When it comes to car rental, the first thing you need to know is how much it will cost. This cost will be largely based on the type of car you choose. You can save some money by choosing a car that meets your needs. For example, you may want to go for an economy sedan rather than a luxury or sporty vehicle.
Young driver fee
Young drivers who are under 25 may be eligible to avoid paying the young driver fee when renting a car. If you are an AAA member or a member of a local government agency, your car rental company may waive the fee for you. If not, check with the rental company to see if there are any special offers. Often, the fee can run as much as $50 per day.
Some companies also require drivers to be at least 21 years old to rent a car. They also charge a youth surcharge of $20 per day. Renters under the age of 25 will also be charged for insurance. Despite the fees, these insurance plans are not much more expensive than those for older drivers. There are several ways to avoid paying for additional insurance when renting a car.
Concession fees
Concession fees when renting a car can add up to a large chunk of your rental price. These fees help cover overhead, such as licensing costs and operational expenses. They can also come in the form of a one-time drop-off fee or per-mile rate. In some cases, these fees aren’t stated clearly, but are nonetheless a big part of the total rental cost.
For example, in the Denver International Airport, you’ll be required to pay a ten percent fee for your rental car. This is a standard fee, but it’s unusual to see one on rental cars from off-airport agencies. Because of the monopoly created by national franchises, the fee is high. Off-airport agencies used to charge 5%, but the government eliminated that fee in 2005.
Offsite locations
Choosing an offsite location for your rental car will save you money in more ways than one. First of all, most car rental companies charge a higher rate at airport locations. By choosing an offsite location, you will avoid the airport parking fee and avoid any additional transportation fees. Another benefit is that many rental car companies offer free shuttle service between the airport and their branch locations.
Second, offsite locations are often closer to your rental location. This makes them convenient and often offers a good last-minute deal. However, it’s important to consider the risks of using an offsite location, especially during busy seasons.
Adding-ons
Some of the added-ons to your rental car can be expensive. For example, a GPS system can cost $100 per week. It may not be necessary for you to have a GPS unit when you travel, but it can be a helpful tool when you’re lost. Another option is to rent a car online with a Bluetooth system, which can play your phone’s GPS through speakers. You can also spend another $100 on a child seat, but it may be cheaper to rent a car with one than to add one to your rental.
Sometimes, adding-ons are offered at a discount or even waived altogether. This is because they’re usually sold on commission. It’s a good idea to get a quote from several rental agencies before you make a final decision.