Alamo recently reached out to me to see if I would be interested in helping them share one of their current discount offers, and give away a couple prize packs that include a $100 Amex gift card. Of course I am happy to both share car rental discount information, and get some good prizes in the hands of Mommy Points’ readers, so here are the details.
$20 Off a Weekly Rental:
Alamo is offering $20 off a weekly car rental that is valid until 11/17/12. The rental must be at least five days long and must include a Saturday night. If that deal is helpful for your travel plans, then you can learn more about the discount here. If that discount doesn’t fit with your travel plans, you can also look for discount information related to Alamo on this Flyertalk thread. I recommend never renting a car without finding some sort of discount code or coupon, as you can almost always find some type of discount applicable to your reservation.
Additionally, they want potential renters to be aware that you can save an additional 10% off any Alamo promotion by signing up for the Alamo Insiders loyalty program.
Giveaway:
Alamo is providing two prize packs that include the following items:
- Alamo branded Striped Boat Tote bag
- Alamo branded travel coffee mug
- Alamo branded sunglasses
- Alamo key chain
- Travel scrabble game
- iTrip iPhone/iPod adapter for your car
- $100 Amex giftcard
There will not be a 1099 issued to the winners of these prize packs, so you are in the clear there. To enter to win, just leave a comment on this post stating how you like to go about finding the best deal on car rentals. You must be 18 or up to enter, and you are limited to one entry per person. Void where prohibited by law. Entries must be received by 11:59PM Central on Thursday November 8th.
I love using AutoSlash! Great way to find a deal.
Costco is a great resource
AutoSlash! Also, Travelocity works well to at least start the research to get an idea of general pricing.
I generally just compare Alamo, National and Budget.
I start with Hertz Gold (have 2 discount codes there from employer and Delta.. plus Medallions get MQMs)
Then always run Priceline if I’ll be renting from airport.
I’ll snag a Hertz as backup 9/10 times, then start bidding 50% from Priceline.
United Club Card gives me top level with Avis so I just focus on that. But I do double-check on Enterprise and National since I have a corporate account with them.
Usually compare online Hertz and National since those are the 2 I have status with. Too many CP codes and combinations to deal with to get the best price, but sometimes worth it.
I search one of the metadata sites to quickly compare
I continually recheck rates even after I have something locked in since they often go down close in. For Hawaii discounthawaiicarrental.com worked great for me which checks many sites and came up with a much better rate than I could find.
I’ve had great luck finding car rental deals on Car Rental Savers. I’ve not looked specifically at Alamo before, but I’ve got a few rentals coming up in the next few months, so I’ll go check them out now.
I search orbitz and travelocity for hotel/rental car combos, then I search the hotel sites and rental cars at each company’s site. Usually find the best deal with the combos.
After I book, I keep re-checking, and re-checking, and…
Also, autoslash can be useful…
We had decided to skip a car rental on our next trip but as it got closer Hotwire sent me an email on a super discounted price so we grabbed it – the vendor ended up being Alamo! I’ll be looking to use Hotwire again.
I don’t want to win as a fellow blogger so pick someone else if I happen to win but I love to use MouseSaver for car rental codes & deals:
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http://www.mousesavers.com/transportation-for-disney-vacations/rental-car-discounts/
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A good place to start!
I try AAA rates and check promotions with my frequent flyer programs.
I compare rates on Travelocity.
I have good luck with Hotwire usually.
I always check carrentals.com for the cheapest price then search for a coupon code to apply and book directly with the car rental company itself.
I like to use AutoSlash!
I just use Kayak but I am probably not the most knowledgeable. Great to hear of some of these other sites.
Autoslash!!
I use Travelocity and keep checking back.
I love using AutoSlash!
I start with priceline and a very low bid.
I have recently started with Costco Travel. They have some good offers.
Autoslash. Priceline. Coupon/corporate discounts. Capital one reward booking.
I don’t lock anything in and keep checking.
Supply and demand!!!! I try to look at all my options and not get hooked on one website or rental company.
Always rent a car from alamo. They offer good deals.
I like to use hotwire.com that’s the cheapest way I can find. the downside is it’s prepaid, no refund.
I use Orbitz to price compare
I always book the reservation as soon as possible then check back to see if the rate dropped. If it did, I would rebook.
I go to Hertz.com and look at their public offers and try various combinations. Usually save me $20-$30 on the entire trip.
I start with researching a list of codes, then go to the individual car rental sites and look at rates with the codes. Once I book I always check back for better rates. In April, I needed a car in Florida for a month. The rate started at about $900, but in the end, and after several rate changes, the rate had dropped to $510 all in. Definitely worth my time checking rates every few days…..
