5 smart ways to save money on car rentals

Before the pandemic most vacationers turned to car rentals as a cheaper way to reach their destination. Renting a car was a much-preferred choice for two reasons. First of all, airplanes are a pricier choice than transportation with a vehicle. This meant one could save a considerable amount of money and extend one’s holiday. On the other hand, renting a car could be postponed until the last minute. During the pandemic and due to travel restrictions, most companies were forced to sell part of their fleet to the used cars market to put up with the cost of decreased bookings.

3 factors that increased the prices in car rentals

Once the world turned to normality there were three major factors that skyrocketed the car rentals prices:

A) Enormous increase of the fuel prices

B) Governments all over the world revoked travel restrictions. As a result, the demand for cars has increased. And it’s a certain markets’ law, that once there is demand, the prices rise.

C) Companies found themselves with downsized fleets as a consequence of the lack of vehicles.

Below are some helpful insider tips to avoid being overcharged while renting a car and make the most out of your car rental experience.

1) Rent a car as soon as possible

Start searching to rent a car as soon as you are aware that you will need one. When it comes to bookinga flight it’s common knowledge that the sooner you book, the cheaper tickets you will find. Nowadays, the same applies to renting a car. Once upon a time, you could rent a few days before your vacation, as this was a way to hit great offers. Low inventory and increased demand are parts of the same equation, which finally leads to expensive car rental services. Instead, make your early reservation and not only you will get a better price, but also will find the car of your preference.

2) Cancel without penalty

One great advantage of car rentals is that you can book now and cancel later, without having to pay any type of penalty. Unpredictable events may occur, so you may have to change the dates of traveling or even cancel the entire trip. Most companies provide the flexibility to cancel the booking or postpone it until the next available date. Plus, this way you may hit that great deal we spoke of earlier.

3) Give a second thought to rent a car Athens airport

When your destination is one of the most visited destinations in the world, such as Athens in summer, you might give the rent a car Athens airport option a second thought. Truth be told, renting a car at the airport has its pros and cons. On the one hand, by making an early booking you can skip the queues to the counter and pick up your car instantly. On the other hand, due to the fees each company pays at the airport, renting a car there is a pricier choice. Yet keep in mind that hiring a taxi to get you to the mainland and spending time to find a car rental service might turn out to be a costlier and more exhausting option.

4) How about saving at least 60€ from renting a car?

Once you get to sign your car rental agreement the company will give several types of insurance to sign for. This may add at least 60€, or more than that, to what you are already paying for the vehicle. Before you rush to sign them, check if your personal health insurance, car insurance and get you covered for several occasions such as accidents, thefts, or car break-ins. Do your research before you get to the counter and save yourself some money.

5) Consider becoming a loyal

Loyalty is being rewarded in several ways. One of them is having special prices when you choose to rent a car Athens. Several companies reward their clients for regularly renting cars and offer discounts and several perks. So, if you are planning ahead your trip, check for relevant offers by car rentals.

Whenever possible take advantage of discounts available and tricks to save money when you book. This way you will limit the overwhelming budget and enjoy your trip.