If you are suddenly without a vehicle because yours is having mechanical issues, then you might be looking for a rental. Renting a truck is a great option because it can still be used for work if you often haul items, as well as having enough space inside for you and a passenger. Here are some tips for renting a truck at the last minute.
Don't Worry About the Insurance
First of all, don't worry about the car insurance the car rental company is going to try to sell you. In most cases, you don't need it. You already have insurance for your regular car or truck, so you can call your insurance company and make sure you will be covered in the rental vehicle. If not, check with your credit card company. Many credit cards actually come with insurance coverage for rental vehicles, even if they don't make it obvious upfront. Skipping the car rental's insurance will help to save you some money for the last-minute rental.
Try to Use a Regular Credit Card
When you rent a vehicle last minute, especially over a busy weekend like a holiday weekend, the prices might be higher than normal. A good way to save a little money is by using a regular credit card. There are a lot of rental car companies that are willing to let you use your bank's debit card, but they will require a hold on the card while renting the truck. You might be on a tight budget and not able to do without the money they hold in your account until you're done using the truck, so it is really beneficial to use a regular credit card instead.
Paying Upfront Can Sometimes Save Money
Also check to see if the car rental company offers a lower price if you pay beforehand. For example, if you reserve the truck online, they might let you pay the price of the rental when making reservations, which can save you money in the long run. You do have the option of paying when you return the vehicle, but the prices might be higher for the last-minute rental.
Avoid Airports and Other Busy Areas
If you are trying to rent a truck at an airport or downtown area, expect to have limited vehicle choices and to pay more for the rental. If you live in a downtown area, it is worth hailing a cab to a smaller town on the outskirts of the city and finding a rental company there. You will probably have more vehicles to choose from and save money at the same time.
Share21 November 2016
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