How to Get the Best Car Rental Deals During Holiday Travel Rush

1. Why Holiday Travel Rush Affects Car Rental Prices

Holiday seasons like Christmas, New Year, and Thanksgiving are some of the busiest travel times of the year, and car rental prices often skyrocket as demand exceeds supply. Understanding why prices increase can help you make more informed decisions and plan ahead to avoid paying inflated rates.

Rental car companies often have limited fleets available during the holiday rush, and many cars are booked well in advance. Additionally, many people opt for rental cars during holiday travels, especially when flying into airports. This high demand leads to higher prices and fewer vehicles available. However, with the right knowledge and strategies, you can still find great deals.

2. How to Find the Best Car Rental Deals During the Holidays

• Book Early: Why Timing Matters
• Compare Prices: Use Multiple Platforms
• Be Flexible: Consider Alternative Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
• Use Discounts and Loyalty Programs

2.1 Book Early: Why Timing Matters

One of the best ways to secure a good deal on car rentals during the holiday season is by booking early. The earlier you book, the more options you have at a lower price. Ideally, you should start looking for car rental options at least 3-4 weeks before your trip, as prices tend to increase as availability decreases closer to the holiday rush.

Booking in advance also allows you to choose from a wider range of cars and ensures you get a better price, especially if you’re renting from an airport. If you wait until the last minute, you may find limited availability, fewer options, and much higher rates.

2.2 Compare Prices: Use Multiple Platforms

Don’t settle for the first price you see! Make sure to compare rental prices across multiple booking platforms, such as the rental company’s official website, online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia or Kayak, and even car-sharing services. Sometimes, rental companies offer different prices or promotions through these platforms.

Additionally, check if there are any special offers, like free upgrades, no extra charges for additional drivers, or discounted rates for specific memberships like AAA or AARP. Using comparison websites helps you find the best deal and ensures you’re not paying more than necessary.

2.3 Be Flexible: Consider Alternative Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

If you’re flying into a busy airport, consider picking up your rental car from a location outside the airport. While airport locations are convenient, they typically come with higher prices due to airport fees. Renting from a nearby location that isn’t at the airport may save you a significant amount of money, even when factoring in a short taxi or shuttle ride to the rental office.

In addition, being flexible with your pick-up and drop-off times can also help. If you’re able to adjust your travel schedule by a few hours or a day, you might find lower rates and better availability.

2.4 Use Discounts and Loyalty Programs

If you have any membership cards, such as those from AAA, AARP, or other travel organizations, make sure to use them when booking your rental car. Many companies offer discounts to members of these groups, which can save you up to 20% on your rental.

Many rental car companies also have loyalty programs that offer rewards for frequent renters. Signing up for these programs can provide you with benefits such as discounted rates, upgrades, and free rental days. Even if you're only renting a car for the holidays, the loyalty points may add up over time for future trips.

3. Real-Life Example: How a Smart Traveler Saved on Holiday Car Rentals

Take the case of Sarah, who traveled from New York to Florida for Thanksgiving. She knew that car rental prices would be high during the holiday season, so she started looking for options a month in advance. By booking early and using a price comparison website, she secured a mid-size car for $150 less than the average rental price for her desired pickup date.

Additionally, she saved even more by renting from a location just outside the airport, avoiding the extra airport taxes. With her AAA membership, she received an additional 15% off the rental price, and she got a free upgrade to a larger vehicle, which made the entire experience more comfortable for her family.

Sarah’s story is an excellent example of how planning ahead, being flexible, and using discounts can result in significant savings during the holiday travel rush.

If you're preparing for holiday travel and want to secure the best car rental deals, head over to Carvel Car Rental for expert advice, discounts, and the best rental options available. Start planning your trip today!