8 Tips to Avoid Spending Extra Time and Money at the Car Rental Desk

When flying to a different city, finding a good means of transportation might be tricky. Sometimes, the subway or bus system is satisfactory and reliable. Taking a taxi is also an option. However, there are times when renting a car becomes necessary. Whether you are vacationing with a group tour or travelling solo, having a rental car can be a great option, giving you the freedom to explore your destination. However, car rentals are costly if you're not careful. The following are some tips to avoid spending extra money and time at the car rental desk:

1. Pay in Advance

Many car rental companies now offer advance payment options. That means you can check out and pay during the reservation process instead of waiting until you get to the counter. Discounts are there if you'd like to use them. They are usually around 10 per cent, but you may be able to get a deal for more.

Paying in advance is much better as you have so many better options to choose from, while if you wait for the last minute, your choices get narrow. This way, you can review the best deals and go for one. Some car rental companies may take advantage of your emergency and even charge more if you wait until you are at the desk.

2. Use a Third-Party Site

You should set your budget and price before you start looking for an airport car rental. Once you have decided on the price, you can use a third-party site that will lock you into low rates if you agree to book the car that day. You have many options to choose from. AutoSlash is a great website to take quotes, find the best and cheapest rentals, and even see if there is any discount available.

3. Be Careful about What You Are Signing

*Photo by Sohaib virk on Flickr

Many people who go to a rental desk are in a hurry, so they end up signing the rental agreement quickly. Paying close attention to the rental agreement you are signing with the company is vital. You have to ensure you are not signing anything that will later work against you, such as extra payment and some other liabilities. You have to be careful and check if any price is included for unwanted damages to the tyres or shields. 

4. Inspect the Car Carefully

*Photo by Pictures of Money on Flickr

Check the car carefully before leaving with it. Make certain there is no pre-damage you need to be wary of. Point out the damages to the rental company and ask them to mention that in the agreement. You don’t want to be involved in a dispute later on, paying for some damage you didn’t cause. Spending some extra time making sure of this is certainly worth it.

5. Use Promotional Codes

Promotional codes and discounts may be available for your car rental. You can first check the car rental company's site and see if they offer any discounts to you. If you don't see any codes, you can perform an online search for a coupon and code site, separate from the rental company. 

Additionally, you may be able to get a discount if you have a credit card that offers discounts on rental cars. Silvercar Rental Company, for instance, offers different forms of discount codes such as codes for new members, seasonal discounts, and deals for one-week-plus rentals. You can also contact your auto insurance company and see if you can take a break from them.

6. Buy Your Insurance

Another way that you can save some cash is by supplying your insurance. Rental companies will try to sell you their insurance to protect the vehicle. They want to make sure that they're covered if anything happens. However, you can use your insurance and avoid paying that extra money.

7. Acquire Membership

Try to have a membership in a car rental programme, which then can save you a lot of time at a car rental desk. Moreover, you won’t worry about cars getting sold out as the membership increases your chances of getting a car. For example, Hertz rental company has the Hertz Gold Rewards programme, in which the elite members can earn bonus miles and wilder choices.

If you become an elite member, there can even be a separate line special for you, and you won’t need to wait in the usual queues. 

8. Reserve It Early

*Photo by Meredith P. on Flickr

Getting yourself a fantastic deal is easy when booking reservations ahead of time. Choose a time of the year or week that is slow, and book your vehicle at least four weeks in advance. You should be able to get the car that you desire, and you should be able to get a fantastic deal on it. 

Furthermore, you may be able to snatch an agreement on a weekly or weekend rental. Always check the specials they have going on, and then lock in one that will work for you. Calling the rental company and checking the status of your reservation is also a good idea just before taking off. 

These are just a few tips for saving a little cash on a car rental. You'll probably think of a few more before you place your order. Take advantage of as many as you can and enjoy the ride.