When you need a last minute car rental, it's important to compare rental cars and do your homework in order to find the best rental car rates for last minute car rentals.
Booking car rentals at the last minute can go one of two ways; you may be able to find a great car rental with last minute deals that are available, or you may end up with a much higher rate than if you booked in advance, due to high demand/low supply.
But there are some tips you can use to try and get the best possible price on a last minute rental.
In order to find the best last minute car rental deals, you need to be prepared to compare rental cars from as many companies as you can.
Check rates for at least 3 different companies (I would personally check 5 or 6, at least!).
If you're flexible with your pickup location for your car rental, last minute deals can sometimes be a little easier to find.
For example, if you're flying into Orlando to visit relatives and can get a drive to an off aiport location, you will often have better luck at a smaller location that my only be 10 or 15 miles away. Check multiple locations in the city or area that you wish to rent in.
Also, when checking for car rental deals last minute, make sure to check all available car sizes and types. While there may not be any specials on compact or midsize cars, you may find a great price on an SUV or convertible. At certain times, those types of specialty vehicles are in low demand, and the rental company would rather see them rented out a lower price than just sit on the lot.
Once you've found the best rental car rates available, or great last minute car rental deals for your city and dates... book it! If at all possible, you should never show up at a car rental counter without a reservation.
You can sometimes find cheaper last minute deals on booking sites, where you pay for your rental car in advance. But keep in mind prepaid rentals are often extremely inflexible and you will probably not be able to change your reservation in any way, or get a refund or credit if your trip gets cancelled.
Make sure to read all terms and conditions when booking such a rental!
So, while booking as far in advance as you can is always a better option, I hope that these last minute rental tips will help you if you ever find yourself needing a rental suddenly.
