JourneyLearning: - Your journey guide

Need to rent some wheels? Whether you’re going on a weeklong road trip across America or chauffeuring the gang to the beach for the weekend, our eight tips for renting a car in the US will help you save money, stay safe, and hit the road with less stress.



Booking the Rental Car You Want



Holidays and other high-traffic travel times mean that rental cars go fast — so look to book as soon as you know your plans. Start by deciding what type of car and extras you want or need, so that you can compare prices accurately. Are you looking for a convertible, SUV, minivan, or standard sedan? Do you need a cell phone, ski rack, or child safety seat? Likewise, cut the fat: Decide what amenities you don’t need. For example, if you’re not in a rush, you can save big bucks by picking up your rental car at an off-terminal location.



Shopping Around



Rental car rates vary wildly, even for similar vehicles in the same city. Always compare prices, and remember that base rates are just the beginning of what will likely be a much higher final bill. Additional charges may include insurance; second-driver fees; surcharges based on season, location, and driver’s age (expect to pay more if you’re under 25 years old); mileage fees; drop-off charges; airport access fees; and refueling charges. Ask about all additional fees, taxes, and surcharges before you book.



Digging for Deals



There are definitely deals to be found, especially online. Visit Trip.com and find fantastic rates at rental car companies throughout the US. Other great ways to save: Find out if any organizations you belong to offer rental car discounts or upgrades, or consider “paying” for your car with frequent flyer miles or hotel loyalty points (both are often partnered with rental car companies). Again, be sure that the quoted price includes ALL applicable fees, taxes, and surcharges.



Insuring Your Rental Car



Before you book online or arrive at the rental car counter, know the scope of rental car coverage offered by your own auto, medical, travel, homeowner’s, and credit card insurance, so that you can avoid paying twice for the same protection. The four most common types of insurance cover: vandalism, theft, or damage to your car, (collision damage waiver/loss damage waiver, aka CDW/LDW); liability if you injure someone else or damage another’s property (supplemental liability); injury to you or a passenger (personal accident); and theft or vandalism to property inside your car (personal effects coverage, aka PEC).



Avoiding Fine Print Penalties



Ask lots of questions. For example, a company may waive the second-driver fee for your spouse if you provide “proof” of marriage, but “proof” of marriage varies. You may be required to share the same last name, have the same address on your driver’s license, and/or show your marriage license. Also, double-check drop-off policies: Some companies charge extra for early returns! Confirm the standard one-hour grace period if you’re running late, and make sure that it applies to weekend and/or weekly rates and extras such as ski racks and child safety seats. Finally, ask how you’ll be charged if you’re more than one hour late. (No use in rushing if you’ll be charged for another full day anyway.)



Inspecting Your Car for Safety & Scratches



Before you leave the lot, make sure that the spare tire is ready for action; that there’s a jack in the trunk and an owner’s manual in the glove compartment; and that there is a phone number you can call for roadside assistance. Test the windshield wipers, seat belts, and lights, and check the gas level. Walk around the car and make sure any damage is noted on your contract. If it’s not, it’ll be hard to prove that you didn’t do it if they decide to charge you for it when you drop off the car.

Fill ‘Er Up Yourself

Always opt to return a rental car with a full tank of gas. Sure, it’s a hassle and eats up time when you may be rushing to catch your flight, but it’s a surefire way to save money. Leaving it to the rental car company means that you’ll be charged a premium (read: ridiculously inflated) price per gallon, plus this charge is subject to sales tax and airport concession fees.



Be Prepared for Anything



Find out what happens to your rental car reservation if your plane is delayed and you miss your pick-up time. Know what time a drop-off location closes and what to do if you don’t make it in time. Also, don’t be shocked if a company overbooks (to compensate for no-shows) and runs out of cars in your category. Pleasantly insist on an equal or better car, or a comparable reservation elsewhere. Finally, bad drivers beware: If your record is rife with recent run-ins and you reserve in a state that screens driving records, you may be refused a car. Bottom line: Ask about a company’s policy before you book your car.

Hotel and lodging deals are easy to find if you know where to look. In fact, season-specific room rates, last-minute deals, and special discounts are often right at your fingertips and ready for the taking! Before you book, read our tips on how to save the most money — and get the best value — at hotels around the world.



Prioritizing Your Pennies



There are vacations for which where you sleep is a high priority (your honeymoon, say) and trips when a hotel room is just a place to catch some Zzzz’s between hitting the slopes, sand, shops, or sights. Before you start comparing prices, know your priorities to narrow the playing field. A fancy resort’s numerous amenities and services offer zero value if you’re not going to take advantage of them. Start with your minimum wishlist for this particular getaway — workout equipment, a Jacuzzi tub in your room, or just a bed to rest your head — and spend accordingly.



Surfing for Savings



Visit a one-stop travel-booking website such as Trip.com to compare prices, view lodging photos and details, check out condo rentals deals, and find last-minute specials. Some sites offer great search parameters: Trip.com, for example, allow you to search by proximity to an airport or landmark and specify a budget and desired amenities.



