Getting around in a foreign country can be a bit of a hassle, especially when it comes to how expensive it is. Taxi’s cost a fortune, and yes it’s true that Uber is a cheaper alternative. However, at the end of the day it is still extra money that you’re just wasting. Renting is a simpler and cheaper alternative. There are often times when you’re out at late hours during the night, and it’s strenuous to find a taxi. Also, if you’re in a foreign country and you’re planning on visiting different cities, sometimes going by road is a cheaper option. Here are some simple ways to save money on rental cars.
1. Book Your Rental Car As Early As Possible
More often than not rental cars tend to sell out quickly. As soon as you have sold travel plans we recommend that you book your rental cars. Booking early means you’ll have more options to choose from. Otherwise you’ll be forced upgrade your car by the rental company. That will just defeat the purpose of you saving money on transportation.
2. Do A Little Comparison Shopping
Most of you will not be aware of the fact that rental companies offer different rates on the company’s website, their 1-800 numbers and their local office. In order to get a price that fits your budget make sure to check all three platforms and pick the cheapest option. In order to cover all your bases check the rates of independent travel websites like Travelocity, Expedia and many more.
3. Book The Smallest Car
Book the smallest car that meets your needs and budget. There is always a chance for a free upgrade to a bigger vehicle. Car rental companies are known to overbook their smaller cars, which results in them giving free upgrades to their customers. Take a gamble on booking the smaller car, because that free upgrade might just be yours.
4. Rent A Car For A Long Period Of Time
Yes, it sounds silly to rent a car for a longer period especially when you’re trying to save money on rental cars. Renting a car for a week (or more) is far cheaper than renting it for a couple of days. The car rental companies are shrewd and know that business travellers rent car for a short period of time, and leisure travelers do it for longer. The rentals are priced keeping their target customers in mind. You don’t want to be charged the same prices as a business traveller do you?
5. Don’t Rent At Airports
Rental companies which have hubs in airports charge their customers with airport tax. The airport tax is as much as 25% of your entire rental charge. You can easily save money by renting a car with the same company and picking your car from a different destination. Since the airport tax is charged on cars that are picked from the airport and not dropped off, you have the option of returning the car at the airport without any extra charge.
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