What To Do If No Car Rentals Available

If you’ve ever tried to rent a car and found that none were available, you know how frustrating it can be. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, not having a car can throw a wrench in your plans. Fortunately, there are several things you can do if you find yourself in this situation. In this article, we’ll cover some tips for what to do if no car rentals are available.

Check with Different Rental Companies

The first thing you should do if you can’t find a rental car is to check with different rental companies. Some rental companies may have sold out their inventory for the dates you need, while others may still have cars available. By checking with multiple companies, you increase your chances of finding a car.

Consider Alternative Transportation Methods

If you’ve exhausted all options for rental cars, consider other transportation methods. Depending on where you’re traveling, public transportation may be available, such as buses or trains. Alternatively, you could use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. If you’re staying in a hotel, inquire about shuttle services they may offer.

Explore Car Sharing Options

Another option to consider if no car rentals are available is car sharing. Car sharing services allow you to rent a car from individuals, rather than from a traditional rental company. Examples of car sharing services include Turo and Zipcar. Keep in mind that car sharing services may require membership fees or have stricter eligibility requirements.

Look into Rental Car Delivery Services

Some rental car companies offer delivery services, where they deliver the car to your location. This option may be more expensive than picking up a car from the rental location, but it’s worth considering if you’re in a bind. Make sure to inquire about delivery fees and availability before committing to this option.

Consider Changing Your Travel Plans

If finding a rental car is proving to be impossible, consider changing your travel plans. This may mean altering your itinerary or choosing a different destination altogether. While this isn’t an ideal solution, it may be necessary if you’re unable to secure a rental car.

Book Ahead of Time

One way to avoid the frustration of not finding a rental car is to book ahead of time. By making a reservation in advance, you ensure that there will be a car available for you when you arrive. Keep in mind that booking ahead of time may also save you money, as prices tend to increase the closer you get to your travel dates.

Consider Non-Traditional Rental Car Companies

In addition to traditional rental car companies, there are also non-traditional rental car companies to consider. For example, peer-to-peer car rental services like Getaround and Turo allow you to rent a car directly from a private owner. This can be a cost-effective and convenient option, especially if you’re looking for a specific type of vehicle.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

If you’re able to be flexible with your travel dates, consider adjusting them to increase your chances of finding a rental car. Weekends and holidays tend to be the busiest times for rental car companies, so if you can travel during the week or during off-peak times, you may have more luck finding a car.

Rent from a Nearby Location

If you’re unable to find a rental car at your intended destination, try looking for rental cars at nearby locations. For example, if you’re flying into a city, try checking rental car options at a nearby airport. Keep in mind that you may need to arrange transportation to get to the rental location.

Use a Travel Agent

If you’re still having trouble finding a rental car, consider using a travel agent. Travel agents have access to a wide range of resources and can often find rental cars even when they appear to be sold out. While using a travel agent may add to your travel costs, it can be a good option if you’re feeling stuck.

Conclusion

While not being able to find a rental car can be frustrating, there are several options available to you. By checking with multiple rental companies, considering alternative transportation methods, and being flexible with your travel plans, you increase your chances of finding a car. If all else fails, consider changing your travel plans or using a travel agent.

FAQ

1. Are rental car companies required to have a certain number of cars available?

   • No, rental car companies are not required to have a certain number of cars available. Availability is dependent on demand and inventory.

2. How far in advance should I book a rental car?

   • It’s recommended to book a rental car at least a week in advance, although booking further in advance is even better.

3. Can I rent a car if I’m under 25 years old?

   • Some rental car companies have age restrictions, requiring drivers to be at least 25 years old. However, others may allow drivers as young as 21, although they may charge additional fees.

4. Do rental car companies charge extra fees for additional drivers?

   • Yes, rental car companies typically charge additional fees for additional drivers. These fees vary depending on the company and the location.

5. Can I use my own insurance when renting a car?

   • It’s possible to use your own insurance when renting a car, but you should check with your insurance provider to ensure that you’re covered. Some insurance policies may not cover rental cars or may have limitations.