- Before looking for a rental, decide about the size, style and other needs you have for the rental. Also decide on how much you are willing to spend.
- Call several different rental agencies. Get their price estimates. Let them know you are checking among several different agents. Some agencies are more willing to deal when they realize you are a comparison shopper. Always ask for their customer satisfaction phone number if it is a national agency and get your agent’s name. Many agencies have to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction or they face sanctions from the corporate office.
- Even different locations of the same rental agency in the same city have different rates. It often depends on what cars they have available. One agent may be out of cars when one across the city is overstocked.
- Ask your travel agent or the rental car company in advance whether your driving record will be checked. Some agencies will not rent to people with bad driving records.
- Ask if there are additional fees beyond the price quoted to you. Make sure you know what the real price of your rental will be.
For More Information:
The American Society of Travel Agents car rental tips
www.astanet.com/travel/cartips.asp.
FTC’s car rental tips: www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/autos/carrent.htm