It is quite common to come across car hire horror stories whether through personal anecdotes or online reviews. The abundance of such negative stories is hardly a surprise since few professional travellers, car hire employees, or company owners share their car hire secrets. Fortunately, this article aims to offer 5 exclusive tips to help you save money significantly and avoid scams when renting a car. Make sure to bookmark this page for future reference before you start planning your next trip.
The number one tip before you purchase any kind of services is to look for a comparison website. You can assess affordable car hire options on websites like holidaycars.com where you will be provided with an extended list of vehicles available for hire, of various sizes and power. You can quickly compare the daily car hire prices and applicable policies to find the best option for your budget. Additionally, the incorporation of the customer satisfaction rating for each option reduces the energy you’ll spend on researching the legitimacy of each car hire company.
It is common for travellers to look for car hire companies in the airport complex as it makes it easier for them to pick up and drop off the vehicle from the moment they land till right before they leave respectively. This convenience comes with a price. However, if you are more interested in saving big, then you should consider heading to car hire companies located outside the airport or in central areas of the city you’re visiting. Their rates are lower because their offices are not so effortlessly approachable.
Our rental vehicle amid the Spitzkoppe Mountains
Car hire suppliers offer special discounts and promo codes from time to time, which can help you save money. This is a promotional tactic that many businesses use to increase brand awareness. By simply googling the car hire company or subscribing to their newsletter, you can discover a secret code that can magically reduce your total sum at checkout.
Each car hire company has its own policies; many require drivers to return the vehicle with a full tank. In some cases, they offer clients the option to pay for the fuel in advance, relieving them from the obligation to refuel it themselves. Although this option may seem more convenient, insider tips for saving money suggest that it is cheaper to go to a petrol station and fill the tank yourself.
One of the best tips to avoid car hire nightmares and scams is to inspect the car and take videos of its condition before driving. This way, you cannot be blamed or charged for damages that were pre-existing before you assumed responsibility.
Booking your car hire well in advance often gets you better rates than booking last minute. Prices tend to go up as the pick-up date approaches.
Some rentals have mileage limits and charge extra for exceeding them. Make sure you understand these limits and choose unlimited mileage if necessary.
Car rental companies charge for extras like GPS or child seats. Bring your own if you can to save money.
If possible, limit the number of additional drivers as this often incurs extra charges.
Always read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid hidden fees and charges.
Check if you qualify for discounts through memberships in organizations like AAA, AARP, or frequent flyer programs.
This is a guest post.
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.