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5 Things You Didn't Know About Renting a Car

The good news ... and the bad

by: Peter Greenberg | from: AARP | July 19, 2011

peter greenberg on renting a car, rental cars in lot

— Aurora

En español |1. Early Birds Don't Always Get the Savings

Although you may think that returning a rental car early would save money, think again. Many of the major companies charge fees for bringing a car in before the time stipulated in the contract. Alamo, for example, may change the rate you are charged from a lower weekly rate to a higher daily rate. Enterprise, on the other hand, does not charge this fee. So even if you don't anticipate returning early (who does?), ask the question ahead of time.

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2. Where You Rent Is as Important as What You Rent

Renting a car from an airport location can be a lot pricier than renting from a neighborhood. We're talking anywhere from 20 to 50 percent more. Weigh the costs (and hassles) of getting to an off-airport location (i.e. in the city or suburb itself) versus the actual cost of the car rental before making your decision.

3. Carry a Camera

Take pictures of your rental before you leave the lot to avoid getting dinged for dings that aren't yours. Before getting into the driver seat take pictures and make sure the camera records dates. Then when you return the car, take pictures again and make sure to tell the employees that you did so. If you don't, any scrapes or scratches to the car might be blamed on you, and it will be your word against the rental company's.

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