How to Find the Cheapest Car Rentals

Rental car prices vary wildly between companies and booking windows. Here are the strategies that consistently deliver the lowest rates.

1. Book Early -- Prices Rise Fast

Unlike flights, rental car prices almost always increase as your pickup date approaches. Booking 2--4 weeks ahead typically saves 20--40% versus booking the day before. The earlier the better, especially for peak travel periods.

2. Skip the Rental Counter Insurance

Rental company collision damage waivers (CDW) cost $15--35/day and are heavily marked up. Check your credit card benefits first -- many travel cards (Chase Sapphire, Capital One Venture, Amex Gold) provide primary or secondary rental car coverage when you pay with the card.

3. Airport vs. Off-Airport Locations

Airport rental locations are convenient but add 10--30% in airport concession fees and taxes. If you can get to an off-airport location by rideshare or shuttle, you can save significantly -- just factor in the transportation cost.

4. Fuel Up Before You Return

Rental companies charge 2--3x the local gas price for refueling. Always return the car with a full tank. Find a gas station near the return location before you go -- Google Maps works perfectly for this.

5. Book the Right Size Car

Avoid booking "compact" hoping for an upgrade -- it rarely happens anymore. Book the exact size you need. Economy and compact cars are significantly cheaper on fuel. Midsize is the sweet spot for comfort on longer road trips.

6. Check Membership Discounts

AAA, AARP, Costco Travel, and corporate accounts all offer significant car rental discounts. Costco Travel in particular regularly offers 20--30% off Hertz and Avis rates -- check before you book.

Compare rental car prices now. Our search tool checks Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Alamo, National, Dollar, and 500+ more in seconds.

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Major Rental Companies Compared

CompanyBest ForLoyalty ProgramOne-Way Rentals
EnterpriseBest overall valueEnterprise PlusYes
HertzLoyalty & airport coverageHertz Gold PlusYes
NationalBusiness travelersEmerald ClubYes
AlamoBudget-friendly leisureAlamo InsidersYes
AvisInternational coverageAvis PreferredYes
BudgetLowest base ratesBudget FastbreakYes
SixtPremium cars, EuropeSixt loyaltyYes

Popular Car Rental Destinations

Cancun Airport
from $18/day
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Las Vegas
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Miami Airport
from $25/day
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Los Angeles
from $28/day
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Orlando Airport
from $20/day
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Denver Airport
from $24/day
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Frequently Asked Questions

Most rental companies in the US require drivers to be at least 25. Drivers aged 21--24 can often still rent but pay a "young driver surcharge" of $15--35/day. Some companies like Enterprise and National rent to drivers 21+ without a surcharge. International age requirements vary by country.
Check your credit card benefits before purchasing rental company insurance. Many travel credit cards (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Capital One Venture, Amex Gold) include primary or secondary rental car coverage. Your personal auto insurance policy may also extend to rentals. Rental company insurance is legitimate protection but is heavily marked up.
Yes -- most major rental companies offer one-way rentals, though they typically charge a one-way fee that can range from $25 to several hundred dollars depending on the distance. Sometimes one-way fees are waived when rental companies need cars relocated.
The base rate includes the vehicle and basic liability insurance (in most jurisdictions). Not usually included: collision damage waiver (CDW), theft protection, GPS, child seats, additional driver fees, fuel, and any applicable taxes and surcharges. Always check the total price including all fees.
Off-airport locations are typically 10--30% cheaper because they avoid mandatory airport concession fees. However, factor in the cost and time to reach an off-airport location. For short rentals, the convenience of the airport often outweighs the price difference.