The Internet has created a whole
new opportunity for travelers searching for a great deal on a
rental car.
You can now save a lot of money by comparison shopping and leasing
your rental car right online from the convenience of your home!
Hot Deals on Car Rental
Get a Hot Deal
on a
Rental Car!
So, you think leasing
a rental car is as easy as calling your favorite national chain
and forking over your credit card number? Unless you are traveling
on someone else's dime, you'd better do your research first.
To get the lowest
rate on your next rental car, you've got to be flexible, know
where to look, what to ask and above all -- you've got to do
your homework!
Because of Competition,
Inventory and Demand, it is essential to look around and comparison
shop before leasing any rental vehicle.
Rental Cars:
Tips To Help
You
Save Up To 50%!
If you want to drive off with
a real bargain on your next rental car, you need to know the
rules of renting. Here
are some tips to consider when leasing your next rental car:
Shop the Internet.
Internet sites most of the time have better deals since they
have much lower overhead.
Check out the big consolidator
sites (like the ones listed below.) Because of special arrangements,
you'll often find that one of these travel sites will have the
best deal.
Always ask about discounts.
Frequent-flier programs, Last-Minute Specials, National Clubs
and some companies and government agencies have negotiated discounts.
Two popular
groups that regularly offer membership breaks for renters are
AARP and AAA.
Also definitely check out the
online specials and discounts at the five major rental car agencies:
Consider Renting Longer Than Needed --
To Save Money!
Although you need the car for only two days, you might get a
better price if you rent it for longer. Don't be afraid to look
at a weekly rate.
Ask about mileage.
Some companies include unlimited miles; others cap the mileage.
Estimate your needs and shop around.
Gas and Insurance.
Here are two items can really add to the cost of your rental
car.
Upon returning your rental to the rental office, fill the gas
tank yourself. Otherwise, it's gonna be pretty pricey
if you leave the fill-up to them!
As for insurance, talk to your
own agent first. Many times, your own auto insurance covers
your rental car, too. Waiving the rental company's insurance
will save you a lot.
Never stop bargain shopping.
Haggling is the name of the game! Ask if the company will give
you any free extras or upgrades. It's well worth the effort!
When you find a good rate; make reservations
immediately. Reserved
rates are usually lower than walk-up rates.
ONE FINAL TIP: Have a rental office employee check the car's
exterior with you for dents and scratches before leaving
the lot. Making a note of all existing damage may save you some
headaches later.
Consider adding
an
In-Car Navigation System
With an in-car
navigation system in your next rental car, no matter where you
go, you'll always know right where you are!
A small computer screen shows your location and direction on
the map. And you'll be happy to know that this is one computer
that is very easy to use.
Actually
enjoy your vacation or business trip without having to worry
about reading a map. Simply type in the address of where you're
going and it will direct you right there.
You might think of it as a safety feature, since your eyes can
now be on the road instead of a map!