What's Your Hotwire Experience With Car Rentals?

[cindala]

I know I have time to wait for rates to come down for next July 4th week, but when I checked on Hotwire, they had the best deal by far so far.
A minivan out of MCO 7 days all taxes $324. It could be with one of three partners they use; Avis, and Budget, both on site, or Hertz off site.
Every other agency I try to price out is anywhere from a $450-$700.

Have any of you used Hotwire and what was your experience? What's the best rate you've received for a minivan during a high demand time? Is that $324 a good deal?

Their rates for compact cars are $169 at MCO and $192 at TPA, if I had to get two cars. There should be 6 of us plus luggage, so I thought a minivan would do.

Any info/input appreciated!!!!

 

[cindala]

No one has used Hotwire for car rentals????? Anyone?

I did check Thrifty and their rate for the same time is $310. for a minivan. Better than Hotwire right now, but I'm guessing they could both go down in price.

Where's the best place to check car rental codes. Most codes out now only go until 12/31/2006.

 

[Rayman]

I used Hotwire back in March for my trip to WDW. It was just me travelling, so I didn't need anything fancy. I don't recall the price difference, but it was considerably cheaper with Hotwire than any other place I looked for a compact car. Having used them in the past for a hotel ressie, I decided to go with it. Ended up with a Pontiac Vibe from Hertz, which was good because I prefer Hertz. Only bad thing was I couldn't get points on my #1 Club account.

 

[BYC]

Put down your exact dates and pckup and drop off times, and maybe someone could find something cheaper for you.

 

[cindala]

Put down your exact dates and pckup and drop off times, and maybe someone could find something cheaper for you.

June 30-July 7 2007 Around 11am drop off/pick up times.

 

[tracys2cents]

I've always found a rate almost the same without going through hotwire so have never used them for cars. Too much can happen between now and then...and with hotwire you pay whether you show up and pick up the car or not. That's why they can offer deals....they make a lot of profit on cancellations and no-shows.