We decide by a show of hands - who wants to pay full price when hiring a car? Nobody? That's right, nobody! While rental companies would be happy to charge you full price, there are discount codes and coupons just waiting to be used by the savvy consumer and are easier to obtain than you might think. In fact, you may already be eligible for repeat rental discounts and not know it. Read on, and we'll show you how to qualify for a discount on your next car rental.
Steps
Step 1. Check existing relationships for any benefits
There are hundreds of car rental coupons and discount codes that you can get just for being a member of certain associations.
- Are you associated with a frequent flight program, car club, travel club, or any other group that has had discounts for you in the past? Many members of organizations, clubs, associations, for example, can benefit from car rental discounts.
- Some insurance companies may have coverage that includes free rental while the car is being repaired.
- Visit the websites of the organizations you belong to, or check the flyers they send you that usually end up in the trash can without even being read.
- You can also call the rental company's toll-free number and ask if there are discounts in their programs or to join. Agents will be able to access the appropriate discount code and give you the quotes.
Step 2. Look for discounts associated with your job
Car rental agencies like to make deals with companies because this guarantees repeat business. Check with your Human Resources manager to see if the company you work for has any such agreements in place.
If you are self-employed or own a small business, many agencies will offer you discounts for repeat rentals in exchange for long-term loyalty. Shop around to see which company seems most trustworthy and offers the best program. Call any car rental company and ask to join so you can receive discounts, coupons and special offers. Most car rental websites also offer the option to sign up for an account for companies and businesses. You will receive a car rental discount code that you can use right away
Step 3. Book with a company that offers discounts
Well-known online booking companies such as Travelocity, Orbitz, Expedia and Kayak advertise car rental discounts as part of their offers. Priceline.com for example offers savings of up to 40% on car rentals through their home page.
Step 4. Look for discounts associated with your travel destination
Resorts and theme parks in popular locations, as well as hotels and related companies often offer car rental discounts to travelers to stand out from the competition.
Step 5. Look for travel package deals
If you plan to take a plane, train or ferry, you can get a discount depending on the company you travel with before renting a car.
Step 6. Search online coupon codes
There is a myriad of sites that offer general coupons (RetailMeNot.com, CouponCodes.com, CurrentCodes.com, for example), and sites that offer specific car rental coupons (RentalCodes.com, RentalCarMomma.com). Be sure to shop around to find the best deals and to keep an eye on proposals where multiple coupons can be used cumulatively (rare but very affordable).
Advice
- If you call to book a rental car and don't have any association offering discounts, ask the rental agent if there are "special deals" or "offers". Most companies allow their agents to offer generic discount codes to lower your rate… but only if you ask!
- Compare any discounts compared to special offers offered directly on a rental agency's website. Most special offers cannot be combined with the discount code but still may allow you a cheaper rate.
