When most people rent a car, they go online, book the cheapest vehicle listed, and think they found a great deal. But that’s not always the case.
Do you know the best time to book a rental car? It’s on Saturday. That’s because people reserve vehicles and then never show up, leaving the agency with an overflow of unused inventory.
You need to pick up the phone and call the agency directly because they know what inventory is available.
Local car-rental agencies almost always list their direct numbers online.
Where you reserve is often as important as what you reserve. Airport lots are invariably more expensive than neighborhood rentals, due to to all the taxes and fees.
Do the math on how much it would cost to take a bus or taxi to a neighborhood rental.
Last, but certainly not least, there’s the all-important liability waiver. If you’re renting domestically and you have your own auto insurance, chances are you’re covered. But call your agent to find out what’s NOT covered, like loss of use.
And if you credit card claims to cover you, be sure it’s offering primary, not secondary insurance.
For more information, visit the Driving & Car Rental archives.
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