There’s money to be made in the car rental industry and one of the reasons for this is because of the many associated costs that renters aren’t even aware are unnecessary. The goal is to get all the vehicles off the lot at any cost, and if that means cutting a few corners here or there, or upping the ante and giving major discounts, that’s what’s going to happen. Thinking of renting a car but don’t know where to begin? Read on before you enter the world operated by shrewd salespeople.
1. There’s Not As Much Competition As You Think
You may think that you have a lot of choice in the marketplace and that healthy competition between rental car companies keeps them customer-focused. Think again. Lots of the brand names are in bed with each other. For example, did you know that Avis owns Budget and Zipcar, Hertz owns Dollar and Thrifty, Enterprise owns Alamo and National, and Advantage owns E-Z Rent-A-Car? Now you do.
2. Sign Before You Drive
This may bring back some bad memories for some of you, but it’s such as important one that it must be shared to prevent others from experiencing the misfortune. Always sign a vehicle inspection form before leaving car rental offices, and be thorough about it. If you don’t and there’s some kind of damage—that you didn’t cause—chances are you’ll be the one stuck with the blame, and the bill. Do yourself and your bank account a favor and don’t even get into a rental car before giving it a good once-over, documenting any scratch, chip or dent you see and then signing that form.
3. Pricey Underage Driving
Wondering why your friend got to rent a vehicle that was the exact model, on the same day, but your bill was more expensive? Could be because of age. Until you’re twenty-five, car rental companies have no qualms renting to you at more exorbitant prices and there’s nothing you can do about it but keep ticking off birthdays. Don’t be too distraught if you’re under this age though, as there was a time when no one under twenty-five was allowed to rent a car at all.
