What are some tips and hacks when booking a rental car?

Here are some tips and hacks for booking a rental car:

1. **Book in Advance**: Booking your rental car in advance can ensure you get the best rates and availability.
2. **Choose Downtown Locations**: Renting from downtown locations is often cheaper than airport outposts. NerdWallet found that seven-night rentals in downtown areas were $86 cheaper than at airports.
3. **Use Loyalty Programs**: Take advantage of loyalty programs for discounts and perks. For example, AAA memberships can provide discounts and waive underage driver fees.
4. **Select Economy Cars**: Opt for economy cars as they are typically the cheapest and most frequently booked.
5. **Avoid Extra Fees**: Refuse extras like roadside assistance and satellite radio to save money.
6. **Consider Car-Sharing Services**: Companies like Turo and ZipCar offer cheaper rental options, especially for frequent users.
7. **Check for Insurance Coverage**: Good travel credit cards often provide insurance, so you might not need to purchase additional coverage.
8. **Pay Attention to Fine Print**: Read the fine print when using travel credit cards to see if you're already covered for car insurance.
9. **Timing is Key**: Find deals during off-peak seasons or use tools like PriceLabs to manage your rental prices based on demand and seasonality.
10. **Use AAA or Costco**: Members of AAA or Costco can access deals through their respective programs, which often offer lower rates than major car rental companies.

By following these tips and hacks, you can save money and make the most of your rental car experience.