Road trips are a great way to explore new destinations at your own pace, but renting a car can sometimes take a toll on your travel budget. Fortunately, with some planning and smart decisions, you can reduce your rental costs without sacrificing convenience or comfort. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, following these cheap car rental tips can help you save big on your next road trip.
1. Book Early to Get the Best Price
One of the golden rules for getting a good car rental deal is to book early. Car rental prices tend to increase as your travel date approaches, especially during peak holiday or vacation periods when demand is high. Booking in advance allows you to lock in lower prices before they skyrocket.
Additionally, booking in advance gives you a wider choice of vehicles. Whether you need a fuel-efficient compact car or a spacious SUV, booking early increases your chances of getting a vehicle that fits your budget and needs.
2. Compare prices on multiple platforms
Just like finding hotel or flight deals, shopping around is the key to saving money on a rental car. There are several comparison websites such as Kayak, Expedia and Rentalcars.com that allow you to compare prices from different rental companies in one place. Use these platforms to check for deals and discounts that may not be available on the rental company’s website.
Once you’ve found a competitive price, go directly to the car rental company’s website. Sometimes rental companies offer special promotions or lower prices to customers who book directly. In addition, comparison sites occasionally have exclusive offers or discounts, so it’s worth checking multiple sources.
3. Don’t rent a car at the airport
While renting a car at the airport may seem convenient, the price is often high due to the extra fees and charges. Airport car rentals often come with extra charges such as facility fees, location fees and convenience fees, which can significantly increase your total rental cost.
To avoid these extra charges, consider renting from a location away from the airport. Most rental companies have offices in nearby cities or suburbs, and many offer free or low-cost shuttles to get you to and from the airport. The savings from avoiding airport fees can easily make up for the minor inconvenience.
4. Pay Attention to Insurance Costs
Car rental companies often introduce add-on insurance, which can quickly increase the price of your rental car. However, many travelers may already have coverage through personal auto insurance, credit card benefits, or travel insurance. Before accepting insurance from a rental company, check with your existing provider to see if you are already covered.
Credit cards in particular often offer rental car insurance as an extra, so it’s worth checking your credit card benefits before purchasing additional coverage. If you already have insurance, you may reject the rental company’s quote and save money unnecessarily.
5. Choose a Fuel-Efficient Car
Size matters when it comes to car rental, especially if you want to save money. Economy or compact cars are not only cheaper to rent, they’re also more fuel-efficient and can help you save money on gas during your road trip.
Unless you absolutely need the space or extra features of a larger vehicle, opting for a smaller, less expensive car is a great way to save money on your budget. Many rental companies offer attractive deals on fuel-efficient cars, making them a smart choice for solo travelers or small groups.
6. Take Advantage of Member Discounts
Many organizations and affiliated companies offer car rental discounts that can help you save big. If you’re a member of an organization like AAA, AARP, Costco, or a military or government group, you may be eligible for exclusive car rental discounts. Some credit cards also have partnerships with car rental companies to offer cardholders special rates and benefits.
Be sure to enter your membership or loyalty program information when booking to see if you qualify for any offers. Additionally, some rental companies have their own loyalty programs that reward repeat customers with discounts, free upgrades, or even free rental days.
7. Avoid extras and add-ons
Rental companies often offer all sorts of add-ons, such as GPS navigation systems, car seats, or additional drivers, which can quickly increase the cost of your rental. While these extras may seem convenient, they are not tend to charge a premium for refueling if you return the car without a full tank of gas. To avoid these extra fees, always make a point to fill up the tank yourself before returning the vehicle. This simple step can save you from overpaying for fuel at the rental company’s inflated prices.
Additionally, try to avoid gas stations near the airport or rental location, as they often charge higher rates. Instead, fill up at a gas station a few miles away where prices are likely to be more reasonable.
9. Watch Out for Hidden Fees
When renting a car, be sure to read the fine print and watch out for hidden fees that can creep into your final bill. Some of the most common fees include charges for exceeding mileage limits, late returns, or crossing state or international borders without prior permission.
To avoid these unexpected costs, make sure you understand the rental agreement before signing. Ask about any restrictions on mileage or travel routes, and confirm the return time to avoid late fees. If you’re planning a longer trip or driving across borders, discuss these plans with the rental company upfront to avoid surprises later.
10. Consider One-Way
Rentals Carefully While one-way car rentals can be a convenient option for certain road trips, they often come with hefty drop-off fees. If you’re planning a one-way trip, research the additional costs associated with dropping off the car at a different location before making your reservation.
In some cases, it may be cheaper to return the car to the original rental location and use alternative transportation, such as trains or buses, for the final leg of your journey. Compare the cost of a round-trip rental versus a one-way rental to see which option offers better value for your specific travel plans.
11. Use Cashback and Coupon Sites
Another great way to save on car rentals is by using cashback and coupon websites. Platforms like Rakuten, Honey, and Groupon often have deals or coupon codes for major car rental companies. These discounts can range from a percentage off your rental to additional savings on insurance or add-ons.
Before finalizing your booking, check these sites to see if any available deals apply to your rental. Combining a cashback offer with a discount code can lead to significant savings, allowing you to keep more money in your pocket for other parts of your road trip.
Conclusion
With the right strategies, renting a car for your next road trip doesn’t have to break the bank. By booking early, avoiding unnecessary extras, and using discount programs, you can find a budget-friendly rental that suits your needs. Whether you’re hitting the open road for a weekend adventure or embarking on a longer journey, following these tips will help you save big while still enjoying the freedom and flexibility of a rental car.
