Car Rental Upgrade

Many travelers cash in frequent flyer miles or priority points to get a car rental upgrade. Frequent users also get certificates directly from the company via email or a special booking code.

However, let's look at some ways that you can get perhaps a free car rental upgrade.

The first thing to do is pick up the telephone to book your car. Use the telephone and not the internet.

Reserve the most popular model for that location.

Of course, the representative will ask you for your pick up time. You, in turn, ask about that location's busiest time. Then, choose a time, following their busy time to pick up your car.

The idea of the above is that you probably will receive a free upgrade, if there are no available cars of the model you booked.

Trying the above tip may not always succeed, but it is always worth a try. You have nothing to lose. The above tip probably works best at non-airport locations.

If you must rent at an airport, consider the times of operation for the car rental company. You may want to try to pick up your car very early in the morning, before other renters return their cars.

Another tip is to keep in mind the times for discounted weekend rates.

Many weekend discount rates start at twelve noon on Thursdays. If you pick up your car late in the afternoon, they may have sold out the popular model. In which case, you may get a free upgrade.

A final tip is to simply try the direct approach!

Ask the representative if an upgrade is available. Who knows? The clerk may have authorization to give upgrades at his/her discretion.

If no upgrades are available, ask him/her to make a note in your record.

When you arrive to pick up your car, remind the clerk of the notation. If a car rental upgrade is available, you should be able to get it at no extra cost.

This seems to work best when you book your car in advance, but it will not hurt to try it at any time.

For some additional information, check out Best Car Rental Tips. Find out how to get car rental discount codes and information on policies."

Also, see...

Upgrades
Dressing well may help you.

Airlines
Wait to board your flight.

Hotels
For a weekend or holiday trip, book in the business district.

Cruises
Cruise during off-peak times, and of course read this website.