8 TIPS TO GET AN UPGRADED RENTAL CAR FOR THE PRICE OF ECONOMY

If you’ve recently rented a car while traveling, you may have noticed it has become quite expensive. But what if you could rent the cheapest car available and still get an upgrade to the car you want or need?

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This article will show you how with a few practical tips and tricks.

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Start With an Economy or Compact Car

The first thing you need to do is start your reservation with the lowest-offered car type, usually an economy or compact car. History shows that upgrading from an economy or compact car to a mid-sized car is easier than going from a mid-size to an SUV or luxury car.

Keep in mind that some salespeople will attempt to get you to pay for an upgrade. This is because they’ll earn a commission. If they do, ask if the car you reserved is available. If not, they must provide you with a complimentary upgrade to the next type of car.

Join a Rental Company’s Loyalty Program

When you book your reservation, make sure you sign up for the company’s loyalty program. Not only will you earn rewards toward free rentals, but you’ll have a better chance of earning an upgrade.

Some credit cards also come with automatic high status for car rental loyalty programs, which often provide complimentary upgrades to their elite members.

“Building loyalty with a specific car rental brand can have its benefits,” said Dimpee Kalita, VP of sales at RateGain. “Frequent customers often receive better customer service and may have access to additional perks. A loyal customer can simply ask the agent for an upgrade at the counter–you’d be surprised how often the answer is ‘yes’ when it comes to someone who has established loyalty with the rental brand.”

Ask for an Upgrade at the Counter

Sometimes, it pays just to be nice. When you’re checking in for your rental, be courteous and ask the agent if they have any upgrades available. While it’s not always possible, it’s worth asking. Remember that you’re more likely to get the worst car on the lot than an upgrade if you’re rude.

Pick Up Your Rental at a Peak Time

No one likes to wait when picking up a rental car, but waiting can actually help you score an upgrade. If you pick up your car during a busy time and that day’s returns haven’t started coming in, they could be running low on cars. If they don’t have the car you reserved, you’ll get upgraded to the next type of car they have in stock.

Search for a Free Upgrade Deal

With so many rental car companies to choose from, each is fighting for your business. Because they know people love to score a great deal, they frequently try to lure in your business this way.

Most rental car companies have a deals page on their website. They could be offering a discounted rate or a free upgrade. Before booking your car, do a quick search to see if they offer any promotions. For example, both Budget and Alamo have a dedicated page, and each offers free upgrades.

Use Your Club or Association Membership To Get an Upgrade

If you’re a member of AAPR or AAA, your membership will provide you with discounts and free upgrades at several car rental companies. The same applies to Costco, Sam’s Club and BJ’s Warehouse members. Each provides its members with travel deals, including free upgrades on rental cars.

Book Direct

Instead of booking through an online travel platform like Priceline or Expedia, book your car reservation directly with the rental car company. They are more likely to offer upgrades, because they don’t have to pay the referral commission.

“Booking directly with the car rental company can offer more flexibility, better customer service and a higher priority for vehicle allocation,” said Kalita. “Some brands prioritize vehicle availability for customers who book directly with them, as opposed to those who use online travel agencies.”

Ask for a Price Match

If you find another car rental company offering a lower price on the same type of car, use this as leverage. When you go to pick up your car, show the agent the lower price and ask if they will price match. Sometimes, they might be willing to give you a lower price, but most of the time, they’ll offer to upgrade you to a better car.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 8 Tips To Get an Upgraded Rental Car for the Price of Economy

2024-05-05T16:18:03Z dg43tfdfdgfd