Where Can You Find a Cheap Rental Car?

It seems as if cheap rental car prices are becoming harder and harder to find in this present age. It’s only natural since insurance costs are rising, and because traffic accidents always seem to be on the rise. What can you do to help find an inexpensive car rental? First of all, always book your car rental weeks in advance. Last minute car rentals are always going to be more expensive. If you book your reservation online you may even be able to find a coupon that will further reduce your price.

Aim for the weekdays as much as possible, as weekend rentals in peak season are going to be high, no matter what other options you find. Stick to economy class travel and limit all of the extra features. One of the most expensive features to look out for is the cost of insurance. Unless you are breaking the law, you probably already have liability coverage on your vehicle. Legally speaking, this is all you need to drive. However, the rental company will offer you the chance to purchase more insurance. (Why not? Hey, if you’re paying them, they’re going to keep asking for more!)

You do not need this type of insurance, but then again paying a few extra dollars a day is much less expensive than owing thousands of dollars on a totaled rental car. If you waive this insurance then you are taking responsibility for its condition upon return. One avenue to pursue is finding out if you have rental insurance with your current insurance provider or credit card company.

Beware of taxes and airport surcharges. Actually, you’re better off avoiding the airport altogether if possible, since airport rental services always manage to tack on higher fees. Airport-exclusive costs are said to be as much as 10% of the total bill. Also, carefully weigh your gasoline options. Some companies charge extra for returning a car on an empty tank. However, sometimes the price of refilling is actually higher than it would be to purchase a full tank of gas. Compare prices here and choose the most economic option. Also, beware of going over the set mileage. Check the contract and ensure that you have unlimited mileage and the right to drive out of state, if need be.

Renting a car can be expensive, but if you judiciously spend and check out all of your options from multiple sources then you can find a good deal.