Discount Rental Car Deals

Here are some options you should double check before making your reservation.

Typically, rental companies offer 'unlimited' mileage for online reservations. If you'll be doing a lot of driving, make sure you have this option. Otherwise, your rental could be more expensive than you bargained for.

Also, make sure the rate you are quoted is good for the length of your rental. Occasionally, your quoted rate is a weekend rate that could expire before the end of your rental. After that, your rate can increase — sometimes to almost twice your original quote. Read the 'fine print' to make sure you understand what your daily rate is.

Always check the location of your rental. An off airport location may mean that you'll have to take a shuttle bus from the airport to the car company's rental location; sometimes several miles away. Nearly every company offers a free shuttle, but you may find it more convenient to rent from a company at the airport. But sometimes you can avoid certain taxes like airport tax by renting from a off-airport location.

Car Rental Tips

It is not a good idea to blindly rent a car without doing some research first. You could end up paying more.

Right Rental Car Company

Before you commit to a rental company, do your research...use the internet, shop around, look at several different places and check with differentcar car rental agencies to see who can give you the best car deals. Make sure to ask about any special weekend or weekly rates. If your plans happen to be flexible, you may be able to save some money if you rent during a price break period. Also ask about possible blackout dates when the advertised price you may have seen is not offered.

Sometimes car rental agencies have hidden charges that can increase the base rate by a significant amount. Some of these charges may include Collision Damage Waiver fees (in certain states), damage deposits, airport surcharges, fuel charges, drop off fees, mileage fees, taxes, additional driver fees, younger driver fees, out of state charges and equipment rental fees. It is always a good idea to ask about the cost of these extra fees before making the reservation.