Features of Car Rental Agencies

Car rental agencies are busier than ever both domestically and internationally. Humans are travelling more than ever before. Many have traveled overseas-a feat that was not an affordable option just 10-15 years ago. Across the United States and around the world, consumers have never had so many options. This article explains the various features and services offered by car rental agencies. The objective of the article is to provide information that will help consumers understand car rental agencies and make an informed choice when selecting a rental agency.

There are numerous car rental agencies around the world. To list them all here would be an impossible task. A quick search on the Internet will bring up the names of the most popular and well-known. The computer age has also brought about travel websites for companies like Orbitz and Travelocity which contract with car rental agencies to help consumers purchase a travel package that includes rental car reservation. This makes it convenient for travelers to make hotel, flight, train, or cruise reservations and rental reservations at the same time and often at a discounted rate.

Advantages of Car Rental Agencies

Large car rental chains have many advantages. They offer a wide selection of vehicle makes and models. In vacation spots, some car rental agencies even specialize in sports cars. Rental cars have available features such as navigation systems and satellite radio. Another advantage of car rental agencies is that they often have on-site offices at airports or offer shuttle service from airports to nearby rental offices.

Because the car rental industry is competitive, car rental agencies offer incentives to attract consumers. Incentives may include everything from discounted rates for repeat customers, emailed notification of specials to registered members, discounts for reservations made well in advance of the date of travel, and weekend rates of up to 50% off. Car rental discount codes are also offered by many car rental agencies and travel cites to allow the consumer to find the best deal. These codes act as coupons and can be used under specific conditions.

Most of the car rental agencies offer similar incentives so one is not necessarily better than another. All attempt to make car rental convenient for the consumer. All offer insurance and roadside assistance. The largest also offer memberships and give members advantages such as discounted rates and advance notification of specials. The larger chains also offer discounts to state and government employees, large corporations and associations, and military personnel.