10 Cheap Rental Car Hacks to Save You Money

Renting a car can be expensive, but with these 10 cheap rental car hacks, you can save money. From finding the lowest prices to avoiding unnecessary fees, these tips will help you get the best deal on your next rental car.

ONE.

Know where to find the lowest prices:

When searching for rental cars, compare prices on websites like autoslash.com. For example, a rental from the Los Angeles airport for a week in March can cost as low as $197 on AutoSlash, compared to $379 on Expedia. Additionally, consider renting from lesser-known companies like Avis through AutoSlash, as they often offer better rates and cancellation policies.

TWO.

Don't let car rental companies trick you:

Car rental companies often use confusing names for different car classes. To better understand what you're getting, look for resources online that explain the different car classes with specific vehicle examples. This will help you determine how many people and suitcases can fit in the car, as well as the gas mileage.

THREE.

Ensure pickup and drop-off times are identical:

When booking a rental car, make sure the pickup and drop-off times are the same whenever possible. Even a one-hour difference can significantly increase the price. By being flexible with your schedule, you can save a significant amount of money.

FOUR.

Book your car rental early:

Unlike airfare, car rental rates are based on demand and inventory. Booking your rental car early will usually result in lower prices. If you're concerned about the price changing after booking, use a free tool to track your rate over time. If the price drops, you'll be notified.

FIVE.

Consider a Costco membership:

A Costco membership can often score you the lowest price on a rental car, along with additional benefits. Use the rental car tab on the Costco website to compare prices from major rental car companies. You can often find lower prices and added perks like free additional drivers.

SIX.

Avoid renting from the airport:

Renting a car from a location outside the airport can save you hundreds of dollars. Take an Uber, Lyft, or cab a few miles from the airport to a neighborhood car rental place. In many cases, the savings outweigh the inconvenience of traveling a short distance.

SEVEN.

Explore alternative car rental options:

Consider renting from companies like Kyte and Turo, which offer lower rates and the convenience of having the car delivered directly to your door. Turo is similar to Airbnb, allowing you to rent from individuals rather than large car rental companies. This can be a great option if you're looking for a specific vehicle or want to drive a luxury car.

EIGHT.

Use photographic evidence:

Take time-stamped photos of the car when you pick it up, including any existing damage. Pay close attention to the rims, as they are often expensive to repair. Also, take a photo of your gas refill receipt and the dashboard showing the fuel tank level and mileage upon return. This evidence can support your claim if any issues arise.

NINE.

Extend your rental period:

Extending your rental by a day or two beyond your actual needs can often result in lower rates. Some rental car agencies offer lower base rates for longer rentals. Additionally, some agencies may offer prorated refunds if you return the car early.

TEN.

Understand your car rental insurance:

Many credit cards offer car rental insurance, but it's essential to understand the coverage. Most credit cards provide secondary coverage, meaning it is secondary to your personal insurance. Some credit cards, like American Express and Chase Sapphire Preferred, offer primary insurance, which can save you from going through your personal insurance in the event of an accident.

Bonus:

Score a free car rental:

Websites like autorentals.com and transfercarus.com offer opportunities for free or heavily discounted car rentals. Autorentals.com allows you to compare prices from various companies, while transfer car us.com connects individuals with rental car companies looking to transfer vehicles. By planning your trip around specific dates, you can enjoy a free or discounted rental car.

Conclusion:

By following these 10 cheap rental car hacks, you can save money on your next car rental. From finding the lowest prices to understanding insurance coverage, these tips will help you get the best deal and make your rental experience more affordable. Happy travels!