Renting a Car in Honolulu?
Will You Need A Rental Car in Hawaii?
Here’s a Q&A from a saved draft. This is a Travel Blog.
Sharing it now for #TravelTuesday!
Q: Is there a difference in reserving a rental car here or when we land in Honolulu? Any rental companies you’d recommend or avoid?
A: Internet before you arrive!
Check each Rental Car Company WEBSITE for best deal! They run 24 hour cycles for car rentals, so if possible arrange your pickup and drop off in 24 hour increments. You can also get a deal on week long rental if you’ll be there that long. Also, you’ll get better rates away from the airport rental office (you won’t pay airport fees), so if they have another location rent from them. (they might even offer delivery to your hotel and you can usually get a free shuttle from the airport)
NOTE: Each company’s rates and availability vary wildly depending on what events are happening, the day of the week, the weather, “hotel block” specials and many other factors, so reserve ahead of time VIA TELEPHONE (not the internet) if possible and always get a confirmation number and the name, employee number and direct phone number of the employee you booked the reservation with.
AAA offers discounts, join the rental car company “customer card” loyalty program before searching for rates (they always offer upgrades and discounts) and check with the hotel for a package deal/discount or free rental! You probably don’t need additional insurance coverage, but check with your own car insurance company and make sure you are covered when driving a rental car in the destination location! If you have travel insurance, that may also cover you. Check and see if the resort fee at the hotel covers parking too.
They also may try to sell you GPS and additional upgrades, add-on services or amenities with your basic rental. Buyer beware! Do you need that GPS or can you just use your smartphone? It’s a lot of fun to have a convertible or a jeep, but how much more will it cost and how much driving will you really be doing on Oahu? Remember to figure the cost of fuel into your budget and the higher gas prices in Hawaii!
NOTE: Once you’ve found the best deal for a rental car, check and see about package deals/vacation companies that will save you money with a bundled “air-hotel-rental car” package or consult a travel advisor for additional service and a price quote.
Plan ahead! Make your reservation well in advance and watch for any specials that might be offered after you reserve (they’ll usually allow you to change to the lowest rate). Be sure to plan your connection from the airport to the rental car company location, most offer free shuttles, or you can arrange other transport. It’s always best to do your research and make your arrangements and reservations prior to arrival.
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