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Home » Planning

8 Essential Car Rental Tips for Travelers

Modified: May 22, 2025 · Published: Jul 11, 2022 by John Turnbuckle |

Are you looking forward to visiting a new place or traveling abroad? If so, then car rental services are worth considering. They offer convenience and flexibility at affordable prices.

Car rentals are becoming increasingly popular because they allow travelers to save time and energy. The service also offers added benefits such as safety and security. Here are some essential car rental tips to ensure a safe and hassle-free experience.

A key car rental tip is choosing the right type of vehicle for your trip. Pictured: car and driver in Death Valley, USA (photo: Jamie Street)
Death Valley, USA (photo: Jamie Street)

Table of Contents

  • Car Rental Tips
    • 1. Book Early
    • 2. Use Comparison Websites
    • 3. Know What You Want
    • 4. Choose the Right Supplier
    • 5. Check Mileage Policy
    • 6. Read Terms and Conditions
    • 7. Check Fuel Consumption
    • 8. Ask For a Discount
  • Conclusion

Car Rental Tips

1. Book Early

Booking early means getting the best deals and discounts. This is especially true for car rentals.

When booking a rental car, always book at least two weeks before your trip date. This lets you compare rates from different suppliers and choose the best deal.

If you travel to a top city, like Orlando, and want to find an economy car rental at Orlando Airport, book it a month in advance.

2. Use Comparison Websites

Use comparison websites to check prices and read reviews of car hire companies. They usually offer special offers and discounts.

Comparison sites like EconomyBookings.com will list car rental companies in your destination city, along with prices and reviews from previous customers. 

3. Know What You Want

When renting a car, you must know what vehicle you require. Do you need a compact car, SUV, van, or minivan? Are you looking for a luxury model or economy class? Will you be driving long distances or only on local trips? Knowing what you want will help you select the right car. 

4. Choose the Right Supplier

Choose a reputable company with good ratings and reviews. Avoid companies with low ratings and poor customer service. Choosing the right supplier is essential if you rent a car.

The best suppliers will offer various services, including insurance, breakdown coverage, fuel delivery, 24/7 customer service, and roadside assistance. 

Related: Driving Around Oahu, Hawaii

Man and woman hanging out with car (photo: Erik Odiin)
Hanging out (photo: Erik Odiin)

5. Check Mileage Policy

Check the mileage limit on the rental contract. Most rental agreements state the maximum number of miles you can drive daily. This helps you determine whether you can cover the entire trip by driving. It also shows you when you need to refuel the car.

6. Read Terms and Conditions

Check the terms and conditions before signing any contract. When renting a car, you should always read the fine print carefully. This will ensure you understand everything in the agreement and what happens if you break the rules.

7. Check Fuel Consumption

Check the fuel consumption rate before leaving home. If you plan to rent a car for several days, consider getting a cheaper model.

8. Ask For a Discount

Most rental agencies offer discounts for booking multiple rentals. So if you rent a car for two weeks, ask for a deal, and they will often give you a substantial discount.

Conclusion

In summary, whether you're planning a road trip across the country or a weekend jaunt around town, renting a car is necessary for travel. However, it doesn't have to be a hassle. With these simple tips, you can rent a car without spending hours searching for deals and haggling over prices.

______

This story is brought to you in partnership with Economy Bookings.

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Dave at Ahu Ko Te Riku on Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile.

Hi, I'm Dave

Editor in Chief

I've been writing about adventure travel on Go Backpacking since 2007. I've visited 68 countries.

Read more about Dave.

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