[50 ANNIVERSARY]

This is the last detail for our trip.

Background: We have 3 groups flying in from 3 states, 2 will use the Disney Express (Free) program and my group, arriving last will rent a car so we can stop and shop and stock up our room at Saratoga Springs.

Question: When do you book to find the best bargains on car rentals? We plan to use Disney transportation and just will have a car in case we need to run to the store or want to hit the outlet malls during the "rest in the room time". So any tips from the experts on the best time to book a car, good deals would be appreciated too, we are a AAA member.

Again, thanks...

[Peppertink]

I usually book as early as possible....car rates tend to get higher the closer you get to your departure date. Especially if it is during a busy time. Always mention any AAA or other discounts you might have.

[ddoll]

I've found a lot of the car companies have been holding on to their specials until about a month out from the dates.

I'd book as early as you can and keep checking back for discounts. It doesn't cost you anything to book and cancel later.

Mousesavers.com keeps a page with all the current discount codes for all the car rental agencies up to date.

[Batgirl]

We rented cars on our last several trips to WDW, but are using Quicksilver next time. (Thanks, Mickey!)

When we have rented a car, we started by checking www.travelocity.com or www.expedia.com and did a general search on our dates for all cars of all types. That gives you a good idea of the range of prices. We go to the company's website that has the lowest price to do the reservation (it sometimes can be cheaper).

Note that some of the car rental places in Orlando are *way* off site. If it is important to have car rental very near the baggage claim, make sure the company you are using has the cars on site.

Good luck!

[iluvwdw]

I TOTALLY agree with ddoll...book using whatever discounts you have as early as possible. Then, check every day (well, that's what I do because I am neurotic about getting the best deal ). Mousesavers typically lists TONS of codes. Try ALL of those for your dates and times, and also try putting your info in on the rental sites without any codes. Often you will get a better deal that way. Strange, but true.

We ALWAYS rent a car, and the lowest prices we have found by far are through discounts offered by COSTCO or BJ's Warehouse.

GOOD LUCK!

[ddoll]

Another pretty decent source is Southwest.com. I've found some rates there to be lower than the car website specials.

[50 ANNIVERSARY]

Thanks for the tips, just booked with Dollar for $214 for the week for a full size SUV. This is the best price seen and you were right no discounts gave the best deal. Have I said recently how much I enjoy this site and the wealth of talent. Happy Holidays to all and please, please, please post some trip reports!