5 Tips To Get The Best Deal On Car Hire Rates

Contrary to popular belief, car rental rates are not set in stone. Discounts can be found by doing your research, or simply by asking for them. Car Rental companies are more than happy to rent out cars they are not using. Vehicles that are just sitting around are not making any money.

I have used the following tips to get good rates for Car Hire UK.

1. Do some research. Researching car hire prices can be done online, on the phone, or by reading newspapers or magazines. It is important to compare the rates from various car-hire companies. Most companies web sites will show you their rates for various locations. Also check the travel comparison web sites to compare companies against each other.

2. Book early. If you are planning your trip several months in advance, check car-rental prices available at that time. If you find what you consider fair, go ahead and reserve it. You can change it later, if you find a better rate. Many times, car-hire companies give big discounts to early renters.

3. Book late. As the time for your trip approaches, car rental discounts may be found as car-rental companies try to unload their excess inventory. Like I said, cars that are just sitting around aren't doing anyone any good.

4. This is a good tip. Get the smallest car available. Determine the number of passengers traveling with you, and the amount of their luggage, then get the smallest car that you will all comfortably fit in. Ideally, the car-rental company will be out of this car, and will upgrade you for free to the next higher class. You can also ask about complementary upgrades.

5. Fill the car with fuel before returning it. Car Hire companies always charge you way more than it would cost you to replace the fuel you have used. This will not work in some European countries though, as you run empty to empty. I remember this from using Car Hire France.

By following these tips, you can get a better rate on car hire just about anywhere in the world. Have a great trip!