Car Rental Free Upgrade

The first thing you need to consider when renting a car is just what kind of car you will need. Should it be manual or auto? Are you travelling alone, with friends, or with your entire family? You should have a rental car that will transport you comfortably and economically during your holiday.

What Size Do You Need?

If you are travelling alone or with just one or two more people, your should consider something in an economy size. These small cars are generally have manual transmission and will be large enough to provide you with all the room you need for yourself and friends that are none too large.

Not only will this be plenty of car for your travel needs, but it will reward you at the fuel pump. Considering how expensive fuel can be, you would be well served to purchase as little of the stuff as possible. If you are travelling alone, with a small group, or if you are a group of university students (they tend to tolerate situations and conditions that would break a mortal man), the economy car is definitely the way to go for your next trip.

Another bonus of the economy car is the simple fact that they are the most popular size of vehicle. Thus, if you arrive at the rental counter and there aren't any economy cars available, you may be the recipient of the finest gift that can be bestowed on any traveler: the free upgrade.

The Free Upgrade

Rental cars are often not returned on time, so when you step up to the rental desk, a delayed traveler may not have yet arrived with the car that was designated for you. Thus, you may be offered a larger car at the same rate.

If your fuel money is very tight (university students & budget travelers, this means you), you may want to wait for the economy car to arrive. But for those with a little more slack in their traveling expenses, the upgrade can give you and your traveling companions the chance to stretch your legs out that much more while you are on the road.

For those who need a little more space on their trip, a full-size car may be the ticket. Older folks or groups of four or maybe even five if the travelers are small will find that the full-size car provides a little more comfort and gives you some extra leg and elbow room while you are driving.

Though full-size cares are usually pricier than economy cars, you can often find special rates on larger cars. As economy cars are the most popular rentals, full-size vehicles can sometimes be picked up for less money than their smaller brethren. Companies do not want their fleet to be sitting around gathering dust. They want their cars out working for them by making money. So if you need a full-size car, shop around and see if there are any special deals available.

Here is an “insider” tip for you. Free Upgrades are very common, especially in “off season” times of the year. In a competitive market place the free upgrade is a great tool for a car rental company to get your business. When you have chosen a car rental company to deal with here is what you need to say to ensure a free upgrade.

“OK, I’ve just about decided who to choose and your company is on my short list. Your quote is pretty good. Can you guarantee that the vehicle I will be receiving is a new model, less than 12 months old? (Usually met with a positive response from the car rental company). Look to save me looking any further can you promise me that I will receive a free upgrade to (pick your vehicle) if I book with you now. If you can do that then I will rent with you”

Any car rental company would be mad not to give you the free upgrade to secure your business. Try this strategy and see what happens. Make sure that you get the price and vehicle locked in with no hidden charges.

The Mini Van or “People Mover”

For those who need even more room yet, a minivan may be the choice for you. These large, extra-roomy models are perfect for those traveling in particularly large groups. Seven or even eight people can take some long trips in minivans without having to worry about losing anybody.

As well, renting two cars will be more expensive not only in rental costs, but also fuel. One minivan can transport two carloads of people while using less fuel than two cars. This is one of those "economies of scale" situations that are used to explain just what the phrase "economies of scale" means. This is also an excellent way to travel with a large group, as it will keep everybody together so that you can share stories, share experiences, and keep folks from getting into trouble.

When renting, make sure that you choose the car that fits your needs. Consider your traveling companions and your budget, and then you can start looking for the deals that will keep your wallet full, too.

About the Author

David Glendinning operated his own car rental business for a period of 8 years. He now operates his business on the Internet and has several websites relating to car rental and travel. For more travel tips and travel advice visit http://www.YourTravelTips.com.