Can You Get a Military Discount When You Rent a Car?
In the United States, most major car rental companies offer small discounts to military members. Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, Thrifty, National and Sixt give active duty military members a discount. Budget and Dollar will only give you a discount if you belong to the Veterans Advantage program. If you are reserving a rental car online, search for the keywords "military discount" on the car rental company's website before you start the booking process.
If you are renting a car in another country, don't expect a military discount. For example, Sixt, a German company, only gives American active duty military members a discount in the US.
Search for Alternative Discounts
Sometimes you can save more by taking advantage of special deals arranged by organizations you belong to rather than using the military discount. If you are insured through USAA, head to their website and search for the keywords "rental car discount." You will be given a list of participating car rental companies and their USAA discount codes. Next, go to each car rental company's website and use the discount code when you search for a rental car. This process takes time, but it is the only way to determine which car rental company is offering the best prices for your particular trip.
Costco also offers good discounts on rental cars to its members. You will need to go to the Costco Travel area of the company's website and enter your Costco membership number before you can compare prices. Once you enter your trip details, Costco presents all the offers available from a variety of car rental companies in a grid so you can easily see which deal is best for you.
Consider Different Car Pickup Locations
Another way to save money, depending on where you plan to pick up your rental car, is to look at alternatives to picking your car up at an airport. Airports charge hefty facility fees, which car rental companies pass along to you. If it isn't too difficult for you to get to a local rental office or to a downtown location, renting from an office not associated with the airport could save you money.
Research, Research, Research
The best way to save money when renting a car is to check all your options. Look at prices, pickup locations and membership deals before you book your car. Oh, and remember to bring your own GPS and toll transponder with you. Car rental companies charge a daily fee if you use the devices already installed in the car.