The True Cost Of Cheap Car Rentals

David J. Danto

Travel thoughts in my own, personal opinion

eMail: ddanto@IMCCA.org Follow Industry News: @NJDavidD on

The True Cost of Cheap Car Rentals– December 2024

I’m spending more on rental cars, and, surprisingly, I’m okay with it. To clarify, I’m not thrilled about overpaying for anything, but sometimes you realize that convenience, reliability, and a touch of sanity are worth the premium. I’m sure you remember Continental blowhard Bethune talking about cheapening the pizza? Well, apparently you can make one too cheap.

Back when the company I worked for was acquired, I was forced to switch rental car providers to Avis, per corporate policy. My experiences with Avis were, in a word, dismal. The app promised lots of functionality – like switching assigned cars – but that and other features NEVER worked. Cars were often dirty, mismatched with my requests, and consistently below par. Despite four years of loyalty, I never managed to have a good experience. If you’ve read my past blogs, you’ve seen the screenshots: frustration distilled into pixels.

After leaving that job a couple of years ago, my family continued using Avis because of the discount we received. Recently, however, I faced a decision. On my last trip, the cost difference between Avis and my preferred provider, National, was a mere $40 for a weekly rental. That’s when I had a look-in-the-mirror moment: “Am I worth $40 for a far superior experience and the ability to choose my own car at the lot?” The answer from the guy in the mirror, unequivocally, was yes.

National charges a premium, but it’s a premium for predictability and ease. I know that when I land at the airport, there’s no hassle. I walk to the aisle, pick the car I want, and drive off. No dirty vehicles, no app mishaps, no customer service headaches. For a frequent traveler, that’s worth its weight in gold – or at least the $40.

This realization led me to a broader epiphany: You can’t always choose the lowest-priced provider, even when the product – be it a Toyota, Nissan, or GM car – is ostensibly the same. Service and experience matter. Whether it’s the ease of selecting a car or knowing it’s been properly cleaned and prepped, National delivers in ways Avis never did.

This logic applies beyond rental cars. On the road, I often tip service providers who deliver better experiences. From hotel housekeepers to valet attendants to restaurant servers, I reward good service. Why wouldn’t I apply the same principle upfront to something as central to my travels as a rental car?

So as the year winds down, I’ve hit a milestone: I’ve stopped chasing the lowest price for rental cars. Even for equivalent vehicles, price isn’t everything. Travel is challenging enough without the added frustration of subpar service. For me, spending a little more to ensure a hassle-free experience is a worthwhile investment.

Here’s to 2025: a year of choosing comfort and reliability over savings that come with a hidden cost. Sometimes, it’s okay to admit – we’re worth it.

May you and yours have a terrific holiday season, and a new year filled with good health, happiness, peace and prosperity. Safe travels!

This article was written by David Danto and contains solely his own, personal opinions.

All image and links provided above as reference under prevailing fair use statutes.

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As always, feel free to write and comment, question or disagree. Hearing from the traveling community is always a highlight for me. Thanks!