Searching for Package Deals



If you don’t have your heart set on a specific hotel, resort, or condo, consider searching flight, lodging, & car; flight & lodging; or lodging & car packages, which may be cheaper than booking your travel components separately. Speaking of packages, don’t sign up for a “golf package,” “romance package,” or other type of hotel package before finding out what each perk would cost if booked a la carte. You’ll be less “tied down” — and may save money by keeping your options open.



Timing Your Visit Just Right



Traveling during a destination’s low season or “shoulder” season (the period right before or after high season) can save you up to 50%. Aside from a destination’s high season (usually the most expensive time of year), local festivals, events, conventions, and holidays may drive rates up here and there throughout the year. Lodging rates in cities such as Las Vegas, for example, are dramatically affected by conventions, and rates change by the minute! To find out about a destination’s low and shoulder seasons, call a Travel Professional at 1.800.TRIP.COM (1.800.874.7266).

If off-season travel isn’t an option, juggle where you stay and when: Big-city hotels may offer lower rates on weekends, when business travel drops off, while cozy bed-and-breakfast inns may offer great mid-week specials, when weekend travelers are working.



Becoming a Member



Flex your card-carrying muscle. Check the membership privileges for all of your credit cards and any other organizations you belong to, including AAA, AARP, and unions. Join hotel loyalty (or “frequent-stay”) programs to snag automatic price breaks or rack up points for free stays and/or upgrades. Ask your employer or human resource department about any corporate discounts that you may be able to use. In addition, ask about senior rates or discounts, — which may net you up to 15% off, — or deals for children, — such as “kids stay (or eat) free” programs. Note: To cash in on these savings, you may need to speak with someone over the phone in addition to, or instead of, booking online. For more information, call a Travel Professional at 1.800.TRIP.COM (1.800.874.7266).



Asking About “Hidden” Charges



When comparing prices, be sure to ask what extra charges apply — they can add a bundle to your bill! Local hotel taxes (up to 15%) are unavoidable, but vary by city and sometimes by the type or size of the establishment. Service charges are common, but inquire what’s covered (i.e., gratuities may be included, and will help you avoid tipping twice). However, too many additional automatic charges (e.g., parking fees, high surcharges on phone calls, etc.) may drive you elsewhere.

Searching for a Ticket Online


Often the best airfares, including special deals and online-only promotions, can be found at travel websites such as Trip.com. Sites like Trip.com offer great vacation packages and last-minute trips, which may save you money over booking your flights, lodging, and rental cars separately.

Timing Your Travel Dates and Booking Times


Most people know that the best fares are snagged by booking 14 to 21 days before flying, and include a Saturday-night stay. But did you know that the specific day and time you depart and return can also yield savings? Lower-priced seats are often available on midweek flights (Tuesday through Thursday), and at non-peak times such as early morning, midday, and late night. (Hint: To save money, ask yourself when a businessperson would travel — and do the opposite.)

Taking Advantage of Time-sensitive Deals


The number of discounted tickets per flight is limited, and the seats go fast for popular routes — so you need to be prepared to pounce. A few weeks before you book, track how much it usually costs to fly from point A to point B, so you’ll recognize a good fare when you see it. When the price drops, make sure the sale is worth the savings (i.e., a flight departing from an alternative airport is no “deal” if the flight times are limited or the airport is far away from your destination) and then book pronto. If you fear you’ve booked too fast, keep an eye on prices for that route: nonrefundable tickets can usually be reissued at a lower price. There will be a per-ticket reissue charge but, depending on the new price, it may still be worth it.

Booking High vs. Low Season


Just as hotel prices peak or plunge according to the season, airline prices also have high and low seasons. In general, excluding holidays, the number of bargain-priced seats soars from May through September to the Caribbean; mid-November through March to Europe; December through March to Asia; and June through August to Australia. Domestically, the best fares fall between October and March. Hint: For the best balance of low prices and good weather, travel during the weeks right before or after a destination’s high season.

Taking Advantage of Age-related Discounts


Being under age two or over age 62 (minimum ages may vary) has its advantages. On most major airlines, seniors enjoy a 10% discount, and infants with their own safety seats save up to 50% on published fares. Older travelers can also buy coupon books from many major airlines, which can yield hefty savings on long-haul flights. Each fixed-price coupon can be redeemed for a one-way ticket anywhere in the lower 48 states. The further you fly, the more you save!

Note: Coupon terms and conditions vary depending on the airline, so be sure to read an airline’s policies before purchasing. Also, keep in mind that coupons may be overpriced for shorter flights; check regular published fares before purchasing.

