Good morning! I need to rent a car for a few days during a trip. I'm looking at all these companies -- most of the big ones and some random ones are inside the Orlando airport where I'll be picking up and returning the car. I have never done this before and I'm totally overwhelmed. Can you all please share your tips for companies you like, how I can maybe get discounts, anything else I don't know... Doesn't have to be specific to Orlando -- just general advice would be great!
Thank you!
I get my best rates from National or Alamo, same company, but sometimes have different rates for same car. Also, it's easier to stick to something at the airport or one that has direct airport transportation. I rented a car once in Atlanta and it was off site, we had to take a cab there and and a cab back to the airport, we almost missed our flight. Something to think about.
They'll make it easy for you-think about style and sunshine, and rent a convertible!
Last year, I planned on picking up a car in Orlando once our trip to Disney was complete. We were then off to visit family. I didn't know that there was an onsite Alamo (I think it was) right near the Disney gate. Can I tell you - the cost of renting the car NOT at the airport was about $200 less! $200!!!! Renting at the airport is always the most expensive option.
So, it might be worth it for you to see if there is another place to grab the car from.
Also, I found decent deals through BJs since I am a member. So if you are part of Sam's Club or Costco, try going through them.
I have used Hotwire.com to book car rentals at least 6 different times, in various states. It is hands down the most cost-effective way to go and they use all the major companies. With hotwire, you will choose the pick up location (airports are best so you are in luck there), and the style of car and cost, but you won't know the carrier until you pay online. Once you pay, they'll send you an email w/ the company. Companies that I've been assigned to in the past have been Enterprise, Alamo and Hertz. Also, the further in advance that you book it through hotwire, the best price you'll get.
I'll agree with Victoria and go one step further. If you have a choice between a company that shuttles you to their office, and one that's right at the airport, choose the onsite company. Getting the shuttle is an extra hassle, which to me is not worth savng a few dollars.
And the general recommendation when you get there is to *not* buy the extra insurance they try to push on you when you take the car. Your own insurance policy should cover you.
I rent cars all the time for hubby when he is on the road. We spend about $1000 a month on rental cars due to our company business travel, etc.
We now have a corporate rate with several companies as well as the frequent renter program and that helps the overall costs. Right now I use Thrifty a lot. We'be had good experiences with Alamo as well. Hertz is probably the most expensive.
Remember to ALWAYS make sure you have unlimited mileage and make sure there are no clauses that say the car cannot be driven across a state line.
IF you have to drop off in another location, make sure you ask upfront. ONE time, I did not ask up front and by chance, hubby had an emergency and just drove to the next location. That costs us an extra $700 due to mileage in another state and drop off in another state.
Don't buy the extras as far as insurance,etc. Your personal insurance covers you as well as MOST times the credit card you use to rent the car. SO that $$ is just gravy to the rental companies because they know they can scare many people into accepting it.
Renting to and from a good airport helps cut costs. Also, if you are in an outlying area, sometimes Enterprise has good deals and they do come pick you up.
Good luck! Once you do it a couple of times it will be second nature to you!
Not sure about a company to rent from but the best advice regardless of how you get the rental ,take pictures of any, and I mean A-N-Y dents, scratches etc that are on the car when you get it. Make sure anything is listed on the rental form as well. And when you return it, make sure to do the same. Do not let them say all is good without doing a full walk around.
Sign up to be a club member wherever you rent so you can go right to your car, I forgot to renew and waiting at the counter in line was the most annoying part if a long day if travel. Bring your own cars seats they are free to check, and get gas near your hotel, there is no station near the airport and they will charge an arm and leg if it isn't returned full. Have fun!!
