There is nothing greater than a good road trip, especially when traveling with your loved ones. Road trips make travel cost-effective and more practical. You have the freedom of seeing a destination at your own pace and fewer restrictions.
When you travel abroad or interstate and don’t have your own vehicle, once you have booked your flights, and selected your accommodation, the next step to look for is cheap and discount car rentals.
When searching online for discounted rental cars, there are a few strategies you should follow, so you end up booking your best deal.
- Book In Advance
You will almost always get a better deal when you book online in advance than at the counter. It is also a quick and easy way to book. The last thing you want to do after a long flight is to deal with rental car companies at the airport.
- Check Costs Frequently
Just as you search for flights, it pays to check costs frequently as they do change. Different days can have different rates. One of the great things about car rental is that reservations often times can be cancelled and re-booked without fees.
- Consider Your Vehicle Type
Think carefully about what type of car you require. You might get tempted to go for the big SUV, but think of fuel consumption and the practicalities of the car.
Being comfortable is imperative, so don’t choose a small car until unless you have a tight budget.
- Age Requirement
In most places, the minimum car rental age is 21 years. Additional fees may apply with certain car rentals for a driver aged under 25 years or over 65 years.
So if you are under 25, but travelling with a companion, who is above that age, let them be the designated driver to save on this cost.
- Adjust Pick-up and Drop-off times
When you search for discounted car rentals online, the pick-up and drop off timings will usually be half-hour incremented. Try altering these timings and see if it affects the rates.
- Additional State Taxes and Fees
If you cross state borders or enter another country, additional state taxes and fees may apply. Don’t hide about where you are taking the car as if you have an issue you probably won’t be covered by insurance.
- Inspect Your Car
Before driving out your rental car, you need to do a thorough inspection of the vehicle. Fill in the documentation, get a copy, and take pictures if you find any damage fill in the documentation. You don’t want to be held liable for damage you didn’t do.
Bottom Line
If you are flying to your next destination and need a cheap and discount car rentals, hope these tips come in handy and also save you both time and money.
