While rental car companies have had a tough time during the pandemic, their loyalty programs can offer some great perks. Whether avoiding the counter and going directly to your car at central airport locations or complimentary elite status, membership is well worth the effort.
Avis Preferred is one of the best rental car loyalty programs. It’s free to join and offers credits for a free rental day and other benefits.
Convenient Online Booking
Car rental loyalty programs are a valuable tool for the traveler, providing perks and privileges that can elevate any trip. By understanding the intricacies of these programs and how to leverage them effectively, travelers can maximize their benefits and enjoy more rewarding experiences on the road.
Generally, car rental loyalty programs award points or rewards for every rental or dollar spent. These can be redeemed for travel benefits, including free rentals and upgrades. In addition, many programs offer tiered membership levels with increased rewards and benefits as you climb the ranks.
Additionally, some programs provide members with flexible travel plans. For example, elite members often can extend their rentals without incurring additional fees, making it easier to stay on schedule even during peak travel periods. Some loyalty programs also feature guaranteed availability – giving members peace of mind when planning for an important business meeting or special event.
Additionally, many car rental companies, like the car rentals from the Maui airport, offer online booking. This can simplify the reservation process, reduce the need to visit a counter, and provide more timely, efficient service. The convenience of online booking is a crucial benefit of car rental loyalty programs that can help drive greater consumer loyalty and boost brand value.
Elevated Status
Car rental loyalty programs can give you access to elite status, which can help speed things up at the counter. The status is usually based on the number of rentals you make in a calendar year or on a specific number of points earned.
Whether or not you qualify for elite status can be complicated. Compared to airlines and hotels, which automatically provide their top-tier members with many benefits, reaching the highest car rental company loyalty can take time and effort.
Even so, it is generally worth signing up for car rental loyalty programs that offer elite status because of the extra perks and convenience they can bring to your next rental. For example, Some offer a free loyalty program that provides an express service at the counter and lets you avoid additional options like prepaid fuel and GPS systems.
Another option offers three different elite status tiers. The lowest tier requires just one credit to earn, and it rewards you with free rental days when you make seven.
Skip the Counter
Many car rental loyalty programs offer elevated status that can save time at the counter, including access to a dedicated line, quicker checkout, and upgrades. Elite status may also allow members to check in online and bypass the counter entirely, allowing them to go straight to their car. This can be especially valuable during peak travel periods when cars are scarce and waiting in long lines is expected.
Some companies have complicated award systems that require a lot of points to redeem for free rentals. In these cases, free rentals are based on a combination of the rental cost and the number of travel days. Some also publish point redemption charts that could be clearer, further devaluing the value of loyalty points.
In contrast, other programs are streamlined and provide excellent value for the money. This program is free to join, and members can skip the counter at central airport locations using a mobile app that securely stores their driver’s license information and credit card details.
Many premium cards, including The Platinum Card(r) from American Express (terms apply; see rates & fees), come with upgraded status in several car rental loyalty programs when they enroll. This can distinguish between standing in a lengthy line and quickly grabbing a vehicle when traveling on business.
Avoid Upsells
Car rental loyalty programs provide many benefits that significantly elevate your travel experience and save you money. By understanding the intricacies of these programs, you can tap into their perks strategically to maximize value.
Most major car rental companies have free-to-join loyalty programs that allow you to skip the counter and go straight to your vehicle at most major airports. Just upload your driver’s license and credit card information online, agree to the company’s terms and conditions, and you’re ready. Many of these programs also partner with frequent flier programs, meaning you can earn miles on your rental or apply existing miles toward a future flight.
Additionally, many car rental loyalty programs offer complimentary upgrades. This is a great way to save on upgrade costs, especially during peak travel periods when cars are at a premium.
Lastly, many programs also feature guaranteed availability, which is a great benefit during peak travel times when cars are more scarce. This can eliminate the hassle of waiting at a counter and make your trip more enjoyable. However, it would help if you remembered that car rental companies can change their loyalty programs on short notice and that your benefits may differ from what you’re used to. So, stay up-to-date with the latest changes to ensure you’re getting the most out of your program.
