10 Ways to Save Money When Renting a Car for a Road Trip

• 1. Book Your Car Rental in Advance
• 2. Compare Prices from Different Rental Companies
• 3. Choose an Economy Car
• 4. Skip the Rental Insurance (If You’re Covered)
• 5. Look for Discounts and Promotions
• 6. Avoid Renting at Airports
• 7. Stick to the Basic Rental Plan
• 8. Refuel the Car Yourself
• 9. Consider Long-Term Rentals
• 10. Explore More Deals with LifeStar Car Rental

1. Book Your Car Rental in Advance

One of the easiest ways to save money on car rentals is to book your vehicle well in advance. Rental prices can fluctuate depending on demand, and booking early often locks in better rates. Plus, you’ll have more options to choose from, which means you’re more likely to find a deal that fits your budget.

When planning a road trip, booking your car rental ahead of time can help you avoid higher prices that tend to spike closer to your travel dates. Many rental companies offer early-bird discounts, so it’s a good idea to book as soon as you finalize your road trip plans.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

CoronaRiverside CountyCalifornia

852 W 6th St, Corona, CA 92882, USA

2. Compare Prices from Different Rental Companies

Not all car rental companies offer the same prices for the same vehicle. That's why it’s important to compare prices from different rental companies. Websites like Kayak, Expedia, or Rentalcars allow you to easily compare rental rates across multiple providers.

Additionally, check the rental company’s website for any exclusive discounts or offers they may have. Some car rental companies provide special promotions or lower rates if you book directly through their site.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

HolyokeHampden CountyMassachusetts

1615 Northampton St, Holyoke, MA 01040, USA

3. Choose an Economy Car

When it comes to saving money on car rentals, the type of car you choose can make a big difference. Economy cars are typically the most affordable option and offer the best value for road trips. They are fuel-efficient, which will save you money on gas, and they are usually less expensive to rent than larger vehicles like SUVs or minivans.

While you may be tempted to rent a larger car for extra comfort or space, choosing an economy car is often the most budget-friendly option for long road trips.

4. Skip the Rental Insurance (If You’re Covered)

Many car rental companies offer additional insurance coverage, but you may not need it if you’re already covered by your personal car insurance or credit card. Before purchasing additional coverage, check with your insurer to see if you’re covered for rental cars.

If you are covered, declining the rental insurance can save you a significant amount of money. Just be sure to check the terms and conditions of your insurance coverage to avoid any surprises if you need to file a claim.

5. Look for Discounts and Promotions

There are many discounts available for car rentals that you may not know about. Some car rental companies offer discounts for AAA members, frequent flyer programs, or through credit card rewards. Additionally, websites like Groupon often feature car rental deals for specific locations.

Another way to save is by signing up for rental companies’ loyalty programs. These programs often provide members with exclusive discounts, free upgrades, or special offers that can make your rental more affordable.

6. Avoid Renting at Airports

Although renting a car at the airport is convenient, it often comes with additional fees and higher rates due to the airport surcharge. To save money, try renting from a location outside of the airport. You can often find nearby rental offices offering the same vehicles at a lower price.

Look for off-airport rental locations in your destination city or check for shuttle services that transport you to rental facilities. This can help you avoid extra airport fees and save you money on your car rental.

7. Stick to the Basic Rental Plan

Most car rental companies offer a range of plans and add-ons, including options for GPS, satellite radio, or roadside assistance. While these extras may seem tempting, sticking to the basic rental plan can help you save a significant amount of money.

Instead of paying extra for a GPS system, use your smartphone’s navigation app. Similarly, most roadside assistance can be provided by your own insurance, so consider skipping this add-on unless you’re traveling to areas where service may be spotty.

8. Refuel the Car Yourself

Many car rental companies offer a “prepaid” refuel option, where you pay for a full tank of gas upfront, but this can be costly. Instead, refuel the car yourself before returning it to avoid paying for gas at a higher price. Make sure to fill up at a gas station near the rental return location to avoid any additional charges for unreturned fuel.

9. Consider Long-Term Rentals

If you’re planning a road trip that will span several weeks or months, consider a long-term rental. Many car rental companies offer discounts for long-term rentals, which can be more cost-effective than renting a car on a weekly basis. If your trip is extended, this could be a great way to save money while ensuring you have a reliable vehicle for the duration of your travels.

10. Explore More Deals with LifeStar Car Rental

If you're looking for the best deals on car rentals for your road trip, check out LifeStar Car Rental. Our platform offers affordable rental options with flexible terms, allowing you to find the perfect car for your trip without breaking the bank. We provide access to special discounts, loyalty programs, and a wide selection of vehicles to make your road trip experience even better.