Alamo Vs. National, why such a difference?

[disfanRN]

Just got done reserving a car for our end of sept-Oct. trip. What I don't understand is why is National $60 higher when it is the same car same company? I would rather use national because of the Emerald Aisle and the chance for an upgrade. Does Alamo do anything like Emerald Aisle? I got a good deal on the rental, it is for 14 days.

 

[brianm27]

I have found the opposite to be true. However, not without a little work.

I try to use some of the National discount codes from Mousavers and National e-coupons. Last night I made an 8 day reservation on National. Without logging in, the rate was $280 intermediate car. Logged in, went down to $268 and Aisle Service. Changed discount code - $208. Added e-coupon from National specials to go - $186.

 

[szymon]

Alamo caters to "leisure" travelers while National focuses on business rentals. That is why National is usually higher.

Szymon

 

[disneyldwjr]

It is really a lot of fun to play the rate game with those two.
At one point prior to your rental National will be higher
Then Alamo will be higher.
National tends to drop about 3 weeks out from your trip.
Alamo never has any steady pattern.
Just keep watching the rates.
And, never try to modify a rate, that usually never works to your advantage.
Keep checking by running a new reservation. If you don't like the rate you don't need to book it, however, if you do like the rate, book it and then cancel the other one.

 

[1000th happy haunt]

If you're not using any coupons, you can check-in with Alamo on their website prior to your trip. When you arrive you just pick your car and head to the booth. I've done it before.

But this is only available if you don't have any coupons (including e-coupons).

If you sign up for Alamo's QS service, you can use the booth in the garage instead of the one in the airport.

*edit* here are the requirements for Alamo's on-line check-in.

To qualify for Online Check-In, you must:

Meet minimum rental age requirements.
Have a clean driving record.
Have a valid U.S. or Canadian driver's license.
Provide a valid major credit card.


Alamo does not accept debit cards at time of rental. Although a debit card may be accepted online, you will not be able to process your transaction at time of rental.
Not available for some specialty class vehicles.
The following credit cards may be used to complete your Online Check-Insm transaction:
U.S. issued credit cards: Mastercard, VISA, American Express, Discover
Canada issued credit cards: American Express, Mastercard, VISA


Online Check-In is not available with reservations that contain the following:
Reservation is more than 30 days in duration.
Reservation is "On Request".
Additional equipment such as child seat/toddler seat/infant seat or ski racks, etc. Rentals requiring additional
equipment must go to the rental counter.
Coupon (including ecoupons) used with reservation.
Voucher used with reservation.
Applicant Business Account Number used with reservation.
Central Bill Number used with reservation.

 

[Jennyvelaz]

I just recvd a cheaper rate with Alamo than Natl at least $40. I prefer Natl, with the EI and everything. This could be a first time. Are the cars the same? Is it the same check-out as Natl? Should I even quibble over $40 given my very good hx with Natl?

 

[disneyldwjr]

I just recvd a cheaper rate with Alamo than Natl at least $40. I prefer Natl, with the EI and everything. This could be a first time. Are the cars the same? Is it the same check-out as Natl? Should I even quibble over $40 given my very good hx with Natl?

Same cars, the aisles are marked.
You will have to do the "counter check in thing". They charge you upfront and you wil exit the same way you always have with National.
Don't quibble, 40.00 is 40.00 and a nice savings.

 

[beattyfamily]

Alamo caters to "leisure" travelers while National focuses on business rentals. That is why National is usually higher.

Szymon

That is the main reason.