I usually use Kayak to compare prices…
I second Costco Travel. They have some incredible rates. I was able to recoup the member fee in one rental and still was ahead compared to several other avenues such as car rental websites and the individual agencies using discount codes.
I use autoslash to find the best car deals.
Priceline.
Costco Travel. Good rates, and if you check Costco Travel periodically after booking you will find even lower rates.
Not that it has anything to do with this prize but alamo.com is always the first or at least one that I always compare with. Even when I got a quote from expedia, I still double checked with alamo.com again.
BTW, MP, did they reach out to you because you were in San Antonio?
Autoslash is the way to go.
Mix of autoslash and checking orbitz and expedia.
I had been using alot of priceline and hotwire but have seen a couple of great deals on travel blogs that I’ve used recently. (hertz $15 a day for weekend + a separate $10 off a day coupon.. for $5+ tax/fees a day). Trying to limit the use of pre-paid sites going forward as flexibility is important.
Travelocity to get a good price, Frequent Flyer Bonuses to get the max miles, and the I keep the reservation on Autoslash in case the price drops.
I search the car rental sites for the best price after checking priceline.com. I then go to coupongreat.com and find a discount code to use for the specific car rental company. I also check FlyerTalk.com to see if there are any other codes I may have missed. I then book the reservation. After booking the reservation I go to autoslash.com and have been very successful in getting alerts where autoslash finds last minute rate reductions even over the reduced fares that I booked originally. This technique has saved me an average $80 per rental over my last 4 rentals!
I start with Hertz, Avis, Budget and Dollar using all my available discount codes, my company’s, AAA and Costco. Once I find a good rate I keep checking back for lower rates.
I have used autoflash before..comparision shopping look for excellent rates
thanks
I use Travelocity, but the key is to keep looking for lower rates. I often find the best rates available just a few days before the rental.
I always book with a discount code which I find on various sites found via google search. i book, then periodically recheck. I’ll re-book and cancel the original reservation if rates drop. If I cannot find a good enough rate, I’ll try to bid on Priceline for a lower rate.
Usually my first stop is flyertalk. AAA is usually my best option. Always keep checking for last minute deals.
I found American Express Blue Savings Program sometimes offer the lowest rates
I generally use hotwire but i’m going to some of the other suggestions in these comments!
I check hotwire and carrentals.com, and I keep checking.
I usually double check alamo right before picking up a car, they have great last minute deals.
I often check orbitz, alamo and thrifty
1st I try a megasite (e.g., kayak), then individual auto rental websites.
I’ve found simply Googling coupons for specific companies always produces great deals!
I usually go to flyertalk for the best discount codes.
I generally search using hotwire.com or expedia.com. Thanks so much!
I usually check the entertainment book for coupons and also ask if any professional organization that I’m a member of has a discount code.
The first thing to do is to sign up for the rental car company membership program. It is vital for National to get a great car, and for Alamo, you do get additional discount plus the advantage of using corporate codes. If not, discount you still get rental credits. Then, flyertalk’s respective threads are very helpful in getting a great rate. After a while, you can usually find the lowest rate within twenty minutes.
AutoSlash
Costco travel,and Priceline.
A combination of mix & match codes found on the forums or Priceline (if I’m feeling lazy). Don’t forget to look at off-airport facilities to save on those ridiculous taxes.
I like to use Autoslash and a search aggregator like bing or Expedia. I’ve been notified several times of price drops with Autoslash.
Kayak then compare to company site and find best rate, but if booked way ahead check about a week out to validate rate.
I search the web for codes. I used to use Sam’s Club codes, but they don’t offer them anymore. We don’t have a Costco nearby, but I’ve considered joining just for the car rental discounts.
