Tips and suggestions for booking rental car

Rental car rates are climbing. Here are tips to keep them down:

Shave a couple of days off your rental. Use free or low-cost airport shuttles for hotel transport, then pick up a local rental the day after you arrive. Many rental companies have city locations with rates as much as $20 less than at the airport. Enterprise ( www.enterprise.com) is a leader with rates as low as $9.99 a day. But comparison-shop and ask for a recommendation from your hotel.

Consider regional car rental companies. The Internet makes them easy to find. BreezeNet.com covers about 50 companies. But smaller agency savings can come at a sacrifice. Hours and car choice may be limited, and extras such as child safety seats and GPS systems can be hard to find.

If you opt for a major car rental company, compare rates for booking online and by phone.

Consider alternate airports. Airfare and car rental rates are likely to be lower.

Book early. Because there are no penalties for canceling a reservation, lock in the best available rate now. If a better rate opens up, cancel and book a new one.

Book the smallest car available (at the lowest rate). You might be upgraded.

If you’re renting for five days or more, request a weekly rate.

If you decide to rent from the majors, use your frequent-flier, AAA or other memberships to get the lowest possible rate.

Clarify if there’s any mileage charge. Reconfirm the rate at the rental counter.

Decline Collision Damage Waiver coverage if you are covered by your personal car insurance policy or credit card coverage (generally, the higher the level of card you use, the better the coverage). And make sure the charge doesn’t mysteriously reappear when you turn in your car.

Be clear on return policies. Some companies offer a 59-minute grace period; others don’t.

Rates can increase dramatically if you keep your car beyond the pre-agreed rental period. If you change plans, call the agency and negotiate the best possible add-on rate.

Check the car before you leave the lot. Note any damage on the rental form. If you have a camera, take a photo of the damage in case any dispute arises.