Alamo/Payment and Bypassing counter?

[pbharris4]

I'm planning on using Alamo (only because DH wants me to..I'm kind of leary after reading a lot about them on here.). What I'd like to do is reserve now using the Costco code and a coupon # and then want to bypass the counter. Not a fan of lines or sales pitches, etc. We'll have a 3 yo with us who doesn't sit still so convenience is HUGE thing for us. Can I pay on line with the Costco code and coupon, check in ahead of time and then bypass the counter, pick out the car and do whatever else? I have only rented a car once or twice and that was 8 years ago! Thanks!!

 

[rie'smom]

I used a code Walmart + prepay and I can't bypass the counter. However,if you try to use online check-in it will take you to a site that allows you to fill in information which makes check-in easier @ the counter. By the way, I use Alamo often and have never experienced any problems.

 

[pbharris4]

Thank you! Would I be able to do this....Use the Costco code and then do an online check in (to bypass the counter) then do I pay when I do the online check in or when I pick up the car? Also, if I print a coupon, can I give it to the guy in the booth?

 

[rie'smom]

If you're not doing prepay,bring your coupon to the counter. I would try to use the costco and then online check-in. It can't hurt to try.
Last year we were using "miles" from AE & couldn't bypass the counter. We can't this year either with the discount code. Maybe Alamo just doesn't allow bypassing the counter with a code or coupon? Sorry that i can't be more helpful.

 

[pbharris4]

On Alamo's website in the online check in page it says near the bottom that you can't use online check in if you use coupons or ecoupons). When you get in the car..do you go to a person and give them your info and credit card? Maybe I can give him a coupon (or try to). I REALLY want to avoid that counter )

 

[rie'smom]

If you can't use online check-in,then you won't be able to bypass the counter. It really isn't that bad. Join the Alamo Quick Silver club and you'll have a separate line-it's usually much less crowded and it's free to join!

 

[pbharris4]

I'll check it out, thanks!

 

[pbharris4]

DH just called Alamo and they said if we used the Costco or Bjs code we could bypass the counter as long as we did not use a coupon, too. If I use a coupon it will be $179 and change. If I just use the Costco code, it'll be $197ish and I can skip the counter. If I were to do Prepay AND skip the counter it will be $226. So I think I will opt for the $197 one. I get the Costco discount and can do online check in and skip the counter. It's worth it for me..plus I have a birthday ADR for my DD at 1900 PF that I must get to by 5:30pm. Thanks for your help!