct bookings offer lower rates or special discounts.
4. Look for Discount Codes and Membership Deals
Many car rental companies offer discounts through partnerships with other organizations, credit card companies, or loyalty programs. Look for discount codes online, or check if your memberships (like AAA, Costco, or airline loyalty programs) offer rental car discounts.
- Tip: Also check coupon sites like RetailMeNot or Honey for any available promo codes.
5. Choose the Right Car Size
While a luxury SUV or convertible might seem like a fun choice, smaller cars are typically more affordable. Opting for a compact or economy car can save you not only on rental fees but also on gas, especially if you’re driving long distances.
- Tip: Be realistic about the car size you need. Don’t rent a larger vehicle than necessary just for the extra space if you won’t use it.
6. Skip the Extras
Rental companies often offer a variety of add-ons such as GPS, car seats, and toll passes, which can quickly add up to your total cost. Most smartphones have GPS, so you can easily navigate using Google Maps or Apple Maps, and it’s usually more cost-effective to bring your own child safety seat.
- Tip: Consider using a credit card that offers rental insurance as a perk, so you don’t have to purchase the expensive coverage from the rental company.
7. Avoid Prepaid Gas Options
When renting a car, many companies will offer you a prepaid fuel option, allowing you to return the vehicle without refilling the tank. While this may sound convenient, it’s almost always more expensive than filling up at a local gas station yourself.
- Tip: Opt for the “full-to-full” fuel policy, meaning you pick up and return the car with a full tank. This allows you to refuel at your discretion and save on overpriced gas charges.
8. Check Your Insurance Coverage
Before paying for additional insurance from the rental company, check your personal auto insurance and credit card benefits. Many people are already covered through their own insurance or have rental car insurance as a credit card perk.
- Tip: Verify what your insurance covers so you don’t spend extra on redundant coverage.
9. Rent for Longer Periods (If It Makes Sense)
Surprisingly, renting for a longer period can sometimes be cheaper than a shorter rental. Many car rental companies offer discounts for weekly rentals, so even if you need a car for just a few days, it might be worth renting for a full week.
- Tip: Check the price differences for daily, weekly, and even weekend rates, and choose the most cost-effective option.
Car rental companies are known for sneaking in extra charges like late return fees, additional driver fees, or charges for returning the car to a different location. Make sure to read the fine print to avoid any surprises.
- Tip: Always clarify what fees are included in your rental agreement. Some companies charge hefty fees for extras like additional drivers, so if only one person will be driving, make sure the contract reflects that.
11. Return the Car on Time
Late returns often come with additional fees, which can drastically inflate your total bill. Make sure to return the car on time to avoid unnecessary penalties.
- Tip: Some companies offer a short grace period (15-30 minutes), but it’s better not to push it and risk getting charged for an extra day.
12. Use Credit Card Rewards or Points
Many credit cards allow you to redeem points for car rentals, which can result in substantial savings or even a free rental. If you travel frequently, using a rewards card that offers travel perks can help you save on rentals.
- Tip: Check your card’s rewards program for offers on car rentals, and book directly through the card’s travel portal if the rates are competitive.
13. Avoid One-Way Rentals
One-way rentals (picking up the car at one location and returning it to another) often come with higher fees. If possible, plan your trip to return the car to the same location to save money.
- Tip: If you need a one-way rental, shop around, as some companies may waive or reduce these fees depending on the route.
14. Consider Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing
Services like Turo and Getaround allow you to rent cars directly from individuals, often at lower prices than traditional car rental companies. These platforms can offer more flexibility and competitive rates, especially in popular tourist destinations.
- Tip: Always check the car’s reviews and the owner’s profile to ensure a smooth rental experience.
15. Sign Up for Loyalty Programs
Most car rental companies offer free loyalty programs that allow you to accumulate points for future rentals, earn upgrades, and receive exclusive discounts. Signing up could also lead to perks like faster check-in and priority service.
- Tip: Even if you don’t rent cars often, enrolling in a loyalty program can still result in savings on the occasional trip.
Conclusion
Renting a car doesn’t have to break the bank. By being mindful of booking strategies, avoiding unnecessary extras, and taking advantage of discounts and loyalty programs, you can easily save money on your next car rental. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, these tips will help you get the best deal possible without sacrificing convenience or comfort.
