Renting a car has become an essential aspect of travel for many people worldwide. With the growth of the car rental industry, there is an increasing demand for cost-effective and reliable options. In this blog post, we will explore some of the cheapest car rental companies in 2023, providing you with the information you need to decide about renting a vehicle for your next trip.
1. Hertz
Hertz, founded in 1918, has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing market demands. Despite filing for bankruptcy protection in 2020, Hertz has successfully restructured its business and is now offering some of the industry’s most competitive car rental rates. Hertz offers many vehicles, from compact cars to luxury sedans, trucks, and vans.
Key Features:
- Affordable rates
- Wide variety of vehicles
- Availability at most airports
- Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program, which offers exclusive benefits and discounts to members
2. Budget
As the name suggests, Budget focuses on providing affordable car rental options to customers. Established in 1958, Budget has developed a strong reputation for offering a range of vehicles at competitive prices. With locations in over 130 countries, Budget has become famous for travelers seeking a cost-effective car rental solution.
Key Features:
- Low prices and regular discounts
- Wide variety of vehicles, including eco-friendly options
- Budget Fastbreak program, which allows for quicker vehicle pickup and drop-off· Availability at many airports and cities
3. Enterprise
Founded in 1957, Enterprise has expanded its services to more than 85 countries and territories. Known for its excellent customer service and diverse fleet, Enterprise has become a favorite among travelers seeking affordable car rentals without sacrificing quality. They also have a strong presence in suburban and neighborhood locations, making them a convenient choice for local rentals.
Key Features:
- Competitive pricing
- Wide selection of vehicles, including luxury and exotic options
- Enterprise Plus loyalty program, which offers points and rewards for frequent renters· Neighborhood and airport locations available
4. Alamo
Alamo, founded in 1974, is another popular choice for cost-conscious travelers. With a focus on leisure travelers, Alamo offers low rates and a range of vehicles to suit various needs. They have locations in over 40 countries, making them a convenient choice for international travelers.
Key Features:
- Low rates, especially for leisure travelers
- Wide range of vehicles
- Alamo Insiders program, which provides members with exclusive discounts and offers· Presence in multiple countries and at popular tourist destinations
5. Thrifty
Established in 1958, Thrifty is a well-known brand for affordable car rentals. With locations in over 77 countries, they offer a wide selection of vehicles at competitive prices. Thrifty is a popular choice for those seeking a budget-friendly car rental experience.
Key Features:
- Competitive pricing
- Wide variety of vehicles
- Thrifty Blue Chip Rewards program, offering faster reservations and rewards for frequent renters· Availability at popular tourist destinations and airports
6. Dollar
Dollar Car Rental, founded in 1965, is another major player in the Budget car rental market. They cater to cost-conscious travelers and provide a variety of vehicles at low rates. With locations in over 53 countries, Dollar has become a popular choice for international travelers.
Key Features:
- Low prices
- Wide range of vehicles
- Dollar Express Rewards program, offering exclusive discounts and rewards for members· Convenient locations at airports and popular tourist destinations
7. Payless
Payless Car Rental, founded in 1971, focuses on providing low-cost car rentals.
Continue options for travelers. With more than 120 locations worldwide, Payless offers a range of vehicles at competitive prices. Although their presence is smaller than some other companies on this list, they remain a viable option for those seeking budget-friendly car rentals.
Key Features:
- Affordable rates
- Variety of vehicles, including luxury options
- Payless Perks Club, which offers exclusive discounts and promotions for members· Locations in popular tourist destinations and airports
8. Sixt
Sixt, a German-based car rental company founded in 1912, has a global presence in over 100 countries. Known for offering affordable rates and a diverse fleet of vehicles, Sixt has become a popular choice for travelers seeking a low-cost car rental without sacrificing quality.
Key Features:
- Competitive pricing
- Extensive range of vehicles, including luxury and sports cars
- Sixt Express loyalty program, which offers benefits and rewards for frequent renters· Convenient airport and city locations
9. Europcar
Europcar, founded in 1949, is a leading car rental company in Europe and has expanded its services to more than 140 countries. While their pricing may not always be the absolute lowest, they often offer promotions and discounts that make them a competitive choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Key Features:
- Affordable rates with regular promotions and discounts
- Wide variety of vehicles, including vans and trucks
- Europcar Privilege loyalty program, offering exclusive benefits and rewards for members· Locations in most European countries and major cities worldwide
10. Easirent
Easirent, a UK-based car rental company founded in 1999, has become a popular choice for low-cost car rentals. With a focus on providing affordable and reliable vehicles, Easirent has expanded to include locations in the United States and Ireland.
Key Features:
- Low-cost rental options
- Range of vehicles, including compact cars and vans
- EasiPoints loyalty program, which allows customers to earn points and redeem them for discounts on future rentals· Convenient locations at airports and popular tourist destinations
Where to Find the Best Car Rental Rates
Finding the best car rental rates can be daunting, as prices vary depending on various factors, such as location, time of year, vehicle type, and rental duration. However, there are several tips and strategies you can use to find the most competitive rates:
- Compare multiple websites: Use car rental comparison websites like Kayak, Expedia, or Rentalcars.com to compare prices from various rental companies. These websites aggregate rates from multiple providers, making it easy to find the best deal.
- Book early: Car rental rates tend to increase as the rental date approaches. Book your rental well in advance to secure the best rates, preferably a few months before your trip.
- Be flexible with your dates: If your travel dates are flexible, you can often find better deals by adjusting your rental period. Prices may vary depending on the day of the week or the month’s time. For example, weekend rates are typically higher than weekday rates, while prices may be lower during the off-peak season.
- Choose the right location: Airport locations usually have higher rates due to added fees and taxes. To save money, consider renting from an off-airport location. Just be sure to factor in the cost of transportation to and from the rental office.
- Consider smaller companies: While significant car rental companies often have competitive rates, more minor, local companies may offer better deals. Research local providers in your destination and compare their rates to the larger companies.
- Look for discounts and promotions: Car rental companies frequently offer discounts or coupon codes. Check their websites or sign up for newsletters to receive these offers. Also, don’t forget to check for discounts available through your credit card company, airline loyalty program, or other memberships (e.g., AAA, AARP).
- Choose the right vehicle: The type of vehicle you rent can significantly impact the cost. Opt for a smaller, more fuel-efficient car if you don’t require a large vehicle. However, book a car that suits your needs, as upgrading at the rental counter can be more expensive.
- Utilize loyalty programs: Most car rental companies offer loyalty programs that provide benefits such as discounts, free upgrades, or reward points. Join these programs and take advantage of the savings they offer.
- Book directly with the car rental company: Sometimes, booking directly with the car rental company can result in lower rates. Plus, this can give you more flexibility if you need to modify or cancel your reservation.
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons: To save money, decline optional extras such as GPS, additional insurance coverage (if your existing coverage or credit card benefits are sufficient), or prepaid fuel options. These can quickly increase the cost of your rental.
By following these strategies and staying proactive in your search, you can secure the best possible rate on a rental car for your next trip.
In 2023, travelers will have many car rental companies to choose from when seeking affordable options. Each company has unique benefits and features, but all aim to provide competitive pricing to cater to budget-conscious customers. Whether you’re planning a vacation or need a rental for business purposes, this list of the cheapest car rental companies in 2023 should help you decide and find the best deal to suit your needs. Always remember to compare prices, read reviews, and take advantage of loyalty programs to maximize savings and ensure a smooth car rental experience.
