Expensive car hire

Question

Looking to hire a car for june 26. any recommendations for cheaper car hire or any recommendations that might save me some money

Answer

Car rental in Alaska, especially during peak summer months like June, can be significantly more expensive than in other parts of the U.S. due to high demand and limited vehicle availability. Planning ahead and using a few cost-saving strategies can help reduce the overall rental cost.

Here are some strategies and recommendations to save money on car hire in Alaska:

Book early: Prices rise quickly as summer approaches. Reserving your car as far in advance as possible will usually yield the best rates and availability.
Compare multiple providers: Check not only major chains like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Alamo, but also local companies such as Alaska Auto Rental, Seward Rental Cars, or local branches of smaller regional companies, which sometimes offer lower rates.
Use aggregator websites: Sites like Kayak, Expedia, and Rentalcars.com allow you to compare prices across multiple companies and sometimes offer exclusive discounts or free cancellation options.
Consider vehicle size: Economy or compact cars are cheaper than SUVs or larger vehicles. However, if you plan on driving long distances or on rougher roads, a compact SUV may be necessary, so weigh comfort versus cost.
Check for discounts: Many companies provide discounts for AAA members, AARP members, military personnel, or through certain credit cards. Also, some online coupon sites may have additional savings codes.
Flexible pickup/drop-off locations: Renting from airport locations can be more expensive due to fees. Consider city or downtown offices if available, but weigh this against convenience and time.
Avoid unnecessary extras: Additional insurance, GPS, and roadside assistance can increase cost. Check if your personal car insurance or credit card covers rentals in Alaska, which may allow you to decline the rental company’s coverage.

Additional tips to keep costs down:

Consider renting for the exact number of days you need to avoid extra daily charges.
Check fuel policies; full-to-full is generally more economical than pre-purchase options.
Book directly with the rental company if they match the aggregator price to avoid extra fees.

In summary, early booking, comparing multiple rental companies (including local providers), checking for discounts, and being mindful of vehicle size and optional extras are the best ways to reduce car hire costs in Alaska in late June.

Expensive car hire

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