Fellow business wanderer, buckle up, because we’re about to ascend into a cloud of insightful tips and advice around one of the often overlooked aspects of business travel: car rentals. Yes, air travel gets the limelight, hotels reap all the plush praise, and restaurants are usually the highlight of any travel itinerary. But, as business travelers, there’s something to be said about the power of four wheels.
The Age-Old Rule: Book Early
Peek at your calendar and notice an impending business trip in the offing? Don’t give that car rental a cold shoulder. Pro tip: book your car rental as soon as your travel dates are locked in. Save some serious cash and ensure you score a nifty ride. You’re a business traveler in your prime. You don’t need the stress of last-minute rentals as you juggle presentations, meetings, and power lunches.
Navigating the Treacherous World of Insurance
If insurance was a labyrinth, even the indomitable Indiana Jones would second guess. Collision damage waiver? Personal accident insurance? Liability insurance? Sounds like deciphering hieroglyphs, right? That’s why you should check with your car insurance provider and your credit card company before embarking on your journey. Some have partnerships with car rental companies, saving you from unnecessary coverage. Now that’s a lifesaver.
Stick with the Pack (or Loyalty Programs)
Here’s a secret whispered by seasoned business travelers but overlooked by rookies in the game. Sign up for the car rental company’s loyalty program. Contrary to popular belief, they’re not just for airlines and hotels. Perks can include express pick-up and drop-off, free rental days, and upgrades. It’s like first-class treatment on wheels. And who doesn’t fancy a promotion?
Save on Gas
Those cute car rental kiosk associates may offer you the “convenience” of prepaying for a tank of gas. However, unless you plan to use up that entire tank (and we’re not talking about running laps around the airport), it may be kinder to your wallet to say no and handle the fuel yourself.
Inspect Before You Jet
If only car rental companies admired their fleets as much as Narcissus admired his reflection. Upon pick-up, always inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Note every scratch and dent and double-check the interiors. Use your smartphone to snap some pictures as proof. When you return the vehicle, rest assured you won’t foot the bill for pre-existing conditions. That’s like spotting a dent in your business’s armor before anything can hit.
Don’t Fear the Compact
Who wouldn’t prefer a swanky SUV or a luxe sedan to impress clients? However, choosing a compact car can save you not only car rental charges but also gas costs. This counterintuitive tip can score you a free, unintended upgrade. Most rental locations run out of this less popular choice, leading you to get the roomier ride at no extra charge. Now, that’s business travel done right.
In the world of business travel, every element has to perform like a well-oiled machine for you to conquer your challenges. That includes your mode of transportation. By nailing your car rental strategy, you turn an often neglected aspect of your journey into a launching pad for success. So, perk up your corporate antennae, accelerators! These savvy business travel tips are sure to turbocharge your next trip. Safe driving!
