Car Rentals: Don't Get Taken for a Ride

May 19, 2008 — -- I'm going on a trip soon, and making the arrangements reminded me of some car rental strategies I should share with all of you, especially with Memorial Day and the summer season coming up.

First, call and check prices by phone. Then, go online and compare. You'll be amazed at the difference. I typically find it's cheaper to book online, because the travel industry is trying to encourage customers to spend money without ever speaking to a human.

Finally, when you get to your destination, walk into the rental office and ask about rates without saying you already have a reservation. Often, customers get a better deal on the spot. If not, or if all the cars are taken, then reveal that you already have a reservation.

And if you do end up getting a better deal in person, don't worry. Most rental car companies don't charge for no shows. (An exception is if you booked through a special service like Priceline where you paid in advance. The key is to know the terms of your deal.)

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The other way to save money is to learn the lingo and know how it applies to you.

A collision damage waiver, or CDW, is an optional charge allowed in some states. It is not technically collision insurance. It's a guarantee that the rental car company will pay for damage to the car you rent.

If you decline the waiver, you're accepting responsibility for any damage. That's fine if your personal car insurance policy covers rental cars or if you have good coverage through a credit card or motor club. But make sure you do, because if not, you could be liable for the full value of the car. I always accept all the rental company insurance when I rent a car in a foreign country, just to avoid potential headaches and hassles.

Personal accident insurance, or PAI, pays a death benefit and/or pays a portion of your medical bills if you're in an accident while driving the rental car. If you have a good life insurance policy and good health care coverage, you shouldn't need this.