Among the factors to consider when renting a car are your budget, the type of car you want, and convenience. When you take the time to plan and do some research, you can often find a better deal on rental cars. When you know where to look, you can also find discounts. Use the following tips to save money the next time you need to rent a car.

Do your homework, compare what you are shopping for. If you run out and rent from a company you are familiar with or the first one you see at the airport you aren't likely to get the best rates. The difference between rates and prices of the competing agencies in your town are easy to find when you call a few of them. You might find that one company is offering a great promotional rate at that perfect time when you need to travel. Focus on this element wear a pair of eyeglass frames and look meticulously.
There are more extra options available for drivers to choose from when renting a car. While this can add convenience, you could also end up paying for extra features that you don't need or won't use. Child seats may be offered for an additional charge for those who are traveling with children. If you bring your own, though, you can save money on the extra fees. Another common option that is offered with rental cars is a GPS system. A GPS can be useful in a new area but not if you're traveling somewhere you're familiar with. You may also be offered ski racks and DVD players as options. If there are features you will use, go ahead and enjoy them but save some money by refusing any that you won't use.
Even though these tips have been about saving money on rental cars, sometimes you want to splurge and drive the car of your dreams. With a little research, you may find that this isn't as expensive as you'd think. A wide variety of luxury and specialty models can be found at several car rental agencies. The extra expense of a luxury car may be worth it for a special vacation. If you're considering buying a new car, renting one like it can help you find out if it'll really work for you. Doing a search online can tell you which car rental agencies will have the particular type of car you want to rent.
To make the most out of the many car rental options, the key is to find a rental agency that is convenient and reasonable. Finding one that meets your needs will take some time and a little effort. With these tips in mind and a little planning, you can avoid paying too much for a rental car.