Taking a Memorial Day Weekend Trip? Tips for Holiday Car Rentals

Taking a Memorial Day Weekend Trip? Tips for Holiday Car RentalsThe holiday weekend is almost upon us, and it’s likely that many of you are planning trips with your family or friends. If you are looking to rent a car either at your destination or to get to your destination, do your research and know what to expect beforehand. There are a few tips that could help you out in regards to car rentals, particularly during a national holiday.

First and foremost be sure to check your Connecticut auto insurance policy before renting a car, for peace of mind out there on the road. Not all auto insurance policies come with rental car coverage, but we can design a policy for you that leaves you fully covered on your travels.

Rates

You can prepay for a rental car and usually get a better rate. Be sure to review the fine print, which may include something like this:

“Any change to the reservation may impact the rental charges. The rental rates may be higher if you make any change to your rental, including a change to extend the rental, the drop-off location or return the vehicle prior to the scheduled return date. Additional fees or surcharges may be applied at time of rental.”

Rental car companies penalize you for changes. Before you make the reservation, find out what, if any penalties, your rental company might assess if you change your reservation.

Fees

Be aware of fees that drive up the price. People are sometimes surprised to encounter certain extra fees when renting a car. These types of charges may include customer facility charges and taxes.

Location

Location will matter tremendously when renting a car. For example, you can bypass some extra charges by renting off-airport grounds. Consider if an Uber or Lyft ride is worth it from wherever you arrive to pick up the car.  Some agencies like Hertz also offer free delivery in some cases. Call and ask.

If your destination is off the beaten path, try getting into a larger market, then renting a car and driving to your destination. You’ll save on airfare in all probability.

Travel Agents

Speak to a travel agent to assist you in the process of finding a rental car. They have relationships with the rental companies and normally can get discounted rates.

Sales

Keep on the lookout for flash sales through newsletters and social media. However, be aware of ridiculously low prices. For example, $3-a-day rental prices aren’t realistic for rental companies to make money, so they make profit by pushing add-ons. They’ll make it up at the rental counter with various forms extras that they say you will need. Leisure destinations are more likely to use low-ball tactics because leisure travelers are more price-sensitive.

Have Fun!

It is the time to splurge a little and make sure you enjoy your rental car and vacation. Many companies offer exotic brands. Hertz offers Corvette Stingrays and Shelby GT Mustangs; Avis has Maseratis, and Bentleys can be rented through Enterprise. Some companies specialize in exotic cars, and you also can use certain private-car-rental services. Why not try out something new for your weekend? After all, you’ll return it at the end of the trip.

About Byrnes Agency

At Byrnes Agency, we offer auto insurance solutions that can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you have an old classic car or a brand-new model, we have the right coverage for you. To learn more about our products, contact us today at one of our two locations.

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Dayville Office

Phone: (860) 774-8549

394 Lake Rd

Dayville, CT 06241

United States

info@byrnesagency.com

Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

Norwich Office

Phone: (860) 886-5498

6 Consumers Avenue

Norwich, CT 06360

United States

info@byrnesagency.com

Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

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