How to Use Membership Clubs & Hidden Promo Codes for Lower Rental Car Rates

• 1 - #understanding-membership-clubs-for-rental-cars
• 2 - #how-to-find-hidden-promo-codes-for-rental-cars
• 3 - #top-membership-clubs-and-loyalty-programs-for-rental-cars
• 4 - #tips-for-maximizing-rental-car-savings
• 5 - #other-strategies-to-reduce-car-rental-costs

1 - Understanding Membership Clubs for Rental Cars

Membership clubs and loyalty programs are one of the best ways to save on rental cars. Many rental car companies offer exclusive benefits to members, which can include discounted rates, priority booking, and additional perks such as free upgrades or extended rental periods. Signing up for these programs is often free or available for a small annual fee, making it an easy and effective way to unlock savings.

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2 - How to Find Hidden Promo Codes for Rental Cars

Promo codes can be a game changer when it comes to lowering rental car rates. Here are some tips for finding hidden promo codes:

• Check the Company’s Official Website: Many rental car companies post exclusive codes for promotions directly on their websites, often in the form of flash sales or seasonal offers.
• Sign Up for Newsletters: Rental car companies frequently send out promotional codes to their email subscribers. By signing up for newsletters, you can be among the first to know about discounts.
• Use Coupon Websites: Websites such as RetailMeNot, Coupons.com, and Groupon often feature rental car promo codes that can be used for a variety of companies.
• Look for Codes on Social Media: Rental car companies sometimes share special promo codes on their social media platforms, so make sure to follow them on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

3 - Top Membership Clubs and Loyalty Programs for Rental Cars

If you're looking to get the most out of your rental experience, joining a membership club or loyalty program can provide you with substantial savings. Below are some of the top programs to consider:

• Enterprise Plus: Enterprise’s loyalty program rewards frequent renters with points that can be redeemed for free rental days, upgrades, and exclusive offers.
• Hertz Gold Plus Rewards: With Hertz’s program, members earn points for every rental, which can be used for free rentals or upgrades. Members also enjoy expedited pick-up and drop-off.
• National Emerald Club: National’s Emerald Club is perfect for business travelers. It allows members to skip the counter and choose their own vehicle from the Emerald Aisle. It also offers faster check-in and return options.
• Avis Preferred: Avis offers a membership program with perks like faster service, free upgrades, and exclusive discounts for members who rent frequently.

4 - Tips for Maximizing Rental Car Savings

To get the best rental car deals, keep the following tips in mind:

• Book Early: Booking your rental car in advance can help you lock in lower rates and avoid last-minute price hikes.
• Pick Up and Drop Off at the Same Location: Many rental car companies charge extra fees for one-way rentals, so if possible, choose to return the car to the same location to save money.
• Use Discount Sites: Check third-party websites like Expedia or Kayak for discounted rates, as these platforms often have deals that are not available through the rental car companies directly.
• Avoid Additional Fees: Be cautious of extra charges such as additional driver fees, GPS rental, and insurance options. Consider using your own GPS or smartphone instead to avoid paying extra for these services.

5 - Other Strategies to Reduce Car Rental Costs

In addition to using promo codes and loyalty programs, here are some other strategies to reduce your rental car costs:

• Check for Corporate Discounts: Many companies offer discounts to employees. If your company has a corporate rental agreement, make sure to check if you’re eligible for any savings.
• Consider Smaller Cars: Renting a smaller vehicle can help save money on both the rental cost and fuel. Unless you need extra space, opt for compact or economy vehicles.
• Bring Your Own Accessories: If you're traveling with a child or need additional equipment, avoid renting items like child car seats or ski racks from the rental company. Instead, bring your own to save money.