reservaton with National, am I good to go?

[3kidz4dis]

I am not leaving until May but have my car reservation from National. I am hearing a lot about when you get there to pick up your car it was not a reservation at all. We have 5 people and can't afford to downsize. Has anyone run into that with National or is my on line reservation valid as it is printed? Thanks!

 

[Alexander]

We ALWAYS book with National and have been very happy with their service. The reservation you have printed is your rate and car class. If they don't have your car class available, they will upgrade you at no charge. We were upgraded from a full size to a convertible last April.

The only thing you want to be very careful with is the insurance pitch. They may (some employees do, others don't) try to get you to add insurance. If you don't want any insurance make sure they know that. I got caught by replying "yes" when the man said, "so you just want the basic coverage then?" Well basic coverage is not included in the rental price and added $100 to my overall rental price.

You will have to initial different parts of your agreement. Take the time to read what you are signing. Sometimes they try to add pre-paid gasoline on as well. Everyone finally lands in Orlando, vacation is about to begin, your excited, tired from traveling, and want to get to your hotel. Don't rush through your signing process! Take the time to know exactly what you are paying for.

Don't be nervous or worried, I have always loved National. In fact we booked with Budget for this April (much lower rates) and I am very nervous we are not with National!

 

[lovingthemouse]

Better yet, avoid the counter service and sign up for the Emerald Aisle service, where you can select, to some degree, your own car. We have usually signed up for the Intermediate size car when our kids did not join us, and often have gotten to select a mini-van or SUV when no intermediates were available on the lot.
Go to the Mousesavers board, look for car rentals and it will direct you to a free sign-up for the Emerald Aisle. Trust me, when you have kids along, this is the easiest way to go. Hope this helps. Caroline