10 Tips for Renting a Car That Will Save You a Fortune

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10 Tips for Renting a Car That Will Save You a Fortune

Things to Keep in Mind When Renting a Car

Everyone wants to save money when renting a car, but just a few small mistakes can turn a great deal into an expensive nightmare. I once had a rather funny yet frustrating experience renting from Enterprise in Pennsylvania. Knowing I would be passing through toll booths, the staff suggested I use a transponder device for a daily fee of $5. Instead, I decided to buy my own and added the rental car's license plate to my E-ZPass account. I thought I was all set, but I later realized I forgot to remove that plate, and ended up paying tolls for the next renter!

Document the Condition of the Car

Many people have faced hefty repair bills simply because they didn’t document the car’s condition before and after their rental. Don’t forget to take photos and videos as evidence in case any disputes arise. Make sure to check the interior, exterior, undercarriage, and roof of the vehicle to avoid unexpected charges later on.

Avoid Paying Upfront

Paying for your rental in advance is often not beneficial, as the price difference is usually minimal and often non-refundable. If you choose to pay upfront, make sure to purchase travel insurance in case your plans change.

Steer Clear of Airport Rentals

Renting a car directly at the airport often comes with high service fees. Instead, you can save a lot by renting from locations outside the airport. A short taxi ride could save you a significant amount of money.

Take Advantage of AAA Membership Benefits

Utilizing your AAA membership can lead to significant savings when renting a car, especially if you’re under 25. Companies like Hertz often waive additional driver fees and provide free child seats for members.

Don’t Change Your Reservation

Altering your rental dates after making a reservation can cause you to lose your special rate and incur higher fees. Make sure to stick to the signed contract to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Check Reviews of the Rental Location

It’s wise to research the rental location you’re considering. Read reviews to see if previous customers have faced any unusual fees to mitigate risks.

Review the Terms of Use

Many rental agreements come with mileage restrictions. Be sure to check if your contract includes unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges.

Clean the Car Before Returning

If the rental car is too dirty, the company may charge a cleaning fee of up to $500. To avoid this, take a little time to tidy up before you return the vehicle.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Make sure you have insurance for the rental car. While rental companies often don’t require you to show proof of insurance, don’t skip this step to ensure you’re protected.

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