Renting a car can be a convenient way to explore new destinations, but without the right strategy, it can also become unnecessarily expensive. Budget Car Rental, known for its affordable and wide-ranging options, offers plenty of opportunities to save even more if you know the right tips and tricks. In this guide, we’ll cover life hacks that will help you make the most of your Budget Car Rental experience—while keeping your costs down.
One of the simplest ways to save money on a rental car is by booking early. Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand, and waiting until the last minute can lead to higher rates. Try to book your rental at least two weeks in advance to lock in the best rates. If your plans change, Budget Car Rental offers flexible cancellation options, giving you the freedom to modify your reservation if needed.
If you’re a frequent traveler, joining Budget’s Fastbreak Program is a must. This loyalty program offers members exclusive discounts, faster service at pickup and drop-off, and access to special offers. The best part? Signing up is free, and the time saved at the rental counter can make all the difference, especially during busy travel seasons.
If you’re renting a car for multiple days, look for weekend specials or weekly rates on the Budget website. Often, renting for an entire week can be cheaper than renting for just four or five days due to special weekly promotions. Similarly, weekend rentals sometimes offer significantly reduced rates, so it’s worth comparing different rental lengths to find the best deal.
Before booking, always search for discount codes and coupons. Budget regularly offers promo codes and discounts to various groups such as AAA members, AARP members, military personnel, and corporate employees. Even if you’re not part of one of these groups, you can often find promotional codes by simply doing a quick web search. Applying these codes can save you anywhere from 10% to 30% off your rental.
While picking up your rental car directly from the airport can be convenient, it often comes with additional fees. Many airports charge surcharges for on-site rentals. Instead, consider taking a shuttle or public transportation to an off-airport Budget location where you can save significantly on daily rates and avoid those extra fees.
Before you drive off, make sure to inspect your rental car for any pre-existing damage and report it to the rental agent. This simple step can save you from being charged for damages you didn’t cause. Take pictures or videos of the car from all angles, especially any visible dents, scratches, or issues with the tires.
Budget, like most rental companies, offers a prepaid fuel option, but this is usually more expensive than filling up the tank yourself at a nearby gas station. Always opt to return the car with a full tank, and make sure to refill it within a few miles of the drop-off location to avoid any refueling fees.
When renting a car, you’ll often be asked to add optional extras like GPS devices, child seats, or additional insurance. While some of these may be necessary depending on your situation, many are not. For example, most smartphones now have GPS capabilities, so you can save by skipping the rental company's GPS option. Similarly, your personal car insurance or credit card may already cover rental insurance, so review your policy beforehand to avoid paying for unnecessary coverage.
If you’re moving to a new city or state, consider using Budget’s one-way rental service. This allows you to rent a car at one location and drop it off at another, potentially saving you the cost of a moving truck or flight. Just make sure to check for any additional fees associated with one-way rentals.
Rental car prices can fluctuate even after you book. Luckily, Budget allows you to cancel your reservation without penalty (within the appropriate window). Keep an eye on prices leading up to your trip, and if you notice a price drop, cancel and rebook at the lower rate.
With these life hacks, you can maximize your savings and ensure you get the most out of your Budget Car Rental experience. Whether it’s booking in advance, using loyalty programs, or taking advantage of special discounts, a little preparation can go a long way in reducing costs.
