Car rentals can be an essential part of traveling, offering the convenience and flexibility of having your own transportation. However, the cost of rentals can sometimes be steep. If you’re renting with Dollar Rent a Car, there are several strategies you can use to reduce costs. Here are 15 ways to save on Dollar Car Rentals:
Book in Advance: Rental car prices often rise as you get closer to the pick-up date, especially during peak seasons. Booking a few weeks or months ahead can often secure a better rate.
Use Discount Codes: Dollar Rent a Car frequently offers promotional codes that provide a percentage off the total cost. Check their website and promotional emails, or use online coupon websites to find current discount codes.
Join Dollar Express Rewards: Dollar’s loyalty program allows you to earn points with each rental, which can be redeemed for free rental days. It also offers perks such as quicker reservations, counter bypass privileges, and members-only discounts.
Prepay for Your Rental: If your plans are definite, consider taking advantage of Dollar’s prepaid rental option. This typically offers a lower rate than the pay-later option, but bear in mind that cancellation or modification fees may apply.
Avoid Airport Pick-up: Airport rental locations often have higher prices due to added airport concession fees. If you can, arrange to pick up your rental from a non-airport location to potentially get a cheaper rate.
Limit the Number of Drivers: Extra driver fees can increase the total cost of your rental. If possible, stick with one driver to save money.
Check Your Own Auto Insurance: Before you add Dollar’s insurance coverage to your rental, check your own auto insurance policy. Many policies already cover rental cars, so you could be duplicating coverage and spending unnecessary money.
Reserve a Compact Car: If you don’t need a lot of space, consider reserving the smallest car class available. These cars are usually cheaper to rent, and if none are available when you arrive, you may receive a free upgrade.
Fill the Gas Tank Yourself: Rental companies often charge inflated prices to refill the gas tank. Plan to stop at a nearby gas station before you return the car to avoid these extra costs.
Return Your Rental on Time: Late return fees can quickly escalate. Make sure to return your car at the designated time. If you need to extend your rental, call Dollar to modify your reservation, which can be cheaper than paying the late return fees.
Look for Weekly Rental Deals: If you’re planning a longer trip, check Dollar’s weekly rental rates. These often offer better value compared to the daily rates.
Use a Cashback Credit Card: Some credit cards offer cashback on car rentals. If you have one, use it to book your rental and earn some money back.
Ask About Corporate Discounts: If you’re traveling for work, ask if your company has a corporate discount with Dollar. Some companies also allow their employees to use these discounts for personal travel.
Check Prices on Booking Sites: Online travel booking sites often have deals with rental car companies. Before booking directly with Dollar, compare prices on sites like Expedia or Priceline.
Look for Partnership Deals: Dollar partners with several airlines, hotels, and other businesses. You may be eligible for special discounts, bonus points, or other benefits when booking through one of these partners.
By incorporating these strategies, you can reduce your rental car costs significantly. Whether you’re traveling for work or vacation, these savings can help make your trip more affordable and enjoyable. With a little planning and savvy, you’ll be able to enjoy the convenience of a rental car without breaking the bank.
