Finances
When is the best time to rent a car?
If you need a car to travel but it’s not willing to buy one, you can always choose to rent one. We'll tell you when is the best time to do this and save!
Advertisement
Should you book your car rental in advance or not? Read on to find out!
If you need a car anytime soon and plan on renting one, you should know the best time to rent a car.
Pros and cons of refinancing a car: should you do
Is your car loan costing you more than it should? You can consider refinancing it. We’ll tell you the pros and cons of refinancing a car.
Renting a car can be advantageous, but you must pick the right car, renter, and time. See how you can save money when renting a car.
Is there a right time to rent a car?
Planning a trip requires a lot of organization. And yes, there is a better time to rent a car, but it will depend on a few factors.
When traveling, the sooner you book your flight, hotels, and car rentals, the better. Many companies will reward you with discounts.
That happens because it can be advantageous for these companies to have money in advance. It guarantees that they will cover their costs.
But this is not always a rule, and if you’re not going to a crowded destination or a holiday trip, you can get good prices even on the same day you need a car.
And let’s say, sometimes the peace of mind of having everything figured out can benefit you more than a little discount.
You will be redirected to another website
By submitting this form, I agree that I am 18+ years old and I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. I also provide my signature giving express consent to receive marketing communications via automated emails, SMS or MMS text messages and other forms of communication regarding financial products such as credit card and loans. Message frequency varies and represents our good faith effort to reach you regarding your inquiry. Message and data rates may apply. Text HELP for help or text STOP to cancel. I understand that my consent to receive communications is not a condition of purchase and I may revoke my consent at any time.
The type of car you rent will largely impact the cost
The bigger and fancier the car, the more expensive it will be to rent one. Also, rental companies tend to have fewer of these types of cars.
So, if you want a special type of car, you can book them in advance to ensure you’ll have them when.
On the other hand, if you’re just fine with a simple sedan for max five people, the isn’t a lot of difference if you book ahead or by demand.
As these types of cars are more common, you can easily rent on on the counter for a good price.
After all, renting them cheaply is better than letting them in the parking lot.
Keep an eye out for peak dates
Have you noticed that prices increase when getting close to the holidays and school breaks? That happens when demand goes up and supplies go down.
If everyone wants to rent a car, the companies may increase the prices. Some say the best time to rent a car is soon.
Unfortunately, whoever manages to save more money during the year, get’s the best cars and leaves the bad ones for the others.
And here is the tricky part: the is no exact way to tell if booking sooner will get you the best prices or if you should wait for a sale closer to your travel.
Rental companies can keep the prices up because they know there will be a peak in demand at specific dates.
650 credit score: is it a good score to achieve?
When it comes to credit scores, the higher, the better. But is 650 a good credit score? Keep reading to find out!
How can you decide if it’s better to book sooner or later?
The best time to rent a car depends on your priorities and risk tolerance. Yes, like when we’re investing.
You can book sooner to take this task off of your head and just calmly wait for the time of your travel with no worries about whether it was the best deal or not.
But for this to work, you can not feel guilty if you find a las-minute-sale for that car of your dreams.
On the other hand, you might wait for this sale, and it just won’t happen. And if this happens, it’s all right, and you should not lose your peace of mind.
While some researchers say you can save 15% by booking later, others claim you should book it four to six months ahead. It is contradictory.
Everybody wants to rent a car at the airport – so avoid doing it
When you arrive your destiny at the airport, you might need a car to move around the city. And so does everybody else. Not everybody, but a lot of people.
This can increase the prices of car rentals at the airports. The more people look for cars to rent, the lower the supply versus demand ratio.
So, the best time to rent a car when you arrive at the airport is when you leave the airport and get to the city rental car.
If you rent a car for several days, you can save money just by doing this. Take a cab or Uber to the nearest place to rent a car outside the airport.
Moreover, you can book it online and arrive calmly at the airport, knowing you don’t have to fight over the good cars.
In conclusion: The best time to rent a car is… up to you!
While there seems to be no consensus on the best time to rent a car, you should do it when possible.
Know that the size of the city you’re going to and the airport will impact the supply and demand and, consequently, the prices.
Sometimes it is better to plan and book your trip ahead than to end up with the worst car or even no car because you have waited too long.
And if you have to rent a car at the last minute, don’t worry either. There is a chance you’ll get even better prices than booking ahead. Who knows?
You have already made a good deal if you find a rented car that fits your budget and suit your needs.
Up next
Discover how to make the most of your travel with your credit card. Read our Mastercard Concierge Guide and find out!
Mastercard Concierge guide
Would you like to get assistance in your travel planning and enjoy exclusive perks? Then keep reading and learn more about Mastercard Concierge!
About the author / Julia Bermudez
Trending Topics
Brink’s Money Prepaid Mastercard® review: Earn rewards
Check our Brink's Money Prepaid Mastercard® review and learn how to earn more with this prepaid card - 500 bonus when signing up!
Keep ReadingCNC Machine Operator Training Program by Amatrol: enroll today
If you want to enroll in the CNC Machine Operator Training Program by Amatrol, you'll want to check out this article!
Keep ReadingCapital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards: 0% Intro APR!
Learn how to apply for the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards and enjoy 15 months of low APR with a $200 welcome bonus on top!
Keep ReadingYou may also like
Find financial freedom: Upstart Loan review!
Do you need a loan to upgrade your finances with up to $50,000? If so, you can read on for our Upstart Loan review!
Keep ReadingCiti Custom Cash℠ Card Review: Earn Up to 5% Cash Back
Check out our Citi Custom Cash℠ Card full review and learn how you can start earning cash back! Enjoy 0% intro APR for 15 months!
Keep ReadingMerrick Bank Double Your Line® Secured Credit Card: how to apply
Learn now how to apply for Merrick Bank Double Your Line® Secured Credit Card and rebuild your credit history!
Keep Reading