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How do I save money on car rental rates ?

Shop the Internet for quick comparisons of the many rental car companies rates.
Do the same if you may possibly purchase extra items such as insurance. Those rates vary also and you need to comparison shop.
Check the mileage policy to be sure that it is favorable and that you will not incur extra charges.
Remember, airport fees are usually quite high so consider a non airport location. Even if the company has an "off-airport location", you'll probably still have to pay some airport fees.
Check the company's various airport and non airport locations. One may offer better deals than the other. Always ask if what is offered is the best rate they have available.
Book early, as soon as you have decided on your travel plans. Rental car companies raise rates as their fleets become booked. Certain classes of car will sell out faster and you may be forced to pay for a larger vehicle than you need.
Be flexible about your travel plans. It can save you money. All companies have great weekend specials. Also, the best rates are found during the off season and when they have a surplus of cars.
Consider booking your vacation as a package. You probably can save money by booking a car along with a particular airline, hotel or attraction ticket, as a package.
Book the smallest, least expensive car that you will need and hope for a free upgrade. At worst, you may get what you asked for.
Check prices on other classes and sized vehicles. They may be offering discounts for that size or class.
It's OK to use discount coupons, but read them carefully. Many upgrade coupons are "based on availability". Remember to mention any coupons or discounts when making your reservation.
Ask about any discount programs for which you may be eligible (AAA, AARP, military etc.).
Upon arrival at the counter, ask if they are offering any upgrade specials. There may be some good deals that you are not aware of.

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What special discount programs are available ?

Check for special deals based on membership in associations or clubs.
VIP clubs or Frequent Flier programs may offer discounts.
Many credit card companies have discount or upgrade programs with rental car "partners".
Discounts often apply when booking your car with certain airlines, hotels or attraction tickets as a package.
Government, military or corporate employees often qualify for some discount. Most rental car companies extend those discounts for the renter's leisure travel.
A few special airport discounts ask you to show your arrival airline ticket. Some require that you have arrived within 24 hours for the special rate.

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How do I know what the best company is for me ?

Check around and consider their customer service record.

Consider their policies. Are they favorable to you or do they penalize you somehow ?
Do they "partner" with a VIP or Frequent Flier program that offers the services you need ?
Do you belong to any groups that entitle you to discounts with a specific rental car company ?.
Check into what partnerships they have. Many rental car companies have agreements with hotel chains, airlines or credit card companies.
Do they credit your frequent flier program with points ?
Find out if they offer the type of car that you prefer, such as new, used, Ford, GM, luxury, 4 wheel drive or specialty vehicles.
Check the type of locations that they offer. Do they have them in the cities where you travel ? Do they have international locations ? Are on or off-airport ? Are they open 24-hours a day ?
What extra services do they offer ? Will they deliver a car to you if necessary ? Do they provide 24-hour emergency road service ?
Are they able to honor any special requests that you might have ?
Are their rates competitive and do they honor any coupons or discounts that you may want to use ?

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Which is better, the daily or weekly rate ?

If you'll need a car seven days or longer take the weekly rate. If you are going to use the car for five or six days, check the weekly rate. Often the sixth and seventh day work out to be free by using a weekly rental. Even if you don't need the extra day or two, if your plans change, you have it. If the rate for 4 or 5 days works out higher than a discounted weekly price, ask for it ! Most companies will concur. Check the individual rental company’s policy on this.

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