When it comes to a road trip the most difficult decision is determining which car rental company to choose. When researching the companies, they may initially appear to all be the same, but depending on what's important to you they can be very different. Most of us are looking for the best deal, which means low prices. There are several ways to get great deals and using the Ms. Travelpolitan travel search engine, you can compare rental rates.
Some things to consider that could reduce your rental rates are:
- Pick-Up/Drop-Off location - Rates are cheaper if you pick up and drop off at the same location, but also if a company has an off-airport location that is near the airport, those are sometimes cheaper and they offer shuttle pick up from the airport.
- Online reservations - Most companies offer Internet specials, meaning that if you reserve online rather than calling or stopping in, you can get discounted rates. (Alamo even offers a 10% discount if you pre-pay for your rental instead of paying when you return the car).
- Specials and Last Minute Deals - Before securing your reservation, be sure to check the Deals and Specials link on the company's site for extra savings.
- Insurance - Does your credit card company cover the insurance for your rental if you pay with that card? Read the benefits of your credit card to see if this is an option, which will save you extra bucks at the counter.
Vehicles are generally classed by size and capacity, so you may see similarities across the board for the compact, mid-size and full-size options. The difference is when you are in the mood for luxury, sport or hybrid car. First of all, the car rental company's version of luxury might not be the same as yours, so be sure to check out the models they offer in their luxury line. The same goes for the sports cars and SUVs. We found both Alamo and Hertz offers hybrids. In areas with High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) restrictions, sometimes hybrid cars are permitted to ride in HOV lanes. Budget and Enterprise offers cars equipped for persons with disabilities.
Are there other tools or luxuries you want in your car? Navigation devices, XM/Sirius radio, child safety seats, ski racks, or toll pass devices are available for an extra charge.
Finally, don't forget about your points/miles! Make sure the company you are renting from participates in the rewards programs that you do and collect those points. Sometimes it's worth signing up with the rental company's rewards program to receive coupons and privileges if you are a frequent renter. This usually allows you to bypass the long line and get expedited service at the counter. Dollar offers free membership to this service, while most others offer it at a charge.
There's a lot to consider when choosing your car rental company, so make sure to get what you want out of it and always DRIVE SAFE!
