"Vacation Carpool" Part 2--Renting a Van

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

12 May 2006 08:12 AM

This is a follow up to my previous blog: "A 'Vacation Carpool'... Or How I Saved Our Family's Summer Road Trip." In it, I suggested carpooling with another family to save money on your summer road trip. In order to implement the concept, it is critical to secure a vehicle large enough to accommodate multiple families. I suggested renting a van. If you decide to go this route the issue of money will likely come up. Besides the rental fee itself here is a list of other possible charges you should consider before deciding to rent:

Gasoline Charges If you think the price of regular unleaded gas is high, consider the price you will pay if you return your rental with an empty tank. Most rental car companies will charge you a high premium for returning a vehicle without filling it up. Save money--fill up the vehicle before you return it.

Mileage I've made the mistake of renting vehicles without first inquiring about the company's mileage policy. In one instance I drove the car almost 1,000 miles before realizing I was limited to 1,200 (and I still had to drive back home). Most major rental car companies allow for unlimited mileage, but it's a good idea to check their policy before you reserve a car. Many smaller companies charge about 20 to 25 cents a mile, after 100-200 free miles per day.

Taxes and Airport Surcharges Sales tax and airport charges vary between states. These are additional expenses that will increase your bill. Before making car reservations at an airport facility, check "off airport" rental locations (like Enterprise Rent-A-Car) which often have lower surcharges.

Varying Rates Rental car rates vary from company to company and from city to city, and sometimes even within the same city. Make sure to shop around for the best deal. Also, inquire about special rates, even if you aren't a member of AAA, the friends you are carpooling with may be. Have them make the reservation so that you can all benefit from their discount.

Extras There may also be additional charges for things you had not considered, like young drivers and additional drivers. These "extras" could cost you $5 to $25 per day. CD players, roof racks, and other extras will also add to your bill.

If you feel the cost of renting is too steep, remember this: you will be splitting the cost of not only the rental vehicle, but the cost of gas. What's more, neither family will be putting "vacation miles" on their vehicles.

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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