Archive for the ‘car rentals’ Category

Car Rental Travel Tips

Tuesday, July 14th, 2009

Car rentals are perfect for tourists that want to have flexibility and freedom in their travel. But before going onto the road with your car rental, you must know what to do and not do:

  • Know the perfect car for your needs

    Consider renting an SUV or a big sedan for family trips or for travel that require gears. If you would just want to save on gas and rental, find the smallest car.

    Look for environmental friendly vehicles.

    Ask the company if they offer other amenities like a GPS system or a ski rack.

  • Know how to and who to rent from

    For short travel rentals, consider the big rental companies, but if you are planning to rent for a week or two, avail local rentals. Take note that some local auto dealers do not have all the support services offered by the major companies.

    Research online for car rental rates.

  • Know how to avail discounts like membership from national associations, frequent travel privileges or credit card advantages.

    You can also apply for the car rental companies’ loyalty programs.

  • Know the terms and conditions

    Read. Ask. Know about their rules and regulations, policies and penalties. Know if there are interstate travel restrictions. If you are having a one-way travel, know about drop-off charges.

    Always ask for a confirmation number.

  • Know the real price of the rental

    Remember that rentals also have taxes, surcharges, additional fees, even insurance and gasoline bills.

    Not all advertisements are available all-year round, many are seasonal only.

    Rental companies have adopted yield management where prices can readjust depending on the available cars for rent.

  • Know what to do when picking up the car

    It is smart to take a shuttle from the airport to the hotel if you arrive at night.

    If you have your own auto insurance or a major credit card that covers collision damage, you are safe from availing the car rental’s insurance.

    Before starting your travels, check the rental for any damages, its mileage, and the car model and color too.

  • Know what to do when returning the rental

    Return with a full tank.

    Avoid returning the car too early or too late.

    Check the rental before you leave.

    Have the rental attendant check for by damages and be sure that you agree on them.

Enjoying a road trip is good this summer with lower gas prices, just make sure that before your travel you have done your research

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Tips for Business Travelers: How To Save Money On Rental Cars

Wednesday, January 28th, 2009

Car rental agencies have been charging high these days, and it is indeed a bad news, especially for business travelers.

Abrams Consulting Group President Neil Abrams said that car rental business is not doing good nowadays.

So this is why the rates have increased, given the fact that the demand is not that frequent.

People do not travel that often anymore. Some companies would normally sell used cars at a lower price, thus they earn less from what they usually make.

Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group Chief Executive and President Scott Thompson said that the current problem is expected to continue until this year.

Here are 7 strategies to avoid spending too much on car rentals:

  • Car rentals at the airports charge 3 times higher, so if you want to save more money, go to an agency that is located outside the airport vicinity.
  • Avoid paying for extra fees like travel insurance. It is not necessary to purchase because it is already included.
  • Make a price comparison because rates among outlets and companies vary. Websites such as BreezeNet, Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia can make the comparison easier. Check the full rate that includes fees and taxes.
  • Bid on Hotwire.com or Priceline.com. They charge only half of what the car rental agencies in the airport do. However, bidding in these websites are non-refundable.
  • Make sure to bring card at all times, as members of Costco, some credit card holders, AARP and AAA may be eligible for a 5% discount and up.
  • Auto Rental News Editor Chris Brown advised to return the car on time. Avoid the late fees and do not depend on the grace period.
  • Check the locations and prices of gas stations that are near the rental place. Business travelers or anyone renting a car must return it with full tank, unless they would want to pay for a per-gallon raise in price for the company’s refueling.

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Travel Tip: How to Get Car Rentals at Lower Rates

Wednesday, January 14th, 2009

Traveling may be a very rewarding experience, moreover an escape to a routinary life. Yet, one would also need funds in order to get to places and afford the expenses traveling may post. From transportation, to food, to accommodations, some even considering even getting travel insurance, name it, financing is definitely a requirement to traveling.

One of the primary essentials of traveling is of course the transportation. Traveling through airlines may be convenient. However, with a limited budget, even cheap flights may come as a huge expense for someone – especially if traveling with the whole family or group of friends.

Which is why, another means of transportation that is always considered for tight budget travel plans is renting a car. Aside from the savings one can get from car rentals, the idea of enjoying even the drive to places with friends or family may be another adventure one can never get through air travel. Although it may take a lot longer than flights, traveling through land seems a more adventurous and laid back at the same time.

However, renting a car may also post some added expenses if not properly planned. To help you maximize traveling with rented cars, here are some tips you can keep in mind:

  • Make reservations as early as possible. You can go online to check for the most popular car rentals in your area. Thorough comparison of prices may come in handy, allowing you to get the lowest rates for a good quality car.
  • Choose the appropriate car for your trip. Consider the number of people joining the trip and even the luggage you may be carrying with you. The bigger the car, the higher the rate. Choose one that would most comply with your needs.
  • Never hesitate to inquire for deals. Some car rental companies offer the same rate for longer rent duration.

With these, you can definitely save a lot of money and still make the most out of your trip even with limited budget.

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Car Rentals: Lease VS Rent

Friday, August 29th, 2008

If you are planning a European vacation, it is not surprising that you will want to consider traveling to the different attractions on a car, bringing you to the timeless question: which will allow you to enjoy more savings: lease or rent?

Continue Reading: Car Rentals: Lease VS Rent

How to Save Money on Car Rentals

Friday, September 28th, 2007

Vacation time usually spells expense. Though you can save money on cheap airline tickets, but you can also save money on car rentals. While many of you may find renting a car a perennial hassle, you can’t disregard the fact that a car is definitely convenient and better than public transport in foreign land. But isn’t renting a car an expensive affair? Sure, it was but until now!

Continue Reading: How to Save Money on Car Rentals