Rental car prices vary often, so it’s important to know when the best time to book is. Find out when is the perfect time to rent a car.
Main airport or major city
In busier locations, such as large airports or popular destinations, car rental companies change rates frequently, often several times in the same day. The changes are often minimal, but they can also be quite important at times. If your destination is popular enough, you should book as soon as you know what you need. Choosing the exotic car rental miami is most important here.
Smaller airports and away from the main centers
If you rent a car in a less busy location, the prices tend to stay the same. We recommend that you book as soon as you know your travel dates. In smaller locations, cars may run out and therefore waiting for lower prices can be risky.
What kind of car do you need?
If you are looking for a particular car, such as a 7-seater van, a luxury car, a convertible or an all-wheel drive car, you should book as soon as possible. Car rental companies usually have less availability for particular cars and once they are sold out they cannot get them in any way. The rates of these cars don’t change often, so you will rarely find last-minute deals. Choosing the luxury car rental miami is the best deal here.
When is the best time to book a rental car?
Usually, the best time to book is between 3 and 6 months before travel. Prices are often very competitive with this advance. On the other hand, if you book earlier, there aren’t many advantages. Indeed, rates are often higher 1 year earlier.
There should be no problems if you are looking for a type of car among the most common, such as an economy, compact or city car, and you want to book close to departure. Car rental companies have many models for these types, although rates may increase based on demand.
What if you need a car at the last minute?
It may happen that you have to book something last-minute. If you book a week before departure, prices are likely to be high. In the 48 hours before your trip, fares will almost certainly increase.
Nonetheless, car hire in some locations is still very cheap. So if you can’t help but book last-minute, don’t worry too much. You should book online, even a few hours before pickup. This way, you can compare prices and choose the cheapest offer, rather than having to accept what’s left at the car rental counter.
What happens if the rates drop after you have booked?
Rental terms and conditions vary on a case-by-case basis, but free cancellation is often offered. This means that for a certain period of time you can cancel and receive a full refund of your booking. For example, the free cancellation could be in the first few days immediately after booking or at any time up to 2 hours before picking up the car. Check the Terms and Conditions of your booking. If after booking you find a cheaper price (and you have free cancellation), cancel and book the new offer.
