How often do rental car agencies change rates?

[BC]

I had seen a really good rate for a full size car at Avis last week, but did not book it yet. I went back in a couple of days ago and it was up $3.00. Well, I had planned to book it last night and now it is up $50.00!!! Can I take a chance on it going back down like airlines do, or is it probably not going to change now as my dates are just a couple of weeks away. I need one for 8 days, May 3-11.

 

[Rootskate]

I have cancelled and re-booked my reservation with Alamo about 3 or 4 times now. The rates seem to change all the time. I am now paying about $25.00 less than I had started out with. There is a pretty good chance your rate will go down again. Keep checking!

 

[OKW Lover]

Like airlines, car rental agencies changes prices almost continously. Book a car now and keep checking back for a better price.

 

[BC]

Do they charge your credit card before you actually pick up the car? I am assuming not or you would have alot of charges pending if you change your ressie alot. I assume you just go ahead and book and cancel over and over again, right?

 

[alecam]

Do they charge your credit card before you actually pick up the car? I am assuming not or you would have alot of charges pending if you change your ressie alot. I assume you just go ahead and book and cancel over and over again, right?

They do not charge you until you pick up your car. I also have rebooked about 6 times for my June vacation. My weekly rate dropped from $120 to $84 with coupons and codes (through National). Just keep re-booking and cancelling the old ones (in that order).

 

[leebee]

I've learned the hard way to GRAB a car ressie when you see a good one- you can always cancel if you won't be using it. Can't figure our when/why rates change, though. Yesterday at National, I booked 3 ressies for June..18-25 for $94, 15th-22nd for $104, and 18th-22nd for $102 (travel plans are not yet finalized). Checked back this morning and the are up to over $150 (all with Priceless code and BJ's coupon). Can't figure them out, but I'm glad I grabbed the ressie when I did!