When it comes to traveling, renting a car can be a convenient and flexible option that allows you to explore your destination at your own pace. However, finding an affordable car rental can sometimes be a daunting task.
Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of 20 ways to help you rent a car for a cheap price. Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or an extended road trip, these tips will help you save money without compromising on quality. So let’s dive in!
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
20 Ways to Rent a Car for Cheap
Here are ways to rent a car for a cheap price:
- Compare different car rental companies, such as Avis, Hertz, Alamo, and Budget.
- Book your car rental in advance to take advantage of early booking discounts.
- Avoid renting cars directly from the airport to avoid additional fees and taxes.
- Look for discounts and coupons offered by car rental companies.
- Consider traveling during off-peak seasons or weekdays for lower rental rates.
- Opt for economy or compact cars to save on rental costs.
- Utilize car rental apps to compare prices and book rentals conveniently.
- Subscribe to rental company newsletters for exclusive discounts and offers.
- Rent for longer durations to benefit from long-term rental discounts.
- Check for unlimited mileage options to avoid additional charges for long-distance trips.
- Consider renting from local or independent car rental companies for competitive rates.
- Keep an eye out for special promotions and limited-time offers.
- Use price comparison websites to compare rental prices from multiple companies.
- Be mindful of insurance options and check if your personal insurance covers rental cars.
- Join loyalty programs offered by rental companies for discounts and rewards.
- Consider one-way rentals for road trips with different pickup and drop-off locations.
- Utilize membership discounts, such as AAA or AARP, for reduced rental rates.
- Negotiate with rental companies for better prices or match competitor offers.
- Avoid extra fees by being aware of additional charges like additional driver fees or fuel charges.
- Check for refundable deposit options to reduce upfront rental costs.
By following these points, you can find ways to rent a car for a cheap price while still enjoying a comfortable and convenient travel experience.
1. Compare Different Car Rental Companies
When it comes to car rentals, different companies offer different rates. Some of the top contenders include Avis, Hertz, Alamo, and Budget. We’ve got detailed comparison articles that can help you make the right choice: Budget vs Avis, Budget vs Hertz, Budget vs Alamo, and Budget vs Dollar Car Rental.
2. Book in Advance
One of the most effective ways to secure a cheap car rental is by booking in advance. By planning ahead and reserving your vehicle before your trip, you can take advantage of early booking discounts and promotions. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to compare prices and find the best deal available. So, make sure to visit How Much to Rent a Car for 3 Days and How Much to Rent a Car for 4 Days for useful insights on the cost of renting a car for specific durations.
3. Avoid Airport Pickups
While it may be convenient to pick up your rental car directly from the airport, you’ll often end up paying a premium for this service. Airports typically charge additional fees and taxes, which can significantly increase the overall cost of your rental. Instead, consider using public transportation or a taxi to reach your accommodation and then rent a car from a local rental office. This way, you can save money and avoid unnecessary expenses.
4. Take Advantage of Discounts and Coupons
Many car rental companies offer discounts and coupons that can significantly reduce the cost of your rental. These discounts can be based on membership affiliations, such as AAA or AARP, or promotional codes available through various channels. Keep an eye out for these offers and take full advantage of them to secure a cheap rental. Additionally, explore our article on How to Save Money on Car Rentals for more tips and tricks on getting the best deals.
5. Consider Off-Peak Travel
Traveling during off-peak seasons or weekdays can often lead to lower car rental rates. Many rental companies have flexible pricing that adjusts based on demand. By avoiding peak travel periods, such as holidays or popular vacation seasons, you can take advantage of lower rates. This is especially beneficial if your travel dates are flexible. So, when planning your trip, try to schedule it during less busy times to score a cheaper rental.
6. Opt for Economy or Compact Cars
Choosing an economy or compact car can be an excellent way to save money on your rental. These vehicles are generally more fuel-efficient and have lower rental rates compared to larger cars or SUVs. If you don’t require a lot of space or have a smaller travel party, consider opting for a smaller car category to reduce costs. To help you make an informed decision, take a look at our article on The 10 Best Cars to Rent which provides recommendations for budget-friendly and reliable rental cars.
7. Utilize Car Rental Apps
In today’s digital age, car rental apps have become a convenient tool for finding and booking affordable rentals. These apps allow you to compare prices, browse available vehicles, and make reservations directly from your smartphone. Some popular car rental apps include Getaround and DriveWise. To learn more about the best car rental apps, check out our article on The 6 Best Car Rental Apps.
