7 Tips for Cheap Car Hire in Vancouver: Save Big on Your Rental

Rental car prices can be unpredictable. Rates soar due to a shortage in supply and a surge in demand. While prices have decreased recently, renting a car still costs more than before the pandemic. Don’t worry; all hope isn’t lost. Here are some tips to help you find the cheapest car rentals.

Skip the Airport

Renting a car at the airport may seem convenient when you arrive in Vancouver, but that convenience comes with a higher price tag. Airport rentals are more expensive due to increased demand and additional fees like airport surcharges.

These surcharges are usually a fixed daily fee, labelled as a “Customer Facility Charge,” or sometimes a percentage of the total rental cost. In some cases, you may face both types of charges. While these fees can add just a few dollars, they can quickly add up to a significant amount throughout your trip.

You can choose a car rental in Vancouver with a drop-off location or one that offers parking near YVR. Auto Flow Car Rental allows you to pick up your rental car directly or have it delivered to the airport for an additional fee.

Choose Economy Cars

Economy cars tend to get booked quickly. However, according to Brett Graff, a family finance expert and author of The Home Economist, you can use this to your advantage.

“When renting a car, I always book the smallest, most budget-friendly vehicle available, knowing there’s a chance it won’t be available, and I’ll get upgraded,” Graff explains.

Just be sure not to go too small for your group, or you might end up squeezing five people and luggage into a tiny two-door coupe. 

Register a Single Driver Only

Many rental car agencies charge an extra fee for adding an additional driver. There are ways to avoid this fee. Some companies waive the additional driver charge for a spouse or domestic partner, as long as both of you have the same address on your driver’s licenses. Other companies offer free additional drivers for spouses, partners, and immediate family members if you’re enrolled in their membership program.

Use Your Own Insurance

If you own a car, your personal insurance likely covers you when renting one. Many credit cards also offer basic insurance coverage when you use the card to pay for your rental. This allows you to skip purchasing additional coverage and save around $30 per day. Some cards even provide more extensive coverage.

Skip the Extras

Rental agents offer extras like roadside assistance, satellite radio, and GPS navigation. While some may be useful, you can easily improvise and save money. Saying no to these extras keeps your rental costs down.

Compare Weekly, Weekday, And Weekend Car Rental Rates

There’s no clear pattern when it comes to the cheapest rental duration. Sometimes, renting just for the days you need the car is the most affordable option, while other times, renting for an entire week can save you money, even if you only need the car for a few days. Be sure to check both options before you book, but make sure the rental company won’t charge you for an early return.

Remember that business travellers rent cars during the week, meaning weekend rentals are less expensive than weekday rentals. If your trip allows some flexibility, adjust your schedule to include a weekend rental.

Plan Your Travel

Many rental car companies impose a daily mileage limit, and exceeding that limit results in additional charges. These fees can add up, especially if you’re planning a long road trip or know you’ll be driving a lot. It’s helpful to plan your route ahead of time and estimate how many miles or kilometres you’ll be driving each day.

If your trip involves extensive driving, consider choosing a rental company that offers unlimited mileage. While this option might be a bit more expensive, it can save you from paying extra for overages. Alternatively, you can check if the company allows you to upgrade to a higher mileage allowance for a reasonable fee.