With its stunning Alpine landscapes, picturesque villages and vibrant cities, Austria is a dream destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and cultural richness. Renting a car makes it easy to explore this enchanting country at your own pace. However, finding the most cost-effective options can sometimes be a challenge. Never fear! In this comprehensive guide, we reveal the secrets to securing the cheapest car rental in Austria, complete with examples from reputable brands linked to their respective websites.
1. Plan ahead to save: Booking your rental car in advance is key to securing the best deals. Planning ahead gives you access to early bird discounts and a wider selection of vehicles.
• Example: Europcar offers competitive rates and early bird discounts on its website.
2. Compare prices from multiple brands: Don’t settle for the first car rental company you come across. Take the time to compare prices from different brands to ensure you get the best value for your money.
• Example: Use platforms like Rentalcars.com or Kayak to compare prices from different car rental companies like Hertz, Sixt and Avis.
3. Consider off-airport locations: Renting from off-airport locations can often result in lower rental prices due to lower overhead costs. Plus, you can avoid additional airport fees.
• Example: Budget Car Rental offers off-airport locations across Austria, providing budget-friendly options for travelers.
4. Opt for economy or compact cars: Opting for a smaller, fuel-efficient car can save you money on both rental fees and fuel costs. Plus, small cars are often cheaper to rent.
• Example: Enterprise offers a range of economy and compact car options at competitive prices.
5. Look for special offers and promotions: Keep an eye out for special offers, promotions and discount codes offered by rental companies. These can result in significant savings on your rental.
• Example: Thrifty Car Rental often offers special offers and discount codes on its website.
6. Look for inclusive insurance packages: Some rental companies offer inclusive insurance packages that cover collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection, saving you money on additional insurance fees.
• Example: Alamo offers comprehensive insurance packages for added peace of mind during your rental period.
7. Take advantage of loyalty programs: If you rent frequently, consider participating in loyalty programs offered by rental companies. These programs often include perks like discounts, upgrades and free rental days.
• Example: National Car Rental offers the Emerald Club loyalty program, which offers members benefits like expedited service and reward points.
8. Avoid one-way rental fees: If possible, return your rental car to the same location to avoid one-way rental fees, which can significantly increase your rental costs.
• Example: Dollar Rent A Car offers flexible rental options with no one-way fees for certain routes.
9. Book through online travel agents for additional savings: Online travel agents often offer discounted rates and exclusive deals on car rentals, so it’s worth exploring these platforms for additional savings.
• Example: Expedia and Hotwire often offer discounted car rental rates in Austria.
10. Read the reviews for peace of mind: Before booking your rental car, take the time to read reviews from other travelers to ensure you’re choosing a reputable car rental company with excellent customer service.
• Example: Sites like Tripadvisor and Trustpilot offer valuable insights from past customers to help you make an informed decision.
Exploring Austria by car is a fantastic way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes and charming cities. By following the tips in this guide and utilizing the resources of reputable car rental companies, you can secure the most affordable car rental options in Austria without sacrificing quality or comfort. Whether you’re planning a scenic road trip through the Alps or a cultural tour of Vienna and Salzburg, you can be sure that affordable adventures await you on the roads of Austria. Enjoy your trip!