I’ve been renting cars now for forty years. In that time I have tried most of the methods above. In the last several year my go to source for car rentals has stricly been COSTCO Travel. Their rates have been consistently lower and as an added bonus they INCLUDE an additional driver at no charge which we can be a very significant savings. Their new format makes it very fast and convenient to compare all of their deals on one screen. I would also suggest re-checking their rates as often as you can as they can bounce around quite a bit. They make it very simple to cancel one resv and do a new one. If you rent more than a few times a year the Costco savings on car rentals easily pays for your membership. As an indicator of prices fluctuating. I rent for a week in Florida several times a year. I have seen rates go from $350 a week all in down to $100. just in a matter of days so it does pay to recheck. One other thing is often people will delay booking if they think prices are too high. That is a mistake if you really need the car book it just in case something is going on that you are not aware of and there happens to be a shortage of vehicles when you are in need of the rental. You can always cancel it later but at least you would have something booked. Good luck
Dear Mommypoints,
I am fairly new to the points game, just over a year, and have already started reaping the rewards for our family of six. We always require a minivan or large SUV, so it has been beneficial for me to use my American Airlines points, eg.17,000 points for a weekly rental in Fort Myers. American Express Travel, Carrental.com, and Advantage have proven beneficial, too…and always with coupons! However, we are traveling to San Antonio and Baltimore in the winter and the rentals are over $500.I always use coupon codes and will definitely join Alamo Insiders within the next five minutes! Any suggestions on my current rentals would be extremely helpful, please. Take care, Mary
Google codes and play around til I find a great price
I definitely need help in this area and was thinking about asking the flying bloggers to help! I do try to use coupons that arrive in my e inbox but usually stick to one brand and I am sure loose out on lots of good deals…
Weekly check for discount codes using google and flyertalk
Use discount codes from costco, bj’s, or entertainment book and then continue to check rates at the individual car rental websites up until a week before trip. Also use Priceline name your price.
I check AAA and compare against Hertz, National, Avis, etc. sometimes Orbitz is helpful. I’ve used autoslash a couple of times as well.
Great! try my luck here.
Also a fan of using Autoslash and a search aggregator like bing or Expedia. I’ve been notified several times of price drops with Autoslash.
I check the Frequent Flyer Bonuses website for discount codes.
vote for Costco travel.
The last post from Doug is exactly how I do it. Just remember to check every so often especially when your rental is getting within a few weeks.
I’ll use FlyerTalk, search around for codes, or ask the agent what the best code is.
I book a reservation as far ahead of time as I can, then keep checking prices every few days — then swap when/if it gets lower. (it usually does about 60 min prior to pickup, so don’t forget to check last minute deals.)
I use a combo of Travelocity (through the UR portal) or Southwest.com, to either get the most UR or Rapid Reward points. I’m curious about Autoslash.
Autoslash or kayak
I generally just use the normal sources Kayak, orbitz, hotwire, etc.
i use kayak and autoslash to compare prices, make sure to check for coupon codes, and also check out costco deals.
I have found that the codes in the entertainment book give me a great rate (usually free day, etc).. We always use Alamo. I always check back to see f the price drops. I will check some of these suggestions listed.
autoslash for sure
I just use the National, Alamo, Hertz or Avis websites OR Costco!
I love to use Autoslash or Hotwire and then search for codes on flyertalk or blogs to see if I can grab a lower price.
I use Autoslash
carrentalsavers.com Or Priceline Or AutoSlash or National promo rates
Depends on my mood and how lazy I get
I go directly to the car-rental company sites.
Autoslash!
I use AutoSlash
I generallly start out with Kayak to see which companies are available, and then I check for discount codes on the cheapest companies listed.
I prefer to stay with Colonel Klunker’s Rent-a-Junker.
I use various sites to compare prices. For my rental a few months back, the best price ended up being through the Cap One booking engine.
On a recent trip to Hawaii I used Alamo for our car rental. Starting about 6 months out from the trip I booked the minivan from Alamo. The great thing is that you can reserve the car and lock in the price without even giving your credit card info. Then about once a week or so I checked the price and if the price was lower I reserved the lower price. Once I got the confirmation email with the lower price I cancelled the original reservation. I did this about 5 times and ultimately got a minivan for 15 days on Oahu for $295 total including Hawaiia’s insane taxes. The car rental ended up being about $10 per day for the minivan. The original booking price was over $1,000 with taxes.
Priceline works well for me in terms of getting the best price in rental cars.
I have had luck with Priceline, booked then found better rate. They matched it and gave$25 back
I use Costco Travel.
I go straight to the company’s site to begin with then compare with orbitz or kayak
priceline to get a good baseline and then purchase from the website of the company with any promo codes I can find.
I like using both autoslash as well as zalyn to find the best coupon/deal.
I usually use the matrix at orbitz to compare, then book the best rate with one of the companies with which I have status so I will get upgraded for free.
Autoslash is the way to go!
southwest.com, even for airports which Southwest itself does not serve (just enter the airport code).
I use hipmunk, the hip chipmunk.
I use USAA.
I use priceline and also compare discounts using coupons available
for North America I start with Kayak…for Europe I start with m-broker
I look at flyertalk forums and try to combine coupons with mileage promos to get decent rebate on what I pay.
Hotwire for sure.
Autoslash, Priceline..
Slickdeals
I use hotwire!
I use Hotwire.com.
Priceline!
