What to look for when renting a car?

It depends. If getting a good deal is the most important thing to you, then waiting may make sense. But if having your pick of cars is a priority, then sooner is better.

“If you book at the very last minute, you can typically get the best prices,” said Hayley Berg, lead economist at the booking website Hopper. “If you have a lot of flexibility, definitely consider waiting until the last minute. The risk you do run is they do sell out.”

However, Elie Michaels, vice president of operations at Advantage Rent A Car, said waiting until the last minute isn’t always a good idea.

“The sooner, the better, as is the case with any type of service provider,” he said. “We are typically aggressive on the rates 2-3 months out, but we always keep a close eye on holiday weekends or things that could increase demand.”

Berg added that if you don’t want to wait, it’s a good idea to reserve a rental car when you make the rest of your travel plans.

“I would book your rental car when you book your flight, assuming you’re taking a flight and picking up your rental car when you get to the airport,” she said.

How much do rental cars usually cost?

Car rental prices have decreased significantly since spiking last summer and earlier during the pandemic.

“The average rental car is about $50 a day, and that’s down 20-25% compared to this time last year,” Berg said. “Those travelers who are renting cars are going to see relief both on the rental cost and on the gas prices.”

Should I get rental car insurance?

Both Berg and Michaels said this is a matter of renter preference.

“The best advice will be for the customer to contact their personal car insurance company to understand directly from them what is covered, what is not covered, what is covered in the state they’re traveling to,” Michaels said. “Understanding it directly from their insurance company would give them enough information to make a dedicated decision at the time of rental.”

SOURCE: USA TODAY

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