Despite on-going consolidation in the car rental industry, pundits suggest that consumers may not ge

Airfares and hotel rates rose last year, according to published reports. So, it s with some consolation that prices for rental cars actually decreased on average, and have for the most part remained about the same throughout 2013.
Chatsworth, GA -- ( SBWIRE ) -- 11/14/2013 -- Late last year, the average price of a car booked was about $27 per day, down 3 percent compared to the same period a year before. And while prices for rentals mansfield travel singapore during the upcoming holiday season may go higher—roughly $40 a day—that's still 6 percent lower than a year earlier.
Despite on-going consolidation in the car rental industry, pundits suggest that consumers may not get hit with the higher prices that often accompany these deals. The trade publication Auto Rental News recently predicted "a ground war on rates" throughout 2013 as the major car rental companies continue to compete with independent brands, especially for airport rentals.
One factor that benefits travelers in this equation: mansfield travel singapore the industry's lack of change fees or cancellation penalties, which means customers are free to look for a better deal right up until they get behind the wheel. Some airports have made it even easier to be fickle, by locating all their car rental companies at one facility that's linked to the airport by the same shuttle bus or train, a growing trend that Miami and Seattle have recently embraced.
- Recheck the rate: Booking early and often is a good mantra to follow, particularly if the car is needed during a peak travel time. Rental car companies will typically set the price high and those prices will almost always drop. The best way to game the system is to book as early as possible and recheck the rate.
- Look beyond car price: According to the 2012 J. D. Power and Associates rental car satisfaction study, about 4 in 10 leisure travelers choose a rental car company based on price, but there are other factors like customer service and fees that are worth considering. The study ranked Enterprise highest in terms of overall customer satisfaction with processes like reservation, pickup and return, as well as price, followed by National and Alamo [both brands are owned by Enterprise, so go figure], then Hertz, Avis and Budget.
One more thing … if travelers expect to share the driving on their trip this holiday season, some suggest investigating in additional driver fees, which some companies like Avis, Budget and Enterprise waive for a spouse or domestic partner.