I mostly just use Kayak, although sometimes I do a little more research if I’m looking for something unique (like a car rental in Puerto Rico for a driver under 21)
autoslash, kayak or whatever points bonus is available that fits with my goals.
I use Orbitz to compare prices.
I like to use priceline to book my rental cars, but I use betterbidding.com to figure out the lowest price people are getting for the type of rental I want. I then use that information to make a good bid on priceline.
I use travelocity.com to compare rates, and then also search for online coupons and discounts. Most rental car companies also give a AAA discount, so I make sure to get that too.
I am ashamed to admit I just look at the air and hotel sites, to see who is offering the most points for a rental that suits the length of the time I need to rent the car.
I often use Entertainment rates and coupons. I also go to Alamo’s AARP rates page. In addition to good negotiated rates for AARP members (must be 50 or older), the AARP rate always includes one additional driver free (which is a great savings) and unlimited mileage.
I have found that Costco travel is a great place to start checking rental prices. Often they have great rates!
I periodically recheck the rates but I start by using Costco travel.
Would love to get this and come in handle during out layover in SFO. A car rental deal can be found on travelocity
I’ll compare at travelocity or a similar site.
I’ve had great luck with Travelocity when it comes to dropping off a car at a different location.
I Usually go through Flyertalk forums and go from there with the codes.
bid on priceline!
I use Autoslash and Priceline.
Check Kayak and Travelocity first to determine the going rates (in case there is a holiday or convention fluctuation in play), then undercut those prices starting at 50% via Priceline bids. If not accepted, continue to move my acceptable price levels higher from there. Requires patience, multiple accounts, and some time, but the savings are well worth it.
I check my favorite travel blogs!
I use autoslash.com!
Autoslash and Kayak!
Autoslash!
I do priceline and start with a super low bid.
I generally use AutoSlash.
I keep an eye on the travel sites, but always check for a better deal with the rental company when it get’s closer to the trip. Saved hundreds by rebooking.
Rental car momma. She takes care of me.
I read mommpoints to find the best car rental deals!
I read blog posts about coupons.
I don’t hunt down deals, I just go to the big rental agencies and see who is lowest.
Truthfully the way I look into getting a rental car is not that exciting. I usually just search Kayak. Recently I did have some Citi Thank You points that were about to expire. The lowest rate I could find on Kayak was nearly $50 a day, so I checked Citi Thank You, and they were only 10K points for the entire 7 day rental. Was surprised by the savings!
Priceline!
Booking far in advance and then monitoring prices as the date gets closer
I use hotwire.com. I had amazing experience with them getting best bang for buck.
I use Zalyn which has copuons on their site. I love it…
start with kayak but then move to individual company sites to find the right discount code… always takes way too long!
Kayak works for me. If the prices seem to high then I will seek out coupons.
I read flyertalk for codes and than search. Reading these comments maybe I should join Costco.
I use Priceline bidding and that is best
I’ll check costco and AAA. Google search any coupons. But, most of the time find the best deals using Hotwire or Priceline.
I use travelocity
I like looking on zalyn for discount codes.
I compare the different rates online using sites like Expedia.
I use autoslash!
I check most mega travel websites, look for shared codes from my MP and FT friends, and follow up with the lowest rental car company directly.
I lost the best way for discounts, so this is helpfull.
I start with Kayak and Orbitz, then go to the site of the car rental company and enter coupon codes and my membership numbers.
Costco and AAA and on occasion, I’ve found BJ’s wholesale’s coupon codes can be competitive. . Combine this with Hertz #1 Gold or National Emerald Club and the experience is quite easy.
I am a fan of autoslash!
autoslash, biddingfortravel.com, costco, hotwire, priceline…I compare them all…but first reserve something just in case.
Zalyn.com has become my go to site.
I use Kayak in conjunction with Zalyn.com
If I can find a deal on Priceline, I do that first. Otherwise, I like to link through Ebates or use an Entertainment Book coupon.
Costco all the way!
I use a combination of Kayak and Priceline.
I had a great experience with Car Rental Savers – almost 50% less that any competitor during our week in Oahu
I just use my AMEX platinum discounts and go with whomever is cheapest.
I don’t drive [yet], so no searching for me!
Ebates then Autoslash
Another great promo. Kayak.
Costcotravel.com or Kayak
Review Autoslash and travel blogs
Check my employer’s website for corporate discounts at Avis and Hertz
I’ve had good luck with Priceline IPhone specials.
AutoSlash or Priceline if there’s nothing on AutoSlash.
Autoslash is the quickest and easiest way to go.
