Car rental newbie seeking some advicce

[roselark]

I have never rented a car before, so I am trying to get all the info I can as early as I can!

I am flying down to MCO on 11/28/14. I plan on renting a car, then driving to Cape Canaveral. I will be staying through Sunday, when I will be running the Space Coast Half Marathon. I plan on heading out that evening after the race festivities and driving to WDW. I will be staying for a few days before flying home. I am waiting for AP rates to come out for December before deciding where I will be staying, but it will likely be POP to keep costs down.

Any advice for someone who has never rented a car? Any recommendations on which company to go with (Alamo or National)? I want to drop the car off on Disney property...which is easiest, Dolphin or CCC? Do they have late drop off? Is there a "car rental primer" anywhere I can refer to? What is the best way to get a good deal?

 

[SandyinMonterey]

There are a lot of tips, advice and information on these boards about car rentals. Usually you can find one for the particular month you will be traveling. Mousesavers.com is also a good resource. Whatever company you decide on, join their "club". For example, National has the Emerald Isle. We used Avis for years. But went with National for our last WDW trip and was very pleased with the price and service. Can't beat that Emerald Isle.

 

[Lewisc]

See if you have adequate insurance via your personal auto policy and credit card. Most of us save $$$ by waiving the expensive waivers offered by the agencies.

Almost all of the extras are overpriced. Rent the car with a full tank and return it with a full tank. You'll never come out ahead with the pre-paid gas plans, no matter what the agent tells you.

Do you need an additional driver? Find an agency/discount program which includes it.

Are you a COSTCO member? They generally offer good rates.

Price your rental with a return to MCO and with a return to WDW. Sometimes you'll save money returning the car to MCO. You'll then use DME for transportation to your resort.

Price your rental for your entire stay. A weekly rate might not cost much (any) more then renting for 3 or 4 days. Sometimes the weekly rate will be less.

 

[boBQuincy]

Any recommendations on which company to go with (Alamo or National)? I want to drop the car off on Disney property...which is easiest, Dolphin or CCC? Do they have late drop off?

Alamo and National are the same company, National is more for the business traveler, Alamo is more for the tourists and is usually less $$$ (but not much). Drop off at Dolphin makes it easy to get transportation, a boat to the Studios and from there you can get anywhere. The National/Alamo desk at Dolphin is not 24 hours but you can leave the car with the valet before or after hours and they will give the keys to National/Alamo later.

National has the best TV commercials: "Meow business pro, meow!"