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Convenient and Cheap: Top 10 Airport Car Rental Companies
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mranleec
6 min read
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According to a NerdWallet analysis, travelers must identify the most convenient and cheapest rental car companies to use at airports. Cost and convenience are significant factors, as they directly impact a traveler's financial plan and overall experience. Thrifty, Hertz, and Enterprise tend to be the cheapest rental car providers at airports. However, prices can vary significantly depending on location and timing. Major markets often offer better deals, and using a credit card with rental benefits or booking through a phone app can also provide additional savings. Moreover, the availability of shuttles to and from the rental location can enhance convenience.
Top 10 Airport Car Rental Companies
marketwatch.com
Here's a table of the top 10 rental car companies typically found at airports, along with brief introductions and average daily rates:
These companies offer a range of services including online reservations, insurance options, and shuttle services to and from airport terminals. Rates can vary significantly based on location, vehicle type, and demand. Many offer loyalty programs that can provide better deals and expedited service for frequent renters. It's important to compare prices and read the terms carefully, as some companies may have stricter cancellation policies or additional fees
| Company | Brief Introduction | Average Daily Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | Known for excellent customer service and a wide variety of vehicles | $50-$70 |
| Hertz | One of the oldest and largest rental agencies, popular with business travelers | $55-$75 |
| National | Offers a unique "Emerald Aisle" program for loyalty members | $60-$80 |
| Alamo | Budget-friendly option with self-service kiosks for faster rentals | $45-$65 |
| Avis | Focuses on corporate and frequent renters with its Preferred program | $55-$75 |
| Budget | True to its name, offers competitive rates and frequent promotions | $40-$60 |
| Thrifty | Known for low rates and a straightforward rental process | $35-$55 |
| Dollar | Budget-friendly option with a rewarding loyalty program | $35-$55 |
| Sixt | European company expanding in the U.S., known for luxury vehicles | $65-$85 |
| Fox | Smaller agency offering competitive rates in major markets | $30-$50 |
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Customer Satisfaction Rankings
businesstravelnews.c...
According to J.D. Power's 2023 North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study, Enterprise ranks highest in overall customer satisfaction for the third consecutive year, with a score of 866 out of 1,000
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. National follows closely in second place with 865 points, while Alamo secures third position with 862 points2
. The industry average for customer satisfaction has improved to 843 points, up from 829 in 20223
. This increase is attributed to stabilized pricing, increased vehicle availability, and enhanced staffing at rental locations2
. Enterprise's success is partly due to its unique approach of more personalized interactions with customers during the rental process2
. National excels in the pick-up process and rental car experience, particularly appealing to business travelers who prefer self-selection of vehicles2
. Alamo stands out for its efficient return process2
. On the other end of the spectrum, Thrifty consistently ranks at the bottom, struggling to meet customer expectations for low prices in the post-pandemic market2
.5 sources
Airport Rental Convenience Factors
dispatch.com
Convenience is a huge factor for travelers when choosing a rental car company at airports. Several key elements contribute to a seamless rental experience:
- On-site location: Rental agencies with counters directly within the airport terminal offer the most convenience, allowing customers to quickly pick up their vehicle after landing.1
- Efficient shuttle services: For off-site locations, frequent and reliable shuttle buses between the airport and rental facility are essential.1
- Streamlined reservation process: User-friendly online booking systems and mobile apps enable easy reservations and modifications.2
- Express check-in: Programs that allow customers to bypass the counter and go directly to their vehicle save time for business travelers and frequent renters.2
- Vehicle availability: A diverse fleet ensures customers can find their preferred car type without delays.3
- Flexible pick-up and drop-off options: Some companies offer services like meeting customers at their arrival gate or allowing car returns at different locations.14
- 24/7 customer support: Round-the-clock assistance via phone or in-person helps address any issues that may arise during the rental period.2
- Clear pricing and policies: Transparent rates, insurance options, and cancellation policies help customers make informed decisions and avoid surprises.5
5 sources
Rental Hidden Fees and Charges
wired.com
Airport car rentals often come with hidden fees that can significantly increase the final cost. Common charges include airport surcharges, which can add up to 18.4% to the base rate
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, and location fees imposed by airports on rental companies1
. Other hidden costs may include additional driver fees, insurance, fuel charges, and mileage fees2
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. To avoid these expenses, consider renting from off-airport locations, using credit card insurance coverage, and refueling the vehicle before return5