I use travelocity or just compare all the sites.
AUTOSLASH is my preferred method…………..
I use hotwire for good rental car deals.
I check Carrentalsavers for a starting rate and see what type of discounts and coupons are available. Then I check Flyertalk for codes. I have found the best coupons in the Entertainment book.
Hotwire priceline autoslash
flyertalk and travel blogs
I find many good rental offers on Flyertalk. Sometimes it feels as if that community filters through many opportunities and reports the mostly the valuable deals.
Hotwire is the best!
I baseline with Expedia and compare with Hotwire/Priceline
I LIKE HOTWIRE, HAVE A GREAT DAY
Google the company + coupon code, get best rates!
I like to use Costco & Zalyn! I can never remember what associations have discounts that I legitimately belong to.
kayak.com plus pay attention to blogs and new specials!
I have a hard time comparing codes for rental cars, there are so many! I usually use kayak. But after reading other suggestions, next time I will use hotwire. Thanks!
I went with Autoslash recently, and they kept bringing the prices lower and lower. I had a greta rate, and since that was locked in, I tried my luck at Priceline the day before we were to go, and got an even better deal!
I often google or check Costco. But now I know about autoslash which looks great.
I like using Kayak.com.
I usually will start with a quick kayak check.
I use autoslash; and Autoeurope for foreign rentals…the UK site is sometimes better than the US site !
I check rentalcodes.com and use southwest.com to plug in up to 5 of these so i can compare side by side
I have consistently found the best car rental deals on hotwire.com
Autoslash.
I make a reservation at my favorite Car rental company’s web site and check multiple times for lower rates. I often get cars for $12-18 a day.
I use hotwire.com to compare price
I go online and search for deals–takes about one hour
I am using AutoSlash to find best deal.
Mostly on Hertz since they waive the underage fee with certain codes.
Sometimes I check the price on Costco Travel for good pricing.
I search milepoint for tips or discount codes.
I generally just compare Alamo, National and Budget.
I search group sites like carrentalsavers.com and then compare with the company’s site to see if it’s the same price with the same codes.
I search Kayak.com
I start with kayak, use that to look at zalyn for coupons, and then go through my archived emails from car rental places. Lastly I check hotwire who sometimes has special deals.
For personal use, I go to carrentals.com. For business use, we have a contract so I really have no choice.
I use secondary sellers like Rhino Car rental.
I usually start off with Kayak and then further search on the car rental website – Alamo.com under special deals.
I start with AAA, then widen my search. I generally stick to the rental companies’ sites. I don’t really like to do business with priceline or hotwire.
Kayak.com
I like to use AutoSlash!
I use flyertalk or AARP.
I use Autoslash! Keeping up with my travel blogs helps, too!
Compare on Kayak, and then head to Alamo and other sites directly to enter those coupons
I use orbitz.
holliister at gmail dot com
Expedia/Travelocity/Hotwire/Priceline followed by general car rental Coupons/miles earning rentals/hotel points earning rentals.
I usually book at Alamo using Aarp codes.
autoslash!
priceline
Priceline
Start with expedia/travalocity, then Autoslash.
I usually search on Expedia and then do searches to find coupon codes for different car rental companies. I also keep my eyes open for airline deals for rental cars (extra mileage and discount codes).
from bloggers like yourself
I use AutoSlash.
I usually check flyertalk for buzz about car rental deals.
I first check Autoslash and Hipmunk, then compare on Orbitz and Expedia.
Autoslash and Kayak!
I have never rented a car before.
I have good luck with airline car rental sites.
I always check out expedia, priceline, & autoslash. Then i look for coupon codes.
Priceline or directly from rental companies with coupon codes.
Autoslash, priceline and retailmenot…lots of work to find the lowest rates!
I use the Costco site.
Try to find good coupon codes and lots of online comparing. After reading these comments, I’m beyond excited that we will FINALLY be getting a Costco at the end of this month.
I usually go through Priceline.com
I use costco priceline
A combo of Kayak and Autoslash are the ways I find great car deals.
I use hotwire
http://www.frequentflyerbonuses.com, individual car rental companies sites or if all fails, just rent from enterprise.
Start out with a general site like Orbitz then go to each site directly with discount codes like those from Costco or the Entertainment book. Also try the individual agency websites directly as Hertz has a pre-pay option that doesn’t stack with codes, and Dollar/Thrifty have a ‘hot deals’ that can save a few bucks. Usually book directly with the company unless Hotwire is substantially cheaper, have been partial to Hertz lately due to ease of earning rewards through e-rewards.
