Are you on the hunt for affordable insurance for your rental car?
While renting a car can be very convenient, it can also be costly, especially once you tack on the price of rental insurance. But, there are affordable rental car insurance options out there. You just need to know where to look.
Check out this guide to learn how to get cheap rental car insurance.
Figure Out if You Need Rental Car Insurance
First things first, you need to figure out if you need rental car insurance. Many auto insurance policies already cover rental car insurance, so make sure to check with your insurance company to see what your policy includes.
Often, using your own insurance is cheaper than purchasing separate rental car insurance. Plus, there’s less paperwork involved if you go this route.
However, if you’re traveling abroad, you likely won’t be able to use your auto insurance, even if it offers additional coverage. Your auto insurance may also not provide you with the coverage you need if you get in an accident, which is why it’s so important to review your policy.
See if You Qualify for Discounts
Many rental car insurance companies offer discounts to drivers that meet specific requirements. For example, if you served in the military, you may qualify for a discount.
The same goes for senior citizens, students, homeowners, and safe drivers. There are also some discounts offered for loyal customers or for those who have taken defensive driving courses.
Before purchasing rental car insurance, ask the provider if you qualify for any special discounts. Oftentimes, these discounts can knock 10 to 15 percent off your total price.
Join the Right Club
Being a member of a specific club can also qualify you for cheaper rental car insurance rates. For example, big-box chain stores like Costco and BJ’s offer their own car rental affiliate programs.
These programs offer discounts on rental cars as well as discounts on rental car insurance. AAA also has an exclusive membership with Hertz that can help you save money. And, AARP offers exclusive memberships with Avis and Budget Rent a Car.
Bundle Up
Bundling up your rental car insurance with your flight, hotel, and rental car can also help you save money. Expedia, Orbitz, and Travelocity are all big travel sites that offer discounts when you opt for a bundled package.
However, to get a good deal, you need to be prepared to book everything at the same time, so make sure you have your trip planned out. You can also look at hotel and airline sites for discounts on rental car insurance.
Check With Your Credit Card Company
Many credit card companies also partner with rental car insurance companies to offer discounted rates.
For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card allows you to book car rentals and rental insurance at a discounted rate right from their online credit card dashboard. This card also offers an excellent signup bonus.
Rental Car Insurance: Time to Buy
Now that you know how to find cheap rental car insurance, it’s time to make your purchase. With the above tips, you should be able to find rental car insurance at an affordable price.
Be sure to check back in with our blog for more insurance-related news and tips.