There are a lot of things that can go wrong when renting a car these days. From sky-high gas prices to rent a car Lahore with driver shortages to those annoying fees they add on at the last minute, the process can be full of costly mistakes.
The new golden rule is to book early, but there are also a few other ways to save time and money on your next rental. Here, Weinberg gives you some money-saving tips that will help your next trip go smoothly.
ALWAYS BOOK WAY AHEAD OF TIME
Even though it might seem obvious, how soon you book can make the difference between getting a great deal on rent a car lahore and paying too much.
This is especially true in places where you need a car to get around and in areas where people often search. An expert suggests that people book at least six to eight weeks in advance. “But really, the earlier the better”!
CHECK OUT SITES FOR CHEAP TRAVEL
No matter what deal you think you’re getting, there’s probably one that’s cheaper. First, you should know that the last place to book a car for rent in Lahore is on the website of an agency. There are always better deals on discount travel sites, and they will still honour any frequent driver rewards programmes you have.
Then look at where you will be picked up. Because airports charge extra fees and taxes, the price of your rental car may be higher at the airport than at a location away from the airport.
Other times, it might not be worth the extra trouble, especially if you have to pay for a cab or rideshare to get there.
DON’T PAY FOR A RENTAL IN ADVANCE
Even though supply and demand have changed the game a lot, you still don’t want to pay for a rental in full in advance. Rates over rent a car Lahore self-drive can be different in each city, and they can change right up until the day you pick up the keys.
The great thing about renting a car is that there isn’t much risk involved in making a reservation. Before you get to the counter, you can change it or cancel it.
Just make sure to keep track of your rent a car from Lahore to Islamabad reservation. If a cheaper rate comes up, they will let you know. If the price drops, just cancel your reservation and make a new one at a lower price.
Some rental companies let you lock in a low or discounted rate in advance and then cancel with a full refund if you change your mind.
USE MEMBERSHIP AND DISCOUNT LOYALTY OFFERS
People often join clubs or pay for services that could save them money on a rental. Consider joining a rental company’s loyalty programme if you rent more than once or twice a year. Not only will you earn points toward future trips, but you’ll also be able to skip the line and go straight to the parking lot.
And if you’re travelling with kids, you might want to bring an infant car seat that can also be used as a stroller. If not, you might end up paying for a used car seat.
YOU HAVE TO PAY THE TOLLS
The “convenience” of a toll transponder inside the car will be offered by rental agencies. But if you turn it on, you’ll have to pay a daily fee for as long as you rent the car. This kind of nonsense adds up a lot. Bring your own EZ-Pass or cash to the toll gate to save yourself some trouble during car booking Lahore.
CHECK THE RECEIPT TWICE FOR EXTRA CHARGES
Companies of the Pakistan rent a car Lahore are proud of how quickly customers return their cars, but they are notorious for charging extra, unexpected fees when customers drop off their cars. Agents count on the fact that you’re in a hurry to catch a flight, so they might sneak in a refuelling fee or charge a late fee when you were actually on time.
Before you leave the lot, you should always get a receipt and look over the charges. Talk to an on-site manager if something smells fishy. You’re much more likely to solve the problem if you talk to them in person than if you call them later.
STOP PAYING FOR INSURANCE ON RENTAL CARS
Car insurance in the rent a car in Lahore is a must. But most renters don’t know that their existing car insurance policy or a premium credit card in their wallet usually covers their rental.
With just a swipe of my card, I know I’m covered in case of an accident, theft, or even a lost baby bear.