With ticket prices and baggage fees and hotel costs, there's no doubt that trips are expensive. There are tips and tricks to help you save money where you can, and that includes your rental car. Here's what you need to know so that you're in the driver's seat when it comes to getting a fair deal on rental car expenses.
Plan Ahead
Reserve your car ahead of time so that you have time to compare prices of different companies and take advantage of any deals that might be offered. Also, by pre-booking, you avoid long lines of weekend travelers and holiday vacationers.
Get Online
Use a smartphone or a computer to make your car reservation. Companies looking to increase business and make the process easier might steer more customers to their website or their mobile apps with deals and savings.
Research
Much like planning ahead to book your car, the more you research into hidden fees, the more money you could save. You should also research to see if you belong to any group like AAA or the AART that offers a discount on rental cars. Looking into coupons -- in the newspaper or via online sites like Groupon -- could save money, and so could packaging your rental car with your flight or hotel when you book the flight online. Yes, it takes effort, but the savings are a sweet reward.
Document
Before signing the papers and driving off the lot, make sure you check the car over for dings, scratches, dents, and other signs of wear and tear. Check the interior along with the wheel rims and the bumpers. It might be a good idea to take pictures of any and all pre-existing damage in order to protect yourself from charges. Make sure the seat belts, windows, and AC all function properly. Start the car up and make sure it runs smoothly, without odd noises.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
