Three Ways to Save on Car Rentals

Many travelers don't pay enough attention to car rental arrangements. Car rental costs are the most variable of travel expenses, affording great savings opportunities if you know how to find them. Car rental is still a great bargain -- it costs more to rent a lawnmower or tuxedo in most cities. But costs are escalating, especially in the form of surcharges, so it definitely pays to shop around.

Check Out as Many Different Rental Agencies as Possible. Rates and restrictions vary dramatically. A travel agent who knows how to use his or her computer is a great help here, because with one phone call you can compare the rates of all major and most minor companies -- there are frequently as many as 20 at a major airport. Be sure to ask about additional charges for things such as extra days, additional drivers, dropping off at a different location, and excess mileage. Note that agency computers are not well designed for comparing nonairport locations or one-way rentals -- you may need to make a few calls. Also, don’t assume that your corporate discount number is the lowest rate -- Automobile Club rates are usually lower, and most cities offer promotional rates lower still. Don't Automatically Accept the Loss Damage Waiver. This is a big moneymaker for rental agencies and is usually sold with a mixture of insouciance and scare tactics -- LDW is optional, sir, but if you decline it you are responsible for the full sticker price value of this two-tone Chevy Lumina, plus lost rental revenues and legal fees ..." You may in fact already be covered by your personal or business insurance or your credit card. AmEx, Diners, and most gold bank cards offer some kind of LDW coverage, but be careful -- most is secondary coverage and has a lot of exclusions.

Return the Car with the Tank Full. Pre-purchasing a full or half tank of gas is sometimes a good deal, but if you don’t, be sure to return the car with a full tank of gas. You probably didn’t read all of the fine print, but in reality you signed away the right to have refueling charges governed by reason or restraint.