How far in advance to book a rental car?

[Callahanjen]

I hope this isn't a silly question but I've looked through the previous posts and haven't found an answer. Anyhow, we are going in November 2005. Is it too early to book a rental car now or should I keep my eyes open for better rates? I'll need a mini-van so I don't know if these run out quicker???
Thanks!!

 

[laudan14]

Been looking for this answer too. We are going the end of May and have started pricing cars. Better to book now or later?

 

[LIGrumpyGirl]

I don't have a lot of experience in this (last year was my first trip in 5 yrs)but I do have 3 trips planned in the next 6 months so I have been looking at prices a lot. I find it is better to reserve a car and keep searching for prices. You can always cancel the first one but at least you have the car you want. Look at all the companies and their codes. Using National has already saved me $70 for next month when I had Budget booked.

 

[Bob P]

I agree with LI GrumpyGirl.

Shop around now online, get the best price you can, and book it. Then keep checking back with all the car rental companies every week or so and every time you see a better rate, cancel the first reservation and re-book. If it is with the same company they will have no problem honoring the lower rate.

We have done this many times, in Orlando and many other cities. You can cancel and re-book as many times as you want. Car rental companies do not charge you until you pick up the car, so there is no downside.

Hope this helps!

Bob

 

[CarolMN]

Book now, keep checking and cancel later if you find a better rate. National often has its best rates for minivans quite a long time in advance. Be sure to check Dollar - we've usually gottne the best rate there, using a code. Check either MouseSavers or www. rentalcodes.com for available codes.

Best wishes-

 

[crazywig]

i just booked a car today for sept. i always book ahead and then keep cancelling/rebooking until i get the best price i can.

today i got: $118 total (including taxes) for 8 days (sept 23-oct1) national EA, priceless code and entertainment coupon.

probably won't do much better than that! we also need a minivan and i will keep checking since they are still sky high right now.

 

[MelindaKiah]

we're going to the Daytona 500 next February and I already have my car booked. I'm worried the rates will skyrocket once the rental companies realize the dates it's on, so figured better to be safe than sorry.