Find the Best Cheap Car Rental Deals | Saving Tips

Finding the Best Deals on Rental Cars

Renting a car can be an expensive endeavor, especially if you don't know where to look for the best deals. With some research and planning ahead, you can find cheap rental cars that fit your budget and transportation needs.

Compare Rates at Aggregator Websites

Aggregator websites like Expedia, Priceline, and Kayak allow you to compare rental car rates across various providers in one place. This saves you time instead of checking individual rental company websites. You can filter by pickup location, drop-off location, vehicle type, rental dates, and more to find the best match.

These aggregators often have exclusive discounts and coupon codes you won't find booking directly. And their price match guarantees ensure you get the lowest price they can offer.

Check Travel Agency Packages

Before booking a rental car, check packages on travel agency websites like Travelocity and Orbitz. They negotiate cheaper rates and discounts with major rental brands to bundle into vacation packages.

Even if you're not booking flights or hotels, standalone rental car rates are often cheaper than the rental company's direct prices. Travel agents also provide more flexibility to change or cancel reservations if your plans fall through.

Join Rental Company Loyalty Programs

Sign up for free membership programs like Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, Enterprise Plus, or Budget Fastbreak. As a member, you can earn free rental days, priority service, and exclusive deals on car rentals.

Loyalty programs offer the best discounts for frequent renters. But even occasional renters gain perks like skipping rental counter lines or free upgrades that make renting cheaper and more convenient.

Tips for Finding Cheap Rental Cars

Beyond comparing prices across rental companies, there are several effective ways to lower costs on your next car rental.

Avoid Airport Locations

It's convenient to pick up a rental at the airport when you land, but you'll pay higher taxes and fees. Off-airport rental locations just a shuttle ride away offer savings up to 30%. The extra minutes to reach these locations pay off.

Join Discount Clubs

Membership programs like Costco, AAA, AARP, USAA, and others offer cheap car rental rates for members. Even after paying membership fees, the exclusive discounts often yield over 10% in rental savings.

Look for Deals and Coupons

Check rental company websites regularly for special offers and discounted rates. Sign up for email alerts so you never miss a sale. And search for promo codes on coupon sites before booking.

Rent for Longer Periods

Daily rental rates tend to decrease the longer you book. Weeklong rentals cost less per day than renting for only two or three days. Even adding an extra day can lower your daily rate. Just avoid keeping the car longer than needed to maximize savings.

Important Tips for Renting

To make sure you get the best deal when renting a car, keep these last tips in mind:

Reserve Early

Book your rental car as soon as you confirm travel dates. Prices almost always go up the longer you wait. Last-minute rentals will carry the highest rates.

Understand Fees

Read the fine print to avoid surprise add-ons for taxes, airport surcharges, or equipment like child seats or GPS. Factor these costs when comparing rental prices.

Inspect at Pickup

Check for prior damage before driving off the lot and point out any issues to counter staff. This protects you from being charged for damage you didn't cause.

Finding cheap rental cars just requires knowing where to look and early planning. With minimal effort, you can save a substantial amount over paying full rental rates. Follow these tips to keep more money in your wallet for other travel expenses.