National Car Rental question

[EACarlson]

As member of their program I can choose from the Emerald Aisle if I book a Mid-size. Does that also work if I book a Standard size? The standard size is $50 less for my trip than a mid size, but I'd like the opportunity to choose my vehicle if possible.

 

[NotUrsula]

Yes.

 

[Ralph&Pam]

As member of their program I can choose from the Emerald Aisle if I book a Mid-size. Does that also work if I book a Standard size? The standard size is $50 less for my trip than a mid size, but I'd like the opportunity to choose my vehicle if possible.

The reservation for a Standard size would be Emerald Club Reserve rather than Emerald Aisle. You should be able to go to the appropriate aisle and select your rental car. If there is no actual National Standard aisle at MCO (I know that corporate partner Alamo has no Standard aisle), you would select from the Full Size aisle instead. I know that when I’ve rented an SUV with Emerald Club Reserve, I selected from the SUV aisle bypassing the counter, so I assume the same approach for Emerald Club Reserve Standard.

 

[EACarlson]

Thank you, next stupid question. I guess I haven't paid for a National rental with this card and have to have it verified. Is there a desk in the garage to have that done or do I have to stand in line at the counter?

 

[Ralph&Pam]

Thank you, next stupid question. I guess I haven't paid for a National rental with this card and have to have it verified. Is there a desk in the garage to have that done or do I have to stand in line at the counter?

They always verify my card at the gate as I check out the car. I’ve never been to the counter at MCO, MIA, or TPA for either National or Alamo, since I aiways use Emerald-level service with National or skip the counter with Alamo.

 

[bumbershoot]

I've never gone to the counter for National, even the first time. They can do it at the exit.

 

[NotUrsula]

The reservation for a Standard size would be Emerald Club Reserve rather than Emerald Aisle. You should be able to go to the appropriate aisle and select your rental car. If there is no actual National Standard aisle at MCO (I know that corporate partner Alamo has no Standard aisle), you would select from the Full Size aisle instead. I know that when I’ve rented an SUV with Emerald Club Reserve, I selected from the SUV aisle bypassing the counter, so I assume the same approach for Emerald Club Reserve Standard.

That's why I said yes -- there is no "Standard" aisle at MCO, so a standard reservation sends you to the Emerald Aisle. (Most of what is on the EA at MCO is a full-size sedan or mid-sized SUV, IME. Two weeks ago we snagged a Mini Countryman, which was a lot of fun to drive, but INCREDIBLY hot to get into after being parked in the sun.)

 

[Pooh93]

We are going to pick up a car from National at Miami Airport after our cruise in November. Is there anything special I should know as far as location or check out as a first time renter from them?