If you're looking for a way to get around a travel destination or you would rather spare your own car the wear and tear of a certain trip, rental cars may be the transportation method of choice. The prices of these temporary vehicles dropped about 3 percent from 2011 to 2012, and the lower costs should continue heading into 2013, The New York Times reports.
The best way to save money when booking a rental car is reserve the vehicle as early as possible and then continuously recheck the rate to see if it has fallen. If you find prices have dropped, you can rebook for that lower rate or try to get a company to get down to a competitor's number. Using online comparison tools are also helpful in this regard.
"Rental car companies will typically set the price high and those prices will almost always drop," Jonathan Weinberg, co-founder of AutoSlash.com, told the news source. "The best way to game the system is to book as early as possible and recheck the rate."
Another factor to consider is the overall customer service and experience that goes along with renting a car. While finding lower prices may be important, it's also essential that drivers find a franchise that will provide the necessary support and auto repair should anything go wrong.