5 Ways to get a Discount Car Rental

By Paula Lyons

All car rental companies have a top price point that they would love everyone to pay. But let's face it, with all the competition, you should never have to pay top price.

There are several ways to get a discount on your car rental.


1. Discount Car Rental Coupons

Discount coupons are one way to help get a cheap car rental rate.

You can find coupons online, in magazines or through coupon books. There are several types of car rental coupons available.

Decide which type of discount coupon works best for you and your rental.

Money off coupons can range from $5 to $50 off your total rental price.

You usually find free day rental car discount coupons for compact up to full size cars, for weekly or weekend rentals.

A great source of car rental coupons is the Entertainment Book.

2. Internet Car Rental Deals


Car rental specials are almost constantly advertised. For the car rental companies it's a way to grab your attention and get you to check out their website or call their toll-free number, looking for that special offer. If you can get it, a special is a great way for you to get a cheaper car rental. They allow car rental companies to get their vehicles booked in advance and allow you to save money! You can access car rental specials through each individual company’s website or through car rental booking sites. To get the best rate possible, check both.


3. Car Rental Discount Codes

One of the easiest ways to save money on your rental car is to use a car rental discount code. There are hundreds of membership programs and professional associations that offer car rental discount codes to their members for at least one car rental company. You can usually use a discount code in conjunction with a car rental coupon!



4. Business Discounts

Companies who are looking for business car rentals can apply for corporate accounts with car rental companies. These accounts provide discounted car rental rates and a variety of rental benefits.


If you are an employee of a large, national company, chances are they already have a corporate account with one or several car rental companies. You can check with whomever sets up travel arrangements or employee discounts for your company or you can check with a car rental reservation agent if calling a car rental company's toll-free number.


If you are self-employed or own your own business, and need rental cars on a regular basis, you should look into setting up a business account with one or more car rental companies. Most have special programs for small businesses that don't require any minimum car rentals per year.


5. Frequent Renter Offers

Frequent renter benefits or programs are offered to renters by car rental companies for a variety of reasons.

By rewarding frequent renters with special benefits, program offers and car rental rewards; they can build customer loyalty and make your rental experience easier and faster and can often provide you with specials, savings and awards.


The bottom line is that you do have options that will enable you to get a discount on your next and future car rentals; you just need to check them out. Never pay top price again!