Car Rental Tips & Tricks that Will Save You Money in 2026
If you’ve ever rented a car while traveling, you know how quickly it can turn into a headache. Between rising rates, confusing policies, insurance add-ons, and endless options, it’s hard to know what actually saves you money—and what ends up costing more in the long run.
Questions come up fast: Do you really need the insurance? Which rental company is best? Can you rent a car in another country? Will your license work, or do you need an international permit? And why does that “cheap” rental suddenly double at checkout?
The truth is, car rentals aren’t one-size-fits-all. What works depends on where you’re going, how long you’re traveling, and what you actually need. I rent cars often—both in the U.S. and internationally—and every trip requires a slightly different approach. I’ve learned the hard way that skipping the research can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
That’s why I’m sharing these car rental tips and tricks. They’re the exact strategies I use to save money, avoid common pitfalls, and make the rental process smoother. And yes—I rent cars so often that I’m even in the early stages of starting my own private car rental company here in Fort Lauderdale.
Why Rent a Car?
- Renting a car allows you to explore more.
- It is a safe way to get around – especially if you are traveling alone.
- Renting a car could be the least expensive option for airport transfer/
transport ation.
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended – at no extra cost to you, of course. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my disclosure here.
Major U.S.-Based Rental Car Companies
- Dollar / Thrifty
- National / Alamo / Enterprise
- Hertz
- Budget / Avis
- Sixty
What things should you look for when renting a car?
- If you’re outside the U.S., verify if an international driver’s permit (IDP) is required. Generally, countries that you visit that speak English don’t require an IDP. You will want to check with the rental car office to verify if an IDP is required. The IDP must be issued insurance to leave the U.S.
- Be sure that you have a credit card that will cover the cost of the rental and the deposit. Depending on the rental car company, the deposit can be anywhere from $50USD-$5,000USD – make sure you confirm what is.
- Book online & in advance to get the best deal however depending on where you travel you may need to call the rental car company directly.
- Verify what the policy is for crossing borders and/or state lines. There may be limitations however you want to know what those are prior to.
Other Car Rental Tips & Tricks to Keep In Mind
- Verify if there are toll roads that you will pass through during the time that you will have the rental car. If so, verify what options are available to either avoid the toll roads or to pay the less amount for them. Some rental companies will offer a toll device that will give you unlimited access to tolls. Compare your options should.
- Additional drivers. There are usually additional charges for other drivers. If you are traveling with a spouse, you may not be charged those additional charges. Avis, Budget, Enterprise & Fox don’t charge the usual fee per day fee for spouses or domestic partners.
- Parking. Do your research and verify what the parking options are. Does your hotel/Airbnb offer parking? If not, you may need to think outside the box. >>> See how creative you might have to get with parking options when renting a car.
- Be sure to inspect your rental car before leaving the lot. If there are ANY damages on or in the vehicle be sure to document them all on your rental agreement or inspection form.
Car Rental Tips & Tricks When Traveling with Kids
- Take your own car seat and/or booster seat. The car rental company usually offers the option to rent one but it can add up really fast (about $10-$15 a day each). You may also want to consider smaller-sized travel car seats (depending on how many you’re traveling with and the size of the vehicle you’re renting).
- Be sure that you have plenty of entertainment for the kids.
- Are you taking a road trip?
How can I save money on a rental car?
When I start my search, I usually head straight to CarRentals.com and Turo. They’re my go-to platforms and a great place to compare options before booking.
Cheap “Low price” rentals are great but you MUST read the rental policies/terms thoroughly to determine if it’s worth it for you. The cheap rental car companies offer really cheap rates but there is usually always an additional cost they manage to sneak in somehow.
For example, they may give you a really cheap rate for the car rental but then be required to purchase their insurance coverage. This is going to increase the cost of renting the car. Another example – you may be given a cheap daily rental rate however the required deposit may be high – $1,000 or more and/or the allotted miles are limited. To get a cheap rental car click here or here. Here are a few of the cheap car rental companies:
- Fox Rent-A-Car
- Advantage
- U-Save
- Europcar Rental
- EZ
- Economy Rent a Car
- Payless
- Easirent
- Midway
Should I get car rental insurance coverage?
Ok, so determining whether or not to get rental insurance coverage can be a little challenging. Car rental coverage can make or break your trip! Generally, I use my personal auto insurance coverage when traveling within the U.S. When I travel internationally, I usually go for insurance coverage through the rental car company or I buy travel insurance through a 3rd party. An added bonus to buying travel insurance is that depending on the plan you choose, it provides coverage for other travel-related disruptions – besides the rental car.
From my personal experience, having some kind of insurance coverage for a rental is always the best way to go – especially outside of the United States. Check with your personal auto insurance company and credit card company to verify if they offer coverage within the U.S. and/or while traveling abroad.
Depending on the country you’re traveling to, some banks or credit card companies may offer limited or no coverage. If you don’t have any coverage and/or have very limited coverage, I would definitely consider buying travel insurance. Get a quote to see what’s gonna be your best option.
Renting a car can really be fun.
Buying car rental insurance coverage through a 3rd party is also a great option if you are unable to use your personal auto insurance or if your credit card company doesn’t offer coverage. Get a free quote for rental insurance options
What should I do when it’s time to return the rental car?
- Verify what time you have to return the car and if there is a grace period (usually 30 min – an hour is given).
- If the rental car office is not open 24/7 then ask if there is after-hours drop off option.
- Verify what the rate will be should you have to keep the rental for an additional day(s).
What car rental tips and tricks will help you save money and headaches?
Do you need a cheap car rental?
Which is the best car rental company?
Can you rent a car in a foreign country?
Do you need an international driver’s permit (IDP)?
Should you buy the insurance coverage with the rental company or use your personal auto insurance coverage?
Final Thoughts
Renting a car doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. With the right approach, you can avoid unnecessary fees, choose the coverage that actually makes sense, and find a rental that fits both your budget and your trip.
A little research up front goes a long way—and it can save you money, time, and frustration once you arrive. These tips are the same ones I use every time I rent, whether it’s a quick domestic trip or traveling abroad.
Before you book your next rental, save this guide and come back to it. And if you found it helpful, share it with a friend who’s planning a trip or leave a comment below—I’d love to know which tip helped you most.
