You’re probably familiar with Hotels.com and the discounts you can find on hotel rooms (Remember those Captain Obvious commercials?), but did you know that Hotels.com also offers discounts on car rentals? Rental cars have had more limited availability and prices have increased significantly over the past five years, so check out Hotels.com car rentals when you’re comparison shopping for your next trip.
Be sure to browse the Groupons Coupons Hotels.com coupons page before booking to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Ways to Save With Hotels.com Rental Cars
Make sure you get the biggest bang for your buck when you book a Hotels.com car rental with these saving tips.
Hotels.com Mystery Cars
If you’re flexible on the type of vehicle you’re driving—Hotels.com’s Mystery Cars can save you a pretty penny. With these deals you will know which car rental brand you’re booking, but the type of car is not revealed until pickup. Mystery Car deals are the lowest prices you’ll find on Hotels.com car rentals. See below for an example of what a Mystery Deal looks like:
Pay Now and Save
Some Hotels.com rental cars will give you the option to book now and pay at the pickup counter, while others will give you the option to pay now and save. Paying when you book will get you a better discount (most are between 8% and 25% off). If you choose the pay now option, you can pay using a Hotels.com gift card. If you want to pay later, you’ll need to pay via credit/debit card at the pickup counter. Some reservations may also allow for payment in installments—if it’s available, you’ll see the option while booking.
What to Know About Hotels.com Rental Cars
Booking a rental car through a third party isn’t all that different from going through the rental car company itself—except sometimes it can help you can save some money. But there are a few important things to note. Here’s some good to know info:
Plan on Leaving a Deposit
When picking up your rental car, you will likely be required to leave a deposit (this will depend on the policy of the car rental company, but it’s pretty common). The amount will vary based on the rental company and the car. The deposit covers any potential damages (not covered by insurance), toll fees, and fuel. When you pick up your rental car, it will have a full tank of gas. If you don’t return it with a full tank of gas, you’ll be charged. Usually, car rental agencies charge significantly higher rates than you’ll find at the pump, so be sure to swing by a gas station before returning your rental to avoid this charge.
Insurance Coverage is Optional and Costs Extra
A Hotels.com car rental booking does not include insurance coverage, but it is available for an additional cost. It’s optional, but if you chose to forgo coverage you will be liable for the full value of the car in the case of theft or damage. Insurance coverage can be purchased when you book online (you’ll be prompted to choose or opt out during checkout) or at the rental desk during pickup.
Add a GPS, Car Seat, or Rack to Your Rental
Get everything you need in your rental car: add on GPS, a car seat, or a ski rack to your reservation for an additional charge. You can add these extras on during checkout and they’ll be waiting when you pick up the car.
Hotels.com Cancellation Policy
Hotels.com rental cars (and hotels) have a pretty flexible cancellation policy—most reservations can be cancelled. When searching for a rental car on Hotels.com, look for the Free Cancellation checkmark before you book. Any reservation with the Free Cancellation checkmark allows you to get a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours before your reservation. If you cancel within 24 hours of your reservation, you will receive a full refund minus $59. (If your booking is less than $59, you will not receive a refund.) Find the full policy here.
