Summer road trips are a welcomed escape after being cooped up for so long. Just because you want to take a much needed drive doesn't mean you need to break the bank. Renting a car to go on your adventure can sound like an easy endeavor but you don't want to spend all your earnings. Thrillist.com has put together a few tips travel experts recommend when you want to rent a car.
Make sure you book in advance! When demand increases so do the prices. If you book your car rental as soon as possible you can lock in a rate that is more feasible.
Don't pre-pay for your rental. You can get a rate locked in and always cancel or change it at any time. Then if you find a lower rate you can cancel your reservation and take that new price.
Make sure you do not pre-pay for gas. Save that extra money you would spend on fees and taxes by pumping it yourself. Most car rental places want you to fill up within 10 miles of the drop off point. Save your receipt just in case they try to charge you.
We have all heard about Lyft and Uber but do you know about apps like Sixt, Avail and Silvercar? They are rental car services that you can book online.
Many memberships have loyalty club bonuses. Places like Costco, AAA, AARP and USAA, have deals that can be used on car rentals for their members. Also, keep an eye out for promotions that are being run by the rental company so you can save those extra couple bucks.
Don't say yes to GPS. If you have a cell phone you, you already have a navigation system on there. Why pay for something you do not need?
Rental companies offer a $5 per day toll charge. If you can bring your own EZ Pass you will more than likely end up paying less in tolls. You can always just pay them directly at the toll booth as well.
There is no need to buy the insurance they offer you with your car rental. More than likely your own car insurance already has you covered. Some credit cards, like Chase Sapphire Reserve, have travel perks like rental collision damage.
Lastly, make sure you double check your receipt. If you see a fee that you think is on there by mistake or you would just like some explanation, don't be afraid to ask questions. It is much easier to get something removed off of your bill in person rather than over the phone.