How to Save Money on Your Next Car Rental

Renting your next car doesn't have to cost you and arm and a leg. There are certain steps that you can take to drastically slash the price of your next car rental. Read on for more details!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet Access
• Knowledge
• AAA Card(Optional)

1. Reserve Your Car Online - Most car rental companies offer reduced rental rates for those who book their reservations online, either in the form of internet-only coupons, or special, internet-only rates.

2. Go Basic - Forget about paying extra for a "premium" or "luxury" vehicle, and keep your car rental choice as basic as possible. Not only will you save on gas, but you will pay a much smaller rental fee.

3. Show Your AAA Card - If you are a member of AAA, don't forget to ask the person at the car rental counter for any AAA-related discounts that they might offer.

4. Say "NO" to Extra Insurance - As a fully-insured driver, you should be carrying more than enough protection for any damage that might occur to your rental vehicle. Most car rental companies try their best to get you to take as much "supplemental" coverage as possible; but don't fall for it! Also, certain credit cards will provide their own "supplemental" or "liability" coverage for a car rental. Be sure to check the terms and limits of your credit card in terms of possible car rental coverage.

5. Rent From Larger Volume Agencies - Not all car rental agencies are identical in terms of size and rental fleet. Most of the larger car rental agencies, including many that are in or near major airports, regardless of the company, will offer cheaper rates than the smaller, neighborhood rental agencies. So be sure to check around and price shop!

6. Know the Terms of Your Rental Contract - Does your car rental include free, unlimited miles, or is that extra? Do you have to return your car rental with a full tank of gas, or does it matter? What time does the car have to be returned in order to avoid any late charges? Be sure to go over the exact terms and conditions of your car rental contract; not doing so can result in additional, unforeseen charges.

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on 1/12/2009 You are right on! This is basicly all a person needs to know to get a great deal. Thanks very much.