Carol Jones
Renting a car can be difficult because of surprise charges and expensive prices. It is important to prepare ahead of time to avoid paying more. It is best to book a car in advance to get the best rates. Waiting until the last minute can make the cost much higher. But there are other ways to save money. In this article, we will discuss some tips to help you have a cheaper and hassle-free rental car experience on your next trip.
Get the Best Car Rental Deals by Booking Early
Booking your car rental well ahead of time can have a big impact on finding a good price instead of paying a lot. This is especially important in places where you need a car or in popular tourist spots. It’s best to book at least six to eight weeks ahead, but the sooner you can do it, the better.
Just remember, there are always better deals than what you first see. Don’t book directly through the rental company’s website because it’s usually more expensive. Look for reliable car rental platforms like Discover Cars, they offer a seamless vehicle rental experience by making the booking process clear, effortless, and enjoyable.
Avoid Prepaying for Your Rental Car
It’s not a good idea to pay the full amount upfront for your rental car. Prices can vary from place to place and even change until the day you pick up the car. The good thing about renting a car is that you can change or cancel your reservation before you get to the rental counter. For example, discovercars.com offers a 48h cancellation policy, if you cancel in this period before pick-up time you will be able to receive a full refund. Process how to do it is also quick and easy, access “my booking” on their website, submit cancellation requests and that`s all.
Skip Prepaying for Gas and Save
When you rent a car, don’t be tempted to pre-purchase gas. Unless you’re lazy or have extra money to spend, it’s not a good idea. The rental company may make it seem like a good deal, but you’ll pay for the full tank whether you use it or not. Plus, there are often additional fees and taxes added on.
Here’s a tip from the experts: When you return the rental car, make sure to refuel within a 10-mile radius of the drop-off location and keep the receipt. Avoid using the gas station right by the airport terminal because it’s usually more expensive. Instead, take an earlier exit and use apps to find cheaper gas stations.
As you get close to the drop-off spot, be ready to check the fuel gauge. The drop-off agent might try to charge you a fee for refueling, even if the tank is just slightly below full. Show them your gas receipt as proof that you refueled nearby, and you can avoid this fee.
Skip Expensive Add-Ons and Bring Your Own Gear
Don’t give in to the temptation of spending extra money on in-car GPS systems and other add-ons offered by rental companies. These extras are expensive and often don’t work well. Instead, use free navigation options like Google Maps or rely on familiar voices like Siri to help you find your way.
If you’re traveling with young kids, it’s a good idea to bring your own all-in-one infant car seat and stroller. Rental companies often charge extra for used car seats, so bringing your own can save you money without sacrificing safety and convenience.
Save Money on Toll Fees During Car Rentals
Instead of using rental agencies that charge you daily for toll transponders, it’s smarter to take control. Bring your own Pass or pay with cash at toll gates to avoid unnecessary expenses. Don’t be fooled by the “convenience” they offer, as these charges can add up and become a burden. Save money by paying the tolls yourself.
Review Receipts upon Returning Rental Cars
When you are returning a rental car, you need to be careful about extra fees that might be added. The rental company might try to surprise you with charges you weren’t expecting because they know you might be in a hurry to catch a flight. They might add fees for refueling the car or say you were late even if you weren’t. To protect yourself, always ask for a receipt and look at the charges before leaving. If something seems wrong, talk to a manager at the rental place. It’s better to deal with the problem in person rather than try to fix it later over the phone.
Consider Rental Car Insurance Options
No matter how good a driver you are, you never know what will happen on the road, especially traveling abroad. To have a relaxing and stress-free vacation we suggest you consider extra insurance. When renting via Discover Cars, customers can cover the deductible of their car rental with a Full Coverage plan. Full Coverage works together with Collision Damage Waiver and Theft Protection, your credit card insurance, or your personal car insurance policy. Better be safe than sorry.
Final Words
To get the best deal and avoid expensive traps when renting a car, it is important to book well in advance, preferably six to eight weeks ahead, and to avoid prepaying for the rental car or gas. Additionally, bringing your own gear, saving money on toll fees, reviewing receipts, and considering rental car insurance options can help save money at the end of the day and ensure a smooth rental experience.
