How to Compare Car Rental Rates

By Chris Joseph

An important decision before leaving on your golf trip may involve renting a vehicle. To obtain the best rate, you should obtain quotes from a variety of rental car companies. This can be accomplished by getting quotes from the companies individually, and by using an online rate finder that can give you several quotes at one time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Join a motor club or an organization that offers auto benefits if you do not belong to one already. By joining an organization such as AARP, you will gain access to discount codes for a variety of rental companies that will save you money when you compare. For a list of car rental discount codes that are affiliated with particular organizations, click on the link in Resources. If you subscribe to any golf publications, check them for rental car discounts or coupons.

Step 2

Obtain rate quotes from as many different rental car companies as possible by going to their websites and entering your discount codes. Rates can vary greatly depending on factors such as the time of year, the city you are renting in and the type of vehicle. Try to avoid brand loyalty when considering price. Just because a particular company offered the cheapest rate on the last golf trip doesn't mean it will be the cheapest this time around.

Step 3

Use an online tool that will provide you a number of quotes for easy comparison. A company such as CarRentals.com allows you to enter your rental city, when you are traveling, and the type of vehicle you desire. It will then provide you with a list of companies and vehicles, along with their prices, from which to choose.

Step 4

Compare the rates from the online tool with the rates from the rental car companies' websites. You may find that you are able to get an even cheaper rate by taking advantage of special online discounts that may not have been offered through the online tool.

Step 5

Continue to compare the rates frequently if you booked well in advance of your trip. Rental rates can change frequently, so keep checking the online tool and the company websites even after you have made a reservation. If prices drop, you may still be able to negotiate a better deal, even at the last minute.

Tips & Warnings

When comparing rates, be sure to check whether the rate given covers "extras" such as unlimited mileage. Be sure that the car you rent is large enough to carry all of your passengers and golfing accessories such as clubs.

When comparing rates, be sure to check whether the rate given covers "extras" such as unlimited mileage.

Be sure that the car you rent is large enough to carry all of your passengers and golfing accessories such as clubs.

Resources

About The Author

Chris Joseph is a freelance writer residing in Pennsylvania. He has written hundreds of articles for newspapers and the Internet on a variety of topics, including several on golf for GolfLink.com. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from York College of Pennsylvania.

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