Get the Best Deal on a Rental Car

AppId is over the quota
AppId is over the quota

We recently went to Orlando for a family vacation. It had been a while since we had rented a car, and we were surprised by the creative things that the rental companies are doing to tack on extra fees. You are usually presented with a hard sell at the counter, and the companies use scare tactics to rob you of your money. Here are some tips to get the best deal on a rental car.

The first option was the prepaid gas. We have always been aware that we needed to fill up the gas tank before returning the car. However, the companies now offer pre-paid gas. Be careful, or you will be paying for gas that you never used! If you choose to fill up the tank before you return the car, the companies are requiring that you keep the receipt from the last fill up. If the gas station is not within 10 miles of the rental office, they will charge you a fill up fee.

The second fee that shocked us was the early return fee. If you return your vehicle a day early, some companies will actually charge you $15 more!

The rental agent also advised us that we needed to activate the SunPass transponder. He stated that there were many un-manned toll booths in Orlando, and we really needed the transponder. They wanted an additional $6 to activate it. A little research revealed that the SunPass Mini Sticker transponder is available at authorized SunPass retailers for just $4.99 plus tax. If you travel to Florida, once in while, it would be worth investing in this sticker. By the way, we never encountered an un-manned toll.

The GPS cost $13 per day, and satellite radio was an additional $3 per day. We brought our own GPS, and listened to regular radio. Also, car seats will cost about $11 per day.

Probably the scariest decision is whether to purchase the collision damage waiver. You are told that if anything happens to the car, you will be responsible. They make it sound like you will need to pay for the damage out-of-pocket and up front. They will advise you that they will not deal with your insurance company. I worked as an adjuster for years. They will deal with your insurance company. If you carry collision on your personal vehicle, check with your agent before leaving home. Ask what will be covered should something happen to your rental car, and what your deductible would be. In most cases the damage will be covered in full, but make sure you ask your insurance company before renting the car. In addition, if you used a credit card to rent the car, your credit card may cover any gaps in coverage as long as you decline the addition coverage from the rental company. Call your your credit card company and ask before renting the car.

The last tip I have for you is to shop around. Check with the clubs that you belong to see if they offer member discounts. Book early, and then keep checking the rates. We were able to re-book our rental twice. We got an SUV for $20/per day plus tax!

So, if you will be renting in the future:

Fill up the tank within 10 miles of the rental office, and keep the receipt.Check to see if there are any tolls in the area, and possibly purchase a transponder in advance, or bring yours with you.Bring your GPS.Bring your child's car seat. Most airlines will check this as luggage.Check with your insurance company and credit card to see what insurance will cover.Book early, and keep checking prices. Re-book if you can get a better deal.

I hope these tips will help you save some money, get the best deal on a rental car and enjoy your vacation!

For more great money saving tips visit http://livingonabeerbudget.com/. Subscribe to the mailing list and receive a free budget workbook or spreadsheet. Thanks!