Car Rental Advice

Do you have a Costco membership? They have good rates usually. I always make a reservation as soon as I book my flight, then check periodically for lower rates… up until my day of travel. Don’t prepay.

I always check Costco first, after that I use Kayak. I've gotten decent rates with my capital one card through their travel portal as well.

I have used Costco and the rates are good but if you buy the insurance thru Costco when you make the reservation it is a 3rd party deal. I was told by the agent at the counter that I would still have to pay for damages and then get my money back from the 3rd party company.

I have liability on a rental but no physical damage coverage. I think my credit card covers damage but I get vague answers from them. Depends on where I am if I get the coverage from the rent company. This particular rental was MSY and there is a greater than zero chance of some damage.

I usually use corporate codes (the leisure ones) and book through Hertz/National/Avis.

I've got status with all 3 and book whatever is cheapest

I would look first with any place you may be a member that provides discounts - Costco, Sams, AAA, a professional organization, etc. After that, I've always found Hotwire to have some of the better rates, although these days, they are not always that much better. The cost of rental cars have skyrocketed over the last few years.

Appreciate all of the advice. I’ll start with Costco and AAA then go from there.

When I’m renting for trips, I usually start with Costco too, just to compare rates. But I’ve found that if I need something fancier or want a specific model, like a convertible or a high-end SUV, it's better to go outside the usual big-name companies. The quality and condition of the vehicle really varies, and I hate rolling the dice on that. I’ve had issues before with basic rentals showing up with more wear than expected, especially during peak travel times.

For trips to New York, I’ve used this service that operates in Manhattan and had a Porsche delivered directly to my hotel. Super smooth process and the car was spotless. Worth it if you're looking for a premium ride and don't want the hassle of going to a rental counter—check out this car rental services on https://realcar.nyc/locations/manhattan if that's part of your plans.

quote:

---

A good tip is to video a walk-around of your rental car before you leave the lot

---

And at drop off. Car rental at ORD tried to charge me over $1k for damage that wasn't on the car THREE MONTHS after I turned it in.

If you're renting in a tornado prone place, check for hail damage. I turned in a car in OKC, and of the 60 cars at the turn in lanes, mine was the only one without hail damage.

Take pics of the car before you drive it off the lot. Also make note if it smells like smoke or has any interior damage.

Can’t tell you how many times I’ve been billed for damage that I didn’t cause. Learned my lesson one time and now I always have pictures to refute their claims