Be Wary of Rental Car Counter Upgrade Offers

This tip is particularly relevant when renting from smaller locations, or those that may have a limited supply.  Occasionally at the rental counter, the agent will ask you if you’d like to spend an extra $5 or $10 per day to upgrade to a premium vehicle. The offer may be tempting and sound like a great deal – but don’t take it. If they have limited supply, they may not have the car category you reserved and will then need to provide you the upgraded vehicle anyway, but at the rate you originally booked.  Essentially, you’ll get a free upgrade.

If this wasn’t the case and they provide you the car that you booked, you can always change your mind at the counter and tell them you’d like the upgrade offer.