I like using Autoslash
I like to check priceline, then hotwire and then autoslash. Also AAA.com. Where ever I book, I use autoslash.com to track it and rebook if the price drops.
I check Kayak.com and then check airline websites to see what promos they have!
my secret weapon for car rentals – bj’s wholesale club
I generally look for a promo code/link with a discount from whichever airline I am travelling so I can rack of airline miles in addition to the reward program of the car rental agency.
I find hotwire.com to be pretty good at finding great deals on rentals cards.
rentalcars.com
An app – frugal flyer, comparing several website’s rental cost
While I enjoy Alamo and National,as a USAA member we get no loss of use fees, dimunation fees, admin fees, LDW w a $5k deductible and liability for Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Enterprise. This is on top of a nice discount and use of coupons (like $30 off for weekly rental over the holidays). Even if the total rate is more, the insurance coverage is great.
I typically check flyertalk to see if there are any coupons to be had, and what bonuses (and miles of course!) are offered!
I use priceline and economybooking.com. Best discounts here.
Hubby is a Hertz gold member and we have the AAA rate, but hotwire always seems to beat any kind of discounted rate we can get from Hertz (and the last two times we ended up getting Hertz cars anyways).
I usually pick the car rental company that favors me, the consumer, and the cars that can be rented in my area like Alamo (you never know when you’ll need to rent or when you car will break down). Giveaways also let me consider switching rental car loyalty.
Alamo insiders is my favorite
I find the best deals on Boardingarea.com and http://www.flyertalk.com they always have the best secret deals on car rentals all the time.
Kayak, Priceline, autoslash
I’ve always found it in my best interst to go with USAA rates as well. Not always the lowest, but no worries when the insurance is taken into account.
I like Autoslash!
I usually just go to Fatwallet’s deals forum and check out the rental car thread fro the current coupons.
I always check autoslash and zalyn to find the best coupon deal(s)
I typically use Kayak.com to search out the best rental car deals, then apply whatever discount or group codes that I have for a little more savings!
I use my employer’s loyalty codes – and normally rent cars only for work travel.
I tend to only use my Triple A membership as I have status with another company, but I’m certainly willing to look at another!
I book with National Executive where I can usually select a minivan for the price of a midsize!
I like to start with searching Hertz website.
I usually go to Retailmenot.com and compare the current coupon/promo codes to find the best rates.
I look for promotions via flyertalk and my favorite travel bloggers.
1) carrentalsavers.com
2) costco
3) hubby’s work discount
Usually need an SUV or minivan for family. Each has it’s own benefit depending on location/type of car.
I use sites like Kayak to compare rates and find the best deals.
Thanks for the cool giveaway!
wildorchid985 @ gmail dot com
chase UR web site
I browse the message boards (flyertalk etc) and sometimes find the best deal at costco.
After I book, I keep re-checking for price changes!
I use Priceline. Often I name my own price.
Hotwire has worked for me
I book the best deal I can using the coupons and codes I find available at the time. Then, I register the reservation number with AutoSlash to see if they find a better deal, prior to the rental.
Just like to use the one with best coupons codes.
I like using Kayak to get a sense of what my options are, then where possible I book through Autoslash to get the best deal. It’s a 1-2 punch!
I always use autoslash.
I start with Kayak then look on bloggers like Deals We Like or Mommy Points!
Costco is always a safe bet
Start with Kayak and then Autoslash.
I love autoslash
Since every city I travel to has differing rates, I use Chase UR first to look at which car rental company offers the best rate per car class. Then, based on that info, I then go to that car rental company website to get their rental rate which most always will be lower when using their promotion codes. Alamo is one of the two car rental companies that I like as it is paired up with National – the other car rental company I generally use.
I like AutoSlash but also check for location-specific booking companies.
Just do a google search for auto rental coupons and of course check milepoint and Flyertalk forums.
I plan many vacations around the schedule for weekend rates for car rentals. Thursday afternoon is a great arrival time with a Monday afternoon return. autoslash.com can optimize your rental by cost whereas http://www.frequentflyerbonuses.com/carbonus.html has a good reference list of mileage promotions. Either way, this Alamo Insider would love the prize package.
I tend to rely on Kayak and Priceline. Mycoke rewards also sometimes has deals for coke points with car agencies.
I start with the internet, usually Kayak first then individual car rental websites to verify and compare.
Look for promo codes and reserve directly on their site.
I generally start looking about a month out. I scour everywhere for coupon codes and keep booking and cancelling when I find a lower price. Alamo Insiders is good to join . Sometimes you get a $40 off coupon from them.
Flyertalk
I would use the AutoSlash site and also check out the Costco website. Thanks.
autoslash and costco!
