Booking a Rental Car on Hotwire
I'm getting ready to book a rental car on Hotwire. The price seems good, but I am a little reluctant since the reservation is not refundable.
Also, they state that the rental car company will place a hold on my credit card for a deposit in addition to the up front payment I will be making. Usually, the rental company holds the amount you will be required to pay when you return the car...so how much is the extra deposit usually? My total quote from Hotwire is $300.
Thanks!
With Hotwire, keep in mind that the reservation, in addition to being non-refundable, is not modifiable either. (ie, if your flights were changed to a different time or day, etc)
Most car rental companies require a minimum hold of $250 or the amount of the rental, whichever is higher. In your case that would mean they would have to hold the additional $300 at the time of pick up.. (over and above what you've already paid) those funds would be frozen on your credit card until the minivan is returned.
If you're nervous about prepaying your rental car upfront, try comparing rates through a booking site like Travelocity. Once you find the cheapest company, try going to their website directly and see if they have any online deals that are cheaper. You can also try checking rates using a car rental discount code if you have one. There are hundreds of membership programs and professional associations that offer car rental discount codes to their members.
Hope this helps and good luck!
Category Article car rental deposits
