Car Rental Made Easy

Using budget car rentals could be the way to enjoy an independent vacation; getting around by taxi is ok, providing you don't mind waiting or the expensive fares! The problem is finding a company that doesn't rent budget cars, you know, the sort that sound like they should be mowing the lawn. Do not forget, the idea is to rent a car inexpensively, not one that is destined to be scrapped the minute you return it. That said; here are a few ideas you can use when organizing your rental car.

If the type of car you want to drive is of no real concern to you, use a budget car rental web site that allows you to dictate your own price level. Do not dismiss this type of sites because they want your business and sometimes offer other incentives like unlimited mileage for example. Look for package deals, fly-drive-stay, or fly-drive, most of these packages give great discounts for rentals, but don't do it with an airline. Most people landing at an airport rush off to the car rental counters not realizing that these are not the most cost efficient places to rent a car and it is the same for their online business as well.

Just remember that you are likely to come across some amazing budget car rental deals on the internet if you look. Often the discounts you are offered are only available to online customers. Aside from that you can easily get upgrades and depending on the season, at least one rental company is bound to have a special offer that can help you save money. In addition to that, you can rent a car in the comfort of your own home, now beat that!

Sometimes, just when you think you have managed to get a really good deal. You find your credit card company has another surprise when it has organized a discount with the budget car rental company on top of any you have already arranged. If you are a member of the military or government, you may be eligible for discounts negotiated with a number of rental companies on your behalf.

Before you drive the rental car away, carry out a thorough check for damage. These cars often take a few knocks so if there is any damage; make sure the renter is aware of them. For you own peace of mind and financial well-being, check out all the vehicles controls and make sure everything that is fitted works so you won't have to pay for something that was faulty when you drove it away.

As far as rental car insurance is concerned, check your own before you pay out more for the rental company's policy which you may not need. Saving money is the game so why pay for rental car insurance you don't need when renting your car; whatever the case, you must still have insurance cover when you rent a car so don't try and skip it to save money.

Always make sure you have auto insurance as the penalties for driving without adequate cover are severe.



September 29, 2009
By Gilbert Hernandez
Find great deals on Budget Car Rentals Today

Top Car Rental Questions and Answers

Every summer brings about roadways full of travelers all going somewhere on vacation, many of them in a rental car. Rental cars can be great as they can be tailored to fit the needs of a certain trip you are planning. With a rental car you are free to choose whether you need a minivan for the entire family or an economical smaller car for yourself, it's all up to you. With renting a car, there are many questions that can be covered but there are three that usually come up every single time.

Here are the top three rental car questions and answers:

1. QUESTION: 'Do I need to buy the rental car insurance?'

ANSWER: Obtaining rental car insurance can be costly. In fact, there are certain instances where the insurance can cost you more than the rental itself. But you must keep in mind that YOU are responsible for the car you rent if any damages or even theft occur while the car is in your possession. Many individuals decline to get the coverage because they assume that their personal insurance or their credit card has them covered, only to find out later they were mistaken. Never assume. Always check first with your insurance company and or credit card company to see if you are fully covered. If you are not, then it is definitely to your advantage to buy the rental insurance, as you never know what might happen.

2. QUESTION: 'Is there any way to obtain a cheap car rental price than what I was quoted over the phone?'

ANSWER: Absolutely yes! Keep in mind that when you call for a price the agent is not going to tell you about any special deals that may be going on. The first step is to ask if they do have any unadvertised specials. You can also go online to book your reservation and many times this will save you money as well. While online, look for other specials like free upgrades or things of that nature that the car rental company may be offering. Triple A members can almost always save a few bucks, but only if they tell the agent that they are members. Lastly, call your credit card company. Many credit card companies work hand in hand with car rental companies and can give you a special 'code' that will save you additional money.

3. QUESTION: 'How far in advance should I book my car rental?'

ANSWER: You should always book your car rental at least one week in advance of your trip. Why? First of all you want to ensure that the vehicle you want will be available and the closer you wait until your trip, the more of a chance you have to get stuck with whatever is left on the lot. Second, and even more important, it may save you money. Here is another unadvertised special that the car rental companies will not tell you about. Really it is more of supply and demand. The longer you wait, the more the car rental companies generally charge because basically they know you will pay the fee as you have little choice. What are you going to do, walk to Disney? On the flip side though, if you book in advance, the car rental companies know you have plenty of time to call around and price shop if you are displeased with the price of the rental and so they will offer you a lower rate to try to seal the deal so to speak.

Car rental can be a headache and the car rental companies love to play the game. If you prepare yourself and know the answers to the top car rental questions, then you will not only be able to play the game with them, but win the game and save yourself some time and more importantly, money.



September 28, 2009
By Jason Kay