My primary car insurance provider partners with some rental companies to give members discounts, which are usually stackable with the rental company’s promotions. It comes in handy most of the time. Also, loyalty with rental brands offer exclusive discounts that can be anywhere from an additional 5-20% off.
I always check out Alamo.com to find the best car rental deals!
Priceline is best
Kayak and travelocity
I use Auto slash.
I’ve tried many different ways but have generally found Costco to be the most effective and easiest. Last time I tried to use Autoslash, but was pretty disappointed with the service.
After reading everyone’s comments, I guess I’ll try Auto Slash.
[...] Points is giving away a $100 AMEX gift card to two lucky [...]
thanks mommypoints!!
i check fatwallet.com & priceline…
I search the many blogs I subscribe to in Google Reader.
I try AARP member discount first. Also, if you have a Discover card you can convert $ 20 worth of rewards for $40 rental credit at Alamo or Enterprise. This is valid only on the base charge and not on the taxes. This is a great way to reduce your rental charges
I usually use Expedia and then compare it with Alamo, Budget and Hertz.
I like kayak for their design
I check AAA, Costco, and Kayak. Then I see if there are any bonuses being offerred by UA or AA.
Typically use Kayak to search multiple at once, but the Costco Travel sounds interesting. Thanks to the commenters for that suggestion.
I like going to retail mount to find the best coupons.
Orbitz has been my go-to for a while
I find that Car Rental Savers has a good collection of deals, coupon codes and links to car rental deals. I always look there and check the individual rental company sites to get the best deals when renting a car.
AutoSlash is awesome! So are FlyerTalk and FatWallet compiled lists of coupons and contract IDs/CDPs to use! And if not supported by AutoSlash, keep checking rates!
I spend way too much time checking all of the sites when I need a car rental.
I usually look on the daily deal sites to see what promotions are going on.
Considering I never rented a car since I’m 21 y.o., never had to search for a good price.
Hertz Gold has usually worked out well for me!
I usually use kayak to find good rates.
I like using mousesavers for florida and california based rentals.
I sign up for each rental car companies loyalty program. So, I’m emailed deals and promotions.
I’ve never needed to rent a car? Pretty lame huh.
I like to use the rental company’s website to search for my rentals.
I recently rented a car and this is how I go about renting one. I search thru southwest.com car rental to see which company offers the lowest price of the car type I need. I then search for the coupon code of that company and book it direclty with the car rental.
Pls pls pls.. this would work out prefect for a day rental for our SFO visit.
We normally rent via AutoSlash or if not Dollar for the best value
I start with Hotwire and then check the websites for the car rental companies. Would love to hear any secrets about how to get cheap one-way rentals with no per mile or drop off fees.
Airline Magazines generally have good deals in them.
I use orbitz
for car rentals, i generally use the following: autoslash, hotwire, priceline
Expedia is the best unless you’re booking day of/day before. Then I usually take advantage of my free Hertz gold account.
I always START with Hotwire just to get a reasonable idea of what a good rate should be, then I go to AutoSlash.com and they usually beat it.
Hotwire usually… But I recheck over and over.
Costco is pretty reliable
Hotwire for airport rentals , else Costco or AAA.
I usually use Kayak and check FlyerTalk too for codes
Usually Priceline or other hot rental deals.
I book early with Avis or Hertz and constantly recheck to see if rates have dropped.
I check out the discount threads on flyertalk and play around with the coupon code and corp code combinations to find something to my liking. Hasn’t failed me yet.
I check Alamo for discount codes, then Hotwire and Priceline.
priceline it
AutoSlash, then check to see if any reward programs offer bonus miles.
I go to Kayak and then compare each company’s results.
I look online, and through frequent flyer blogs – discounts plus miles makes me happy!
Costco and Autoslash.
I compare rates on their websites.
I use tripAdvisor and Priceline bidding
I use priceline most of the time and bid pretty low.
I use autoslash.
I generally go to each individual website and select the type of car I want, but after looking at some of the other comments AutoSlash seems to be a good choice.
I use Hotwire.com
I check the websites (including autoslash, orbitz) make a reservation, and then watch closely!
I check and re-check rates everyday! I also always use coupons along with AAA/USAA CDPs!
Autoslash as well as AAA coupons
Autoslash (although it is not a good as before)
I use carrentalsavers.com and periodically recheck and rebook as necessary. I also like BJ’s if I want to add another driver who is not a spouse.
I use AutoSlash and Hotwire!
Like many others, I start with autoslash. I may check other sites from there, depending on the results.