8. Subscribe to Rental Company Newsletters
To stay updated with the latest deals and promotions, consider subscribing to newsletters from different car rental companies. Rental companies often send out exclusive discounts and offers to their subscribers, giving you the opportunity to snag a cheap rental. Keep an eye on your inbox for these newsletters, and you might just find a great deal for your next trip.
9. Rent for Longer Durations
Renting a car for an extended period can often lead to lower daily rates. If you’re planning a week-long vacation or a month-long road trip, consider renting the car for the entire duration. This way, you can take advantage of long-term rental discounts and enjoy a lower average daily rate.
10. Look for Unlimited Mileage Options
If you’re planning to cover long distances during your trip, it’s essential to find a rental company that offers unlimited mileage. Some rental companies impose mileage restrictions and charge additional fees if you exceed the allocated distance. By opting for unlimited mileage, you can have peace of mind and avoid any unexpected charges.
Pro tip: Don’t rush the decision-making process. Take your time to research and compare the prices and services of different companies.
11. Consider Renting from Local or Independent Companies
While large rental chains are popular, don’t overlook local or independent car rental companies. These smaller businesses often offer competitive rates and personalized service. By supporting local businesses, you can not only save money but also contribute to the local economy. Research local rental companies in your destination and compare their prices with the larger chains to find the best deal.
12. Check for Special Promotions
Car rental companies frequently run special promotions and limited-time offers. Keep an eye out for these promotions on the rental company’s website or social media channels. They may include discounted rates, free upgrades, or other incentives to attract customers. By taking advantage of these promotions, you can secure a great deal on your car rental.We’ve got an article on how to save money on car rentals that provides more insights into this.
13. Use Price Comparison Websites
Price comparison websites are valuable tools for finding the cheapest car rental options. Websites like Expedia.com and Kayak allow you to enter your travel details and compare prices from multiple rental companies simultaneously. They provide a convenient way to quickly identify the most affordable options and make an informed decision.
14. Be Mindful of Insurance Options
When renting a car, the rental company will typically offer additional insurance coverage. While it’s important to have insurance for your rental, you may already be covered through your personal auto insurance policy or credit card. Before accepting the rental company’s insurance, check with your insurance provider and credit card company to understand your existing coverage. By avoiding unnecessary insurance expenses, you can reduce the overall cost of your rental.
15. Join Loyalty Programs
If you frequently rent cars, joining a loyalty program can offer significant benefits. Rental companies often provide exclusive discounts, priority service, and rewards points for loyal customers. These points can be redeemed for future rentals or upgrades, helping you save money in the long run. Take advantage of loyalty programs offered by various rental companies to maximize your savings.
16. Consider One-Way Rentals
If you’re planning a road trip with different pickup and drop-off locations, look into one-way rental options. Some car rental companies offer special rates and promotions for one-way rentals, allowing you to explore different destinations without incurring additional fees. While availability may vary, it’s worth considering if it aligns with your travel plans.
17. Utilize Membership Discounts
Certain memberships or affiliations can provide you with exclusive discounts on car rentals. For example, AAA and AARP members often enjoy reduced rates and additional perks when renting a car. Check if your memberships offer any car rental benefits and take advantage of them to secure a cheaper rental.
18. Negotiate for a Better Price
While it may not always work, negotiating the rental price can sometimes lead to a better deal. Contact the rental company directly and inquire about any available discounts or special rates. If you’ve found a better price with a competitor, let the rental company know, and they may be willing to match or beat that offer. It never hurts to ask, and you might be pleasantly surprised by the savings you can negotiate. Find out more on how to rent a car without a credit card.
19. Avoid Extra Fees
When renting a car, be aware of potential extra fees that can increase the overall cost. Some common fees include additional driver fees, underage driver fees, fuel charges, and toll fees. To keep your rental affordable, avoid unnecessary extras and be mindful of any potential fees associated with your rental agreement.
20. Check for Refundable Deposits
Many rental companies require a security deposit when you pick up the car. However, some companies offer refundable deposit options. By choosing a rental company with a refundable deposit policy, you can have the deposit amount refunded to your account after returning the car in good condition. This can help you allocate your travel budget more effectively and reduce the upfront costs of renting a car.
Conclusion
Renting a car doesn’t have to break the bank. By following these 20 tips, you can find affordable car rental options that fit your budget without compromising on quality. Remember to book in advance, compare prices, take advantage of discounts and promotions, and be mindful of additional fees. With a little planning and research, you can secure a cheap car rental and enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Happy travels!
