Car rentals can be expensive, but I’ve discovered an easy way to help cut your costs. Join the company’s frequent renter club. They all have a free membership that will almost certainly save you time and money.
So here’s the deal, and it couldn’t be easier. If you need a car for 3-4 days, reserve the car for a week and just return it early. The weekly rate is always cheaper per day than the daily rate. Dollar’s fee is $15 for early return, but the fee is waived if you’re an Express member. They prorate the weekly rate, so you end-up with a much lower rate. I frequently make 4-day trips, so I book the car for 5 and save 40-50%.
You’ll save time, too. Some companies have a special line at the counter, where they will have your rental agreement already printed. Others have their members go straight to the car. In either case, you’ll bypass the line of tourists who didn’t take the extra couple minutes to prepare.