8 car rental tips to save money on your next rental

• Book in advance and compare prices across platforms
• Consider off-airport locations and check your existing insurance coverage to avoid unnecessary fees
• Be strategic with rental periods – weekly rates often cost less than daily rates, even for shorter rentals

Trying to find the cheapest way to rent a car? Car rental costs can take a big bite out of your travel budget but they don't have to. Whether you're traveling for a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, these eight practical car rental tips will help you save money on your next car rental.

1. Book early and compare prices

One of the most effective car rental tips to secure better rates is to book your rental car well in advance. Prices may rise as your pickup date approaches, especially during peak travel seasons. Compare prices between different rental car companies to find the best deals. Remember that rates can fluctuate daily, so it's worth checking a few times before making your reservation.

Pro tip: many rental companies offer free cancellation, so you can book early and continue to monitor prices. If you find a better deal later, simply cancel and rebook at the lower rate.

2. Choose your pickup location strategically

Airport rental locations often charge premium rates and additional fees. Consider picking up your car from a neighborhood location instead – the savings can be substantial, even after factoring in transportation costs to reach the rental office. However, if you're traveling to a remote area or arriving late at night, the convenience of an airport pickup might outweigh potential savings.

3. Check existing insurance coverage

Understanding insurance is one of the most critical car rental tips to ensure you don't overpay. Before accepting additional insurance at the rental counter, check which coverage you already have. Many credit cards provide rental car insurance when you use them to pay for the rental. Your personal auto insurance policy might also extend to rental cars. Contact your credit card company and insurance provider to understand your existing coverage.

Remember: while saving money is important, make sure you're adequately protected. If you're traveling internationally or your existing coverage has gaps, purchasing additional insurance might be worth the expense.

4. Join free loyalty programs

Most major rental companies offer free membership programs that can help save you money and time. Benefits often include:

• Skip-the-counter pickup
• Member-only discounts
• Free upgrades when available
• Points toward free rental days

Since these programs are free to join, consider signing up for several to maximize your options and compare member rates.

5. Watch for hidden fees

Too good of a car rental deal? Read the fine print carefully to avoid unexpected charges. Common fees to watch for include:

• Additional driver charges
• Young driver fees
• Late return penalties
• Toll transponder charges
• GPS rental fees
• Mileage restrictions: Ensure your contract includes unlimited mileage if you plan a long road trip. If not, calculate the potential per-mile surcharge.

Ask about all potential fees upfront and decline optional services you don't need. Some companies waive additional driver fees for spouses or business colleagues, so ask about available exceptions.

6. Be smart about fuel

Rental companies typically offer several fueling policies but pre-paying for a full tank or returning the car without filling up usually costs more. For the best value:

• Decline the pre-paid fuel option (usually)
• Fill up the tank yourself before returning
• Keep your gas receipt as proof
• Use apps to find cheaper gas stations near the return location

Remember to take a photo of the fuel gauge when picking up and returning the car to document the fuel level and avoid disputes.

7. Maximize your rental period

Rental car pricing can vary significantly based on the length of your rental. Weekly rates are often cheaper per day than daily rates so even if you need the car for five days, a weekly rental might cost less. Similarly, extending your rental by a day might lower the overall daily rate.

Other timing car rental tips:

• Weekend rates can be cheaper than weekday rates
• Renting for a full week might cost less than five or six days
• Return during business hours to avoid after-hours fees

Before finalizing your reservation, try adjusting your pickup and return times to find the most economical combination.

8. Document everything to avoid extra fees

One way to avoid a surprise charge after returning your car is by creating a record of its condition. Rental companies charge customers for vehicle damage – take pictures of your rental car's interior and exterior during pick up to serve as proof for any pre-existing damage.

When picking up the car:

• Check the car thoroughly: Do a thorough walk-around and look for scratches, dents, and chips on every panel, including the roof, wheels, and bumpers.
• Take pictures: Take photos or a continuous video of the car's exterior from all angles, focusing on any existing damage. The time stamp on the pictures and video can be used as verification.
• Dashboard: Take a photo of the dashboard showing the current fuel level and odometer reading, both when picking up and dropping off the car.
• Interior check: Quickly check the interior for any stains, tears, or missing accessories like floor mats.

When dropping off the car:

• Repeat the documentation: Take a final set of photos or video of the clean and refueled car (if applicable).
• Get the sign-off: If possible, wait for the agent to inspect the vehicle and sign a final return receipt confirming no new damage. Do not lose this receipt.

Plan ahead for success

Remember that car rental prices and policies vary by location, company, and season. Start your research early and consider all these factors together to find the best deal for your needs. Check travel websites like ours to compare options and find competitive rates.

By following these money-saving strategies, you can reduce your car rental costs without sacrificing the quality of your trip. This leaves more room in your budget for other travel experiences – and that's what making memories is all about.