Frequent travelers know that every little perk counts, especially when it comes to car rentals. Car rental loyalty programs are designed to reward repeat customers with benefits like faster service, free upgrades, and reward points. But with so many options available, determining “What Is The Best Car Rental Loyalty Program” can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down what to look for and highlights some top contenders to help you make the best choice for your travel needs.
Top Car Rental Loyalty Programs
Several major car rental companies offer loyalty programs, each with its own set of advantages. Here’s a brief overview of some of the leading programs:
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Avis Preferred: Avis Preferred offers expedited service, skipping lines and paperwork. Members can earn Avis Preferred Points for every qualifying dollar spent, redeemable for rentals, upgrades, and accessories. Higher tiers offer even more benefits like complimentary upgrades and bonus points.
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Hertz Gold Plus Rewards: Hertz Gold Plus Rewards is known for its convenience. Members can bypass the counter at many locations and choose their car from the Gold Choice aisle. Points are earned on rentals and can be redeemed for free rental days. Hertz also frequently offers promotions and bonus point opportunities.
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Enterprise Plus: Enterprise Plus members earn points on qualifying rentals at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental, and Alamo Rent A Car. Points can be redeemed for free rental days at any of these brands. Enterprise Plus is straightforward and easy to understand, making it a popular choice for many renters.
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National Emerald Club: National Emerald Club is particularly appealing to frequent business travelers. Members enjoy Emerald Aisle access, allowing them to choose any car in the Emerald Aisle area (mid-size car rate). Emerald Club also offers expedited service and rewards points redeemable for free days.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Program
The “best” car rental loyalty program isn’t universal; it depends on your individual travel habits and preferences. Consider these factors when making your decision:
Travel Frequency and Rental Needs
If you rent cars frequently, a loyalty program is almost essential. Frequent renters will benefit most from programs that offer faster point accumulation and valuable rewards like free rental days and upgrades. Consider how often you rent and for what purposes (business, leisure) to align with a program that rewards your typical rental patterns.
Brand Preference and Location
Think about which car rental brands you tend to use most often. If you consistently rent from a specific company due to location convenience or personal preference, their loyalty program is a natural fit. Also, consider where you typically rent cars. Some programs may have a stronger presence or better benefits in certain regions or airports.
Reward Preferences
Different programs offer different types of rewards. Some focus on free rental days, while others prioritize upgrades or offer partnerships with hotels and airlines. Consider what type of rewards are most valuable to you. Do you prefer saving money on future rentals, or are you more interested in perks that enhance your rental experience, like vehicle upgrades?
Maximizing Your Loyalty Program Benefits
Once you’ve chosen a program, take steps to maximize your benefits:
- Understand Tier Status: Most programs have tiered status levels. Understand the requirements to reach higher tiers and the enhanced benefits they offer.
- Take Advantage of Promotions: Car rental companies frequently offer bonus points or promotional periods. Pay attention to these offers to accelerate your point earnings.
- Explore Partner Benefits: Some programs partner with airlines, hotels, or credit card companies, allowing you to earn points or status through multiple avenues.
Conclusion
Choosing the best car rental loyalty program is about aligning your travel habits and preferences with the program that offers the most relevant rewards and benefits for you. There’s no single “best” program, but by considering your rental frequency, brand preference, and reward priorities, you can select a program that enhances your travel experience and saves you money in the long run.
