5 Tips To Save Money On Rental Cars
When looking for a van hire on the Gold Coast, there are a few things you can do to save money. Here are five of the simplest things you can try:
1. Get the ideal size that suits your purpose
Consider the size of the vehicle you’ll need, often a smaller car or van will not only cost less each day you hire it, but they’re more economical
2. Book early
Make your bookings as soon as you have a set time you’ll require a rental. This is the easiest way to get a good discount as well as ensuring you get the vehicle you desire
3. Pick up and drop off your rental vehicle from the depot
Although most companies offer a pick up and drop off service, this can be an expensive option. But before you dismiss it, take the time to investigate the costs involved in getting to the rental company’s depot and getting home again after your hire has finished. If you are taking a taxi one or both ways it could cost far more than the extra charge for having the rental dropped to you right when you need it and then picked up.
Hiring a rental from airports and in city centres is almost always more expensive because you have to pay a premium to cover the high office rentals there. The same company will offer the same vehicle at a much reduced price from their main depot.
4. Off peak discounts
During quiet times such as midweek and off season times, most rental companies try and get more customers by offering reduced rates for the times when they have surplus vehicles available. Call in or chat to them on their website to find out then they have the best discounts, then see if you can fit your rental around these times. Often van rental companies, especially for vehicles such as van and Utes offer a good rate for overnight rentals. This is where you pick up the vehicle after 4.30pm and return it the next morning before 8am.
5. Insurance
Insurance is a big issue with all rentals, it’s vital you’re fully covered. Most accidents are not usually the drivers fault, but with a rental you are always liable for any damage in the first instance, regardless of whose fault it is. This means having a good insurance cover is vital. All rental policies include a standard cover which comes into effect once repair costs go over a certain amount, usually $300 to $7oo. This means you are not covered for small dents and scratches that could happen in a parking area when the vehicle is unattended, broken windscreens and the like.
Check your household and vehicle insurance policies as many of these also include any rental vehicles you hire. Most major credit cards now have an automatic full insurance cover for any rental vehicles you pay for using your card.
You can save lots of money by talking to the friendly van hire people on the Gold Coast. They have good discounts for off peak times and local hires with the best service. They can save you time and money by dropping off a vehicle when you need it and collecting it when you’re finished.