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Rental
Cars for Less
by Gary Foreman of The
Dollar Stretcher
Ah,
summertime! Our thoughts turn to travel and vacations. And if
you're like many Americans, some of that time will be spent
behind the wheel of a rental car. We'll spend about $16 billion
this year for rented wheels. So let's take a look at how to get
the best deal on rental cars.
First,
the basics. To rent a car you'll need to be over 25 years of
age, have a valid driver's license and credit card. Many rental
companies will also check your driving record. If you've had a
problem with accidents, tickets or driving while intoxicated you
might not be able to rent a car.
Next,
you'll need to decide how big a car you'll need. Remember that a
"mid-size" isn't the same at all rental companies. Ask
which specific models are included in a class. Make sure that
you'd be reasonably happy with any of the models in that class.
In most cases you won't get a guarantee of a specific make and
model.
You'll
be offered optional insurance. You can buy collision damage
waiver (CDW), liability insurance and coverage for your personal
items in the car. Your current auto or homeowner's policies may
already cover these risks. If they do you don't need any
additional insurance. Even if your auto policy doesn't cover
rental cars, it's possible that your credit card does. Some
provide coverage if you use the card to charge the rental. A
phone call will verify what insurance you have. It's time well
spent.
Ask
specifically about mileage charges. Some companies will charge
for every mile over 100 per day. That's not very far if you're
on vacation.
If
you don't think that the extras are profitable for the industry,
check this out. One consulting firm that specializes in advising
car rental companies brags that they can turn a 7% increase in
sales into a 100% increase in profits. That means the consumer
is buying things they don't use.
Once
you know what you need it's time to go shopping. And, even
though you'll only have the car for a short time, it's worth a
little effort.
As
a general rule, it's good to book your car at the same time that
you book your airline and hotel. Prices can change often. Last
week's best price could be lower today. The more time you have
the better your chances of finding a bargain.
Make
sure that you get the price including all taxes and surcharges.
Have them include any insurance that you might require. Don't
forget to include a car seat or ski rack if you'll need one.
Ask
about discounts. They're available for a wide number of
memberships and affiliations.
If
you'll be using a coupon or an ad, read the fine print
carefully. Sometimes the car advertised is only available on a
'limited basis'. That could mean that by the time you get there
the special won't be available. Find out when you make your
reservation.
Taxes
can vary even within the same destination area. Airport
surcharges are common. The airport charges the rental company
and they pass it along to you. That will translate into a
cheaper rate if you rent from a site outside the airport.
If
your pick-up and drop-off locations are different you may face a
drop-off charge. Find out in advance. Don't forget to ask about
fees for additional drivers.
If
you've had an accident or two you'll want to know whether
they'll check your driving record. It's legal for them to refuse
to rent you a car if your record isn't up to their standards.
You'll be turned away even if you have a reservation.
Renting
a car is definitely one case where you should read all the fine
print. The conditions and limitations could be different than
what you thought the agent has said. If that happens the
contract will be the final word.
Ask
if there's a charge for 'no shows' or early returns. There's
nothing wrong with making a reservation and then canceling it if
you find a better deal later. In fact, you should shop again
before you leave. If you find a better deal, take it. You can
even call the company that you have the reservation with. If you
don't cancel at least once, you're probably not trying hard
enough to find a bargain!
There
are also some things to remember when you go to pick up your
car. If no cars are available in your class, the rental company
should upgrade you to the next larger class without additional
charge.
Be
prepared to show them your driver's license and insurance card.
You'll also need a credit card with a credit balance large
enough for this transaction.
Look
the car over carefully before you leave the lot. Any scratches
or dings should be noted on the rental agreement and initialed
by the rental agent. Proof now is better than your word later.
Find
out about fuel. Some companies will charge you a set amount
regardless of how much gas is in the car when it's returned. If
that's the case do not refuel. You will not receive credit for
your generosity.
If
you are responsible for returning it with a full tank, buy your
own gas. You'll pay less for gas, even near the airport, if you
refill the tank before returning the car.
Usually
rates are for a 24-hour day with a one-hour grace period. So if
you keep the car for 26 hours you'll end up paying for two days
or paying for additional hours at an hourly rate.
When
you return the car make sure that they inspect it for any
damages. You want them to acknowledge that you returned the car
without any new wrinkles.
So
there you have it. Even if you've never rented a car before, a
little extra time and effort can help insure a wonderful trip.
Happy vacationing!
Gary
Foreman is a former purchasing manager who currently edits The
Dollar Stretcher website www.stretcher.com/save.htm
and ezines. You'll find hundreds of free articles to save you
time and money. Visit Today!
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