Alamo or National?

[Iluvthemouse]

We always rent EA with National and bypass the counter.
I just happened to check out the rates with Alamo and they are $30 less for the week than National-apples to apples. Does Alamo have the same setup?

 

[Minnie]

If you sign up for the Quick Silver program and call Alamo and have it added to your reservation then you can go to the counter in the parking garage. Otherwise you have to wait in line like the other rental companies.

Personally, we had an awesome experience in July and had the same dilema as you for our Dec trip and we will be paying the extra and sticking with National.

 

[HappyLawyer]

aren't they the same company

 

[maiyasgram]

Alamo offers an online check in option. That allows you to bypass their counter, no waiting in line. Go straight to your car, it can't be much easier.

Cherie

 

[Babboo]

I am signed up for about 5 rental car companies programs and find they are all about the same overall. Once you have qualified for the super-duper program (i.e. Emerald Club via National) things change a bit more. Most have a counter bypass system.

I suggest you look at some of the other rentals. I just changed from Hertz to Thrifty - kept the same class of vehicle, same period, and saved almost $300. The biggest change was in base week price. Then came the $50/day versus Hertz's $67. YMMV One thing that surprised me was changing locations where the vehicle is picked up had a big impact on the cost as well.

Always shop around for travel costs - you're bound to find a better rate out there.

 

[rlduvall]

Alamo offers an online check in option. That allows you to bypass their counter, no waiting in line. Go straight to your car, it can't be much easier.

Cherie

At one time, you could not do online check-in if you were using any coupon to lower your rate. Something all dis'ers are famous for. Not sure if that is still the policy.

If you become a Quick Silver member, you can go to the outside booth - in the garage - to check in. All of your preferences have already been entered from your initial sign up. It only takes about 10 minutes. While I love Emerald Aisle/Reserve, last year I saved about $75. using Alamo and Quick Silver. It was well worth it. And a spouse can be an extra driver at no additional cost when using your QS.

A Quick Silver number cannot be added to an existing reservation. If the new rate is not as low as the old rate, call the 1-800 number and they will recreate the original reservation and add the Quick Silver number to that. I know . . . that's a hassle . . . but I don't make the rules, I just follow 'em.

 

[TiggerificTigger]

Not to steal the tread - but does anyone know how to change the credit card "listed" on Quick Silver? I just signed-up, but it said they use that card for the first time. I used my company card when doing it, but the first transaction will be personal. TIA!!