The rental
car business survives for one reason: people can't drive
their personally owned vehicles everywhere. It's a simple premise; you
arrive at a foreign location, likely too far to drive and you need a
car rental to either explore or get to where you need to go.
The process by which you actually rent a car has grown exceedingly
simple also but there are many things to keep in mind in efforts to
save time and money. In addition, with soaring oil prices, the
advantages of driving long distances for vacation are growing less and
less, thus making the freedom that comes with renting a car very
attractive.
Without further delay, here is a Top 10 List of Tips to remember when
exploring car rental options.
1. Will Surf for Money
There are opportunities to save money through online car
rental coupon codes. These codes are continually changing and
offer discounts (usually 5-10%) to return customers, flight attendants,
business groups, military persons and just about everyone else—it's
just a matter of finding the coupon code that works for you.
2. Single Location Company equals Limited Protection
It is better to rent with a car rental company with locations in multiple states than some localized auto renters.
3. Full Tank of Gas
Rental car companies will provide you with two options for the
fuel. First, you can purchase the fuel up front and return
the vehicle with whatever fuel is left over. Choose this
option to save time and gain convenience. Second, you can
return the vehicle with the same amount of fuel with which you received
it. If you don't, you may run into costly penalties.
4. Leave it the way you found it
When returning a rental car, make sure it is clean. Also, make sure
you've removed all personal belongings. Trash, dirt and damages can
result in additional charges. Also, it can be easier than one might
think to leave cell phones, computers or other personal belongings
hanging around.
5. Confirm
Ask for a confirmation number (or write it down from online) and have
it with you when you pick up a your car. For airport rentals, give the
customer service representative your flight number and scheduled
arrival time. If the flight is delayed the car rental reservation will
be held.
6. Early Bird gets the Worm (Best Deals!)
Typically the earlier you book anything, whether it be a flight,
sporting even or car rental—it results in a reduced rate. Planning
ahead is always a good thing and it usually saves money.
7. Membership
Most large companies offer club membership, which often results in a
yearly fee, which often results in perks, privileges and big savings.
If you are someone who rents a car multiple times a year, than
considering membership options is a good idea.
8. Weekly vs. Weekday
If you think you may rent a car for more than five days, than sign up
for that plan. This could result in pricing cut in half. So, a daily
rental could be $55 a day, while a daily rental could be $30 a day.
Some people will make the mistake of a daily rental for 7 days, which
is a huge mistake.
9. Full Inspection
When first renting a car, make sure you accurately gage the mileage and
pre-existing damage that may already exist. If you find damage, be sure
to tell the rental agent of the found damage so they can report it.
10. Upsell and Upgrade
Just for clarification purposes let's first establish that all
updgrades are upsells and all upsells are upgrades. Whether it is a
child safety seat or GPS navigation system, it may not be
necessary by law (or maybe it is) but it may be needed for your
ultimate comfort and convenience. My advice is to do what will make
everyone happy because odds are if you are on vacation, in unfamiliar
territory, than keeping everyone happy is a good thing.
