Rental Cars – Drive away with the best deal

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Renting a car should be cheaper than buying one. Remember these tips the next time you rent, and you’ll be able to spend all that extra money on vacation souvenirs.

* Book early. If you make the reservation for a rental car at least 7 to 14 days in advance, you are more likely to get a lower rate. Since rental car companies don’t charge cancellation fees, book a car as soon as you can. If you have to make a booking at the last minute, opt for smaller rental companies. Their rates are usually lower, and most of their business comes from the last-minute bookings.

* Avoid the prepaid gas option – the one that lets you return the car without filling up the tank. Rental companies don’t refund you for the gas you didn’t use. Also, most of the time the prepaid rates for gas are higher than what you could find at the gas station. Just don’t forget to refill your tank before you return the car. The charge for gas you didn’t replace can be twice or three times the usual price.

* Compare the daily rate with the weekly rate. Often, the weekly rate is so low it’s actually cheaper to keep the car a few more days. In some cases, the charge for a week will be less than a three-day rental.

* Join a frequent renter club if there’s one company you use again and again. The membership is free, and you generally get 5 to 15 percent off each rental. Some clubs let you earn points toward a free rental. Other incentives include, express lines, free upgrades, and frequent-flyer miles.

* Choose a smaller car if you’re headed overseas. Small cars get better gas mileage. In foreign countries, gas prices are close to $4 a gallon.



All the best,



Timben