With rising gas prices, driving causes
more headaches than it used to. When
traveling, though, you may need to rely
on a car rental. There are ways to save
money if you plan well. Next time you're
looking for a quality, affordable car
rental, consider the following:
1. A
car rental at the airport sometimes
costs more than at a nearby agency.
Compare prices ahead of time; it may be
worth taking a taxi a few miles to pick
up the vehicle at a different rental
location.
2. Choose a no-frills car rental.
Many less-luxurious cars get better
mileage.
3. Car rental agencies usually have
better deals on compact cars. If you
don't need the space, why pay for it?
Compact cars also get better mileage.
4. A car rental is usually more
costly if you pick up the vehicle at one
location and drop it off at another.
However, consider the price of returning
to the original locale. Is it cheaper to
pay for the gas or for the drop-off?
This might sway your decision a little.
5. Car rental agencies offer prepaid
fill-ups when you return the vehicle.
Compare their costs with the gas pump
prices and decide ahead of time which is
a better deal.
6. A weekly car rental usually costs
less than paying for five or six days
alone. If you're staying just under a
week, you may want to pay this rate and
return the car early.
7. Avoid purchasing insurance from
the car rental company if possible. Many
credit cards cover car rental insurance;
in the event of collision or theft
you'll be taken care of. Check your
credit card agreement ahead of time.
8. Save the extra driver cost by
choosing a designated driver. Some car
rental agencies charge more to add a
driver.
9. Look for car rental coupons in
travel magazines or an Entertainment
book. Agencies also give discounts to
AAA and AARP members. Be sure to inquire
about available deals.
Keeping these factors in mind before
your car rental, you can save a
substantial amount of money. Shop
wisely, and know before you go!
