Today, the average cost of gasoline in the U.S. is $4 per gallon. However if you return a rental vehicle without topping off the gasoline tank, did you know that you’ll pay more than double for each gallon the rental service puts in to fill the tank? This is one of the hidden rental vehicle fees that can cost you a bundle is you aren’t careful. Equip yourself with knowledge now so that your rental vehicle bill will not sting your wallet later.
Pay $9.29 a gallon for renting a vehicle gasoline
Dollar and Thrifty is charging $8.99 a gallon to top of the gas tank while Hertz is charging $9.29 a gallon on average according to a USA Today survey of 13 large U.S. airports with rental auto businesses. If a consumer pays the rental business ahead of time, the price goes down a lot, however this is one way customers’ get money stolen by rental companies all the time.
Thinking about the other fees to stay away from
1. Additional driver fees – Most rental businesses charge an additional $10 per driver.
2. Insurance – You have no need to purchase additional insurance if you already are paying for it each month. This is especially true if you have comprehensive on your insurance. See if your losses can be insured by the credit card company too.
3. Early/late return fees – It can cost $10 or more every single day you are late, so return the automobile on time. Early returns generally require a $15 fee too.
4. Child auto seats – When renting, it helps to have your own auto seat. Make sure you bring it with you for those who have children. About $7 a day is charged for a car seat. This is the charge for each one you rent.
5. Toll bypass – You can pay for an electronic toll road pass by rental companies. You may already have one or just don’t want one. If this is the case, just say no.
6. Mileage – Be careful of the miles you put on. If you know you’re going to be driving long distances, opt for an unlimited mileage rental or be prepared to pay an exorbitant amount per mile over the limit.
7. Cleaning – Don’t smoke in the automobile and clean up your mess. It can cost a lot to have the auto cleaned.
More tips for finding a cheaper rental vehicle
To find the least costly rental cars, start by looking travel web sites like Travelocity.com, Expedia.com, Priceline.com and Hotwire.com for deals on rental vehicles. Plan ahead and you may even be able to find a good rate that comes as part of a package deal with airline tickets and hotel. You may be able to save even more with entertainment coupon books and sites like RetailMeNot.com. Don’t rent longer than necessary. If you simply get the economy compact, it will get you there safely. This only works if you don’t have additional stuff to take with you.
Citations
Bankrate.com
bankrate.com/financing/cars/rental-car-gas-costs-9-a-gallon/
MSNBC
today.msnbc.msn.com/id/23471992/ns/today-money/t/secrets-renting-car-without-overspending/
Dollar Rent-A-Car was caught red-handed
youtube.com/watch?v=ZY4A-EJAbZs
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