I try different discount rates and check promotions with my frequent flyer programs.
I usually go through hotwire but lately autoslash has been pretty clutch.
I check expedia and then I bid about 50% less on Priceline
So far Costco has given me the best rate.
Check expedia first, then follow up with individual sites.
Priceline worked for me the best way a few times!
Hertz gold usually provides a decent deal.
I start with Hertz and then auto slash and go from there
I haven’t ever found a deal because I haven’t needed one. But I will probably be in need of a rental in the future with the way things are working out so I will check out Alamo.
I visit blogs and google promotions
AutoSlash is the only way to go!
I submit “car rental deals” into Google search and then browse. Many are saying AutoSlash is the way to go…. I will have a peek !
I usually c=just google it.
I like to check the flyertalk forums for the best coupons and of course carrentalsavers
I prefer using Kayak as a base for searching for prices, and later purchase through a cashback portal and use a coupon. Can be pretty substantial savings! Thanks MP.
AutoSlash!
I use Travelocity.
I always use google and follow the threads.
I always check on Priceline.com. They’re the best
I generally start with Kayak to get an idea of prices for my travel dates, but often I have found the best deal through Hotwire. I definitely want to check out Autoslash now!
P.S. I love that Alamo allows your spouse to be added as an additional driver at no charge! They are one of the few companies that will do so.
I just use Kayak as a baseline and see if I can do better by going to indiv rental co. sites. But I have picked up some great ideas here, thanks! I also try to go through topcashback if possible to get a little cha-ching back after the fact. Pick me, pick me!
I like to book a cheap, compact/economy car and then at the airport many times I am offered an upgrade to a much larger vehicle, often a SUV, at little or no extra cost, since they are in greater need of the smaller, economical cars. This especially works well if my flight gets in late and they are running low on the cheaper cars.
I use kayak!
What great ideas in these comments! I’ve used Autoslash but I think I’ll try Costco Travel next time I book.
I use Kayak and Rental Car Momma.
I go to the rental company’s website
I use Priceline.
Autoslash. Priceline. Coupon/corporate discounts. Capital one reward booking
I like to use Milepoint
Costco Travel all the way!
I love your blog! I read it almost daily!
Autoslash for sure. Save me a great deal of money in Hawaii this summer.
I always look for the cheapest Hotwire rate and then bid about 10-20% lower on Priceline.
I usually check for any codes or special offers with an airline program to start with. I’ll also check each car rental’s website and hotwire. Then I’ll go with the cheapest and usually smaller car (but not always the smallest as there are 4 of us and luggage).
Capital One
I use kayak to start, and then play around with different codes on each individual website. If renting from an airport I use Priceline for a cheaper rate.
Costco’s travel service is pretty reliable for the lowest prices.
I check a number of sites. Last time I rented a car, United Airlines portal gave me a great deal.
Usually I hit Travelocity to start, but I get emails from most of the car rental agencies already.
I google for discount codes!
I scour the net for promo codes and test away. I typically can always come up with a rate I am happy with.
I drive myself nuts checking each site and using different coupons, codes, etc. And then I re-check them until I leave. Way too much work, but I’m a sucker for finding the deals…even when it drops my hourly rate to $0.06!
Kayak
I usually use Priceline’s Name Your Own Price if it’s set dates. If not I’ll shop Kayak, then usually check Hertz and National individually with any coupons I can find.
Costco was where I would go but now maybe I should just this this list
I search on Kayak and compare the results with those of any discount codes provided from airlines.
I search online for promo codes and discounts
I check for eligible discount codes and book a car. After that, check back periodically to see if rates got lower since car rentals are usually have no cancel policy.
I start with kayak and Hotwire. I use discount codes. I check back frequently.
Another vote for Costco Travel.
Autoslash
I use the good ‘ol yellow pages and call around! Pick me!
I usually do a google search of the area in which I’m renting a car to see how the local companies compare to the national brands. If the local brands are significantly cheaper, I go with them. If not I compare the national brands w/ discount codes found through a google/FlyerTalk search. I also take mileage offers into account.
I search for coupons and discounts, and check with AAA
Just curious, did anyone ever win this drawing? I think I missed the update.
Chris, you haven’t missed it. I’m a bit delinquent on it due to being on the road all this week. Plan to have the winners announced in the next 24-48 hours.
Hi!
Sorry if I came across impatient, I was sincerely just curious. I know that right now you are on the MegaDo 4 and that is so awesome! I thoroughly enjoy your blog posts and your tweets. It sounded like today was quite an experience. Enjoy the Do!
Oh no, not at all. It is on my to-do list for sure!