Booking Direct Flights vs. Connecting Flights


Opting for one or two connections instead of flying direct can lower your airfare — but it can be a risky idea, especially during winter, when snow or storm delays are more common. Flying direct means that there’s no connection to miss, and less chance that your luggage will be misplaced. That said, connecting flights often save you lots of cash. Hint: If you opt for connections, depart as early in the day as possible, as the possibility and/or cumulative effect of backed-up flights increases as the day wears on. Leaving earlier also provides you with more options if your original flight gets delayed or cancelled.


Saving Money With Last-minute Travel


Last-minute bargain fares are popular with airlines, which are hungry to sell empty seats on upcoming flights (especially weekend flights, which usually depart on Saturday and return the following Monday or Tuesday). For the best deals, check out our Last Minute Trips, which offers deeply discounted rates on last-minute vacation packages for this weekend or next.

Saving Money With Frequent Flyer and Loyalty Programs

To earn “free” future flights or upgrades, use a credit card that rewards airline miles for every dollar spent. Likewise, make every vacation an investment in your next trip: Whenever you purchase an airline ticket, book a hotel room, or rent a car, join the company’s loyalty program. Why? Many of these vacation essentials are partnered, meaning that points earned in one program can be redeemed for rewards in any of the partner programs. Furthermore, joining the frequent flyer program for one airline opens the door to all of its global partner airlines, which exponentially expands your range of travel possibilities.

Preparing to Pack



One week before your departure, use your itinerary to help you start a packing list. This allows plenty of time to plan outfits, shop for anything you need, do laundry, drop off dry cleaning, etc. (A list is also handy if your luggage disappears: It serves as an inventory for reimbursement and/or shopping purposes.) Two more things that’ll help you pack: a hotel brochure and a weather forecast. Does your room include a hair dryer and an alarm clock? If so, leave those things at home. In addition, check the seven-day weather forecast for your destination before you leave: tossing in a waterproof jacket and umbrella at the last minute may save you days of soggy grief.



Packing the Essentials



When push comes to shove, almost everything you lose or forget can be replaced. Clothes, shoes, toiletries, film — you might not be able to find exactly what you want, and you’ll probably pay too much, but substitutes exist. What’s not easy to replace are the things that should be first in your pile of things to bring: prescription medications (transport in the original pharmacy bottles); eyeglasses, contacts, and asthma inhalers (it’s a good idea to bring backups); unusual camera or video batteries; contraception; and tampons, if needed.



Coordinating Your Wardrobe



The golden rule of streamlined packing: coordinate your outfits for multi-tasking. This means two things: First, don’t take a single piece of clothing that doesn’t work with at least two other pieces (e.g., a pair of pants that works with two or more tops). Second, pack versatile (or reversible) items and a few key accessories. For example, neither a pair of earrings nor a scarf occupies much suitcase real estate, for example, but the addition of both can instantly dress up that pair of jeans and white T-shirt.



Packing Travel-ready Fabrics



This is important for several reasons. First, certain fabrics resist wrinkling, which is a godsend if your hotel room doesn’t include an iron. (Microfibers such as Lycra, nylon, and Tencel are your best bets; see TravelSmith and Magellan’s catalogs for a wealth of choices.) Second, color: Dark clothes hide stains, but light-colored clothes are cooler. Third, patterns: Speaking of stains, patterns hide them better than solids. Fourth, weave: A tighter weave blocks sun more effectively. Fifth, weight: Opt for thinner fabrics and think layers when traveling. As you travel, it’s easier to peel off and stash a light layer or two than lug around a big heavy coat or sweater. That said, if the climate calls for a thick sweater and/or coat, wear it on the plane — and stash it overhead — instead of wasting valuable suitcase space.



Packing Like a Pro



Arrange items in your suitcase like you would fill a grocery bag: heavier items on the bottom, lighter items toward the top. Stuff shoes and purses with socks and underwear to help them keep their shape, secure liquids in sealed plastic bags, and reduce wrinkles in your clothes by rolling instead of folding them. Remember: Don’t cram your suitcase with unnecessary items. At best, you may exceed the weight limit (usually 70 pounds) and have to pay a surcharge when checking in. At worst, your zipper may bust en route. Finally, if you’re planning on buying souvenirs and other items on the trip, pack an extra bag that you can use on the flight home. Allow room on the way home by packing an empty bag that you can stuff with souvenirs.



Packing Your Carry-on Bag



Because you keep a carry-on bag with you at all times, it’s the safest place to transport your jewelry, camera(s), gifts, and other expensive, sentimental, perishable, or fragile items. It’s also a great place to pack a day’s worth of supplies, and can be a lifesaver if your luggage gets lost or delayed. At minimum, your carry-on should include a change of underwear and socks, plus your toothbrush and toothpaste. Pre-moistened face/hand wipes and a small amount of contact lens solution, if needed, are also nice to have. What can’t you pack in your carry-on? New FAA regulations prohibit sharp objects such as knives, scissors, metal nail files, and corkscrews; sports equipment such as baseball bats, golf clubs, ski poles, and hockey sticks; and fire starters such as matches, hair spray, and mace.