Transportation can eat up a huge chunk of your travel budget—but it doesn’t have to.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer road trip, there are smart ways to save without sacrificing convenience or comfort.
Over the years, I’ve tested all kinds of car rental options—traditional companies, peer-to-peer apps, and everything in between. Below are four I keep coming back to, each with their own strengths, quirks, and best-use scenarios.
My Rental Car Strategy (in 30 Seconds)
I always start with AutoSlash to compare prices from traditional rental companies. Then I check Turo and Getaround to see if I can save even more or find a more convenient pickup location. It only takes a few extra minutes and has saved me hundreds of dollars over the years.
1. AutoSlash: Your Discount-Hunting Travel Buddy
If you’re renting from a traditional car rental company, this tool is a must. AutoSlash compares rental rates from top companies, automatically applies coupon codes, and tracks your reservation for price drops even after you book. That’s right—it’ll actually notify you when it finds a better deal!
Why I Love It:
- Finds the best rates across major companies
- Applies discount codes without you having to search
- Alerts you if the price drops so you can rebook and save
A Few Downsides:
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You’re still dealing with traditional rental companies and their policies
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Only includes participating brands, so not every deal shows up
2. Traditional Rental Car Companies: Familiar but Not Always Flexible
You know the big players: Hertz, Enterprise, Budget. They’re reliable, easy to find (especially at airports), and backed by customer service teams if something goes wrong. But that convenience often comes at a premium.
Pros:
- Lots of locations worldwide
- Dedicated customer support
Cons:
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Higher rates for airport pickups due to added fees
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Limited operating hours can be inconvenient
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Cars book up fast during peak seasons
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Don’t forget: they expect the gas tank to be refilled before you return the car—or they’ll charge (a lot) to do it for you
If you go this route, definitely book early—and keep an eye on AutoSlash for price drops.
3. Turo: The Airbnb of Rental Cars
Turo lets you rent directly from individual car owners, which means way more variety and (often) better prices. You can find everything from budget sedans to Teslas, and many hosts offer flexible pickup and drop-off times. It also lets you rate the car owner and vice versa.
During COVID, rental car prices were out of control and cars were very difficult to come by, so I turned to Turo. I found a mid-size sedan for just $35 a day—such a steal at the time. The owner met me curbside at the airport, handed over the keys, and off I went. Returning it was just as simple: park it in the designated spot and leave the key inside. The whole thing was easy, affordable, and way less stressful than dealing with a traditional rental counter.
What I Love:
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Unique selection, often at better prices
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Flexible pickup and return
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Great for off-airport pickups
Heads Up:
- Quality and policies vary by host – be sure to read the reviews
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Insurance can be a little murky, so double-check your coverage
4. Getaround: A Hands-Off, App-Based Alternative
Getaround is another peer-to-peer car-sharing app that’s similar to Turo but with a more automated vibe. You book through the app, unlock the car with your phone, follow a few instructions, and you’re off—no need to meet the owner in person.
While planning our trip to Washington State, I stumbled across Getaround and decided to give it a shot. It was our first time using the app, and honestly—it couldn’t have been easier. The car was clean, comfortable, and waiting exactly where the app said it would be. Check-in and return were quick and hassle-free, all handled right from my phone.
Why It’s Worth Checking Out:
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Instant booking and app-based access
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No owner meetup required
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Skip the rental desk altogether
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Cost is adjusted if you return the car earlier than you scheduled
A Few Watch-Outs:
- Cars are often parked in fixed spots, which may not be convenient
- Owner support and responsiveness depend on the owner
Conclusion
The best rental option depends on your trip. If I’m flying into a major airport and want the easiest experience, I usually start with AutoSlash. If prices seem high or I want more flexibility, I’ll check Turo and Getaround before making a decision.
Spending five extra minutes comparing options has saved me hundreds of dollars over the years, and it’s one of the easiest ways I know to reduce the cost of a trip without giving up convenience.