. Compare rates across multiple companies, as prices can vary based on timing and inventory. Some rental agencies, like Enterprise and National, are known for more transparent pricing and better customer satisfaction3
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. Business travelers can benefit from loyalty programs that offer perks and potentially waive certain fees3
. Always read the terms and conditions carefully before making reservations to understand the full cost breakdown and avoid unexpected charges at the counter.5 sources
Car Rental Rewards and Loyalty Programs
bankrate.com
Loyalty programs offered by major rental car companies provide significant benefits to frequent renters, especially business travelers. These programs typically offer points or credits for each rental, which can be redeemed for free rentals, upgrades, and other perks. For example, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards allows members to earn points on rentals, with higher tiers offering bonus points and free upgrades
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. National's Emerald Club provides expedited service and the ability to choose any car from the Emerald Aisle, with Executive members earning free rental days faster1
. Enterprise Plus offers tiered benefits, including bonus points and free upgrades based on rental frequency1
. Many programs partner with airlines and hotels, allowing members to earn miles or points with these partners instead of rental credits1
. Additionally, loyalty program members often enjoy perks like skipping the counter, faster vehicle pick-up, and priority customer service, which can save valuable time for business travelers2
.5 sources
How to Choose a Car Rental Company
itilite.com
When evaluating rental car companies at airports, several key criteria should be considered:
- Price: This includes base rental rates, additional fees, and potential hidden costs.1
- Vehicle availability: Ensuring the company has the required vehicle types for the specified rental period.2
- Insurance options: Examining the types and coverage of insurance offered.2
- Customer service: Assessing the quality of customer support and responsiveness.3
- Convenience: Factors like shuttle services, ease of reservations, and pick-up/drop-off processes.1
- Loyalty programs: Evaluating rewards and benefits for frequent renters.1
- Cancellation policies: Understanding the flexibility and terms for changes or cancellations.3
- Fleet quality and variety: Assessing the age, condition, and range of vehicles available.3
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Smart Car Rental Booking Tips
dollar.com
Here are practical tips for booking rental cars at airports to help you secure the best deals:
- Book in advance to lock in lower rates and ensure vehicle availability12
- Use comparison websites like Kayak, Priceline, and Cheapcarrental.com to compare prices across multiple rental agencies3
- Check directly with rental company websites for exclusive "Pay Now" discounts3
- Leverage credit card benefits, which may include rental insurance coverage and rewards points34
- Consider off-airport locations, which can be up to 18.4% cheaper on average3
- Look for promotional codes and coupons from rental partners or membership organizations4
- Sign up for rental company loyalty programs to access member-only rates and perks4
- Be flexible with pick-up and drop-off times, as prices can vary throughout the day2
- For longer rentals, compare weekly rates which may be cheaper than daily rates4
- Monitor prices even after booking, as you may be able to cancel and rebook at a lower rate3
4 sources
Alternative Rental Options
businessinsider.com
Peer-to-peer car sharing platforms like Turo and Getaround offer alternative rental options to traditional companies. These services allow private vehicle owners to rent out their cars, often at competitive rates compared to traditional rentals
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. Turo, valued at $1.2 billion in 2019, earned $746.59 million in 2022, up 59% from the previous year3
. Pros of peer-to-peer rentals include a wider variety of vehicle options, potentially lower costs, and more flexible pickup locations. However, cons may include less standardized vehicle quality and potential communication issues with individual owners. Insurance coverage can vary, so renters should carefully review policies1
. On-demand car sharing services like Zipcar maintain their own fleets parked throughout cities, offering real-time bookings via mobile apps3
. These services often include fuel and insurance in their pricing, providing a convenient option for short-term rentals. However, availability may be limited in some areas compared to traditional rental agencies.5 sources
Closing Thoughts on the Top 10 Airport Car Rental Companies
viewfromthewing.com
When navigating airport car rentals, savvy travelers must consider various factors to secure the best deal. While cost remains a primary concern, look beyond the base price and factor in additional expenses such as shuttle services, insurance, and hidden fees. Major providers like Hertz offer competitive rates in many markets, but smaller companies may provide better value in certain locations. Leveraging credit card benefits can significantly reduce costs and provide added protection. For the best results, use comparison tools and book in advance, but remain flexible as deals can change rapidly. Remember that convenience features like efficient shuttles and streamlined reservation processes via phone or app can greatly enhance your rental experience. Ultimately, developing a sound financial plan for your car rental needs, whether for business or leisure, will help you make informed decisions and potentially save money across major markets.
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