Rental companies direct
Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo, Sixt
- Loyalty programs can skip the counter
- Easier to modify the reservation
- Pay-later rates are usually cancelable
- You compare one brand at a time
Travel · Car rentals
Renting a car: where to book, pros and cons
Rental prices depend on location, dates and how far ahead you book. Airport counters are convenient but often add airport fees; insurance and fuel options at the counter can add more than the daily rate.
Your options compared
Comparison and agency sites
Kayak, Expedia, Priceline, Costco Travel (members)
- Compare companies and locations at once
- Some show off-airport options and package discounts
- Prepaid deals can be hard to change
- Insurance sold by the agency is different from the rental company's coverage
Peer-to-peer rentals
Turo
- Specific makes and models, sometimes lower prices
- Delivery options in some cities
- Protection plans and rules differ from traditional rentals
- Pickup and return depend on the individual host
Before you pay, check:
- Compare the total with taxes and airport fees
- Check what your own auto insurance and credit card already cover before buying coverage at the counter
- Decide on fuel: return it full versus prepaying
- Check mileage limits, young-driver fees and extra-driver fees
- Photograph the car before you drive away
Compare the other parts of your trip: Stays · Flights · Excursions & tours · Travel news
The Company Chronicle does not earn a commission from the companies named on this page. Prices, fees and policies change often; always confirm the final total and the rules on the booking page before you pay.
