Renting a car this summer travel season? Get your motor running.But, before heading out on the highway, make sure you avoid the games car rental companies are playing to raise revenue from unsuspecting consumers. Yep, rental groups are getting creative with a slew of odd add-on fees and wacky rules in an apparent attempt to lift their profits.
The folks over at CNN serve up a list of six odd rules consumers should steer clear when shopping for a summer car rental:
1. The price game
Agents are charging exorbitant late fees, like $1,000 a day with one example in Dayton, Ohio, and are even raising rates if patrons return their rentals early. The remedy? Secure a rate online using a site like Priceline or CheapOair.
2. Age limits often apply
Under 25-years-old? You may have to shell out additional cash. Car rental companies often add a $20 a day or more surcharge to your bill. If you're younger than 21, it may be almost impossible to score an auto.
3. Additional drivers cost more
Plan to share the wheel with another driver? Buyer beware. If there's a second driver, car rental groups often charge additional fees running about $10 to $12 per day.
4. Child safety seats cost more
Even though safety seats for children is a requirement, some car rental companies are tagging on a surcharge for upgrading car seats for kids.
5. Car sizes redefined
Some sneaky car rental companies are changing the class of the vehicle--from compact to a mid-size auto-- in an attempt to raise rates for unsuspecting consumers.
6. Short trips penalized
Plan to drive under 75 miles in a rented car? You may be penalized. Rental companies are charging an automatic refueling service charge for those taking shorter trips.
Click here for the lowdown.
