RainyDay09

I booked a car rental at BWI on Priceline and just got an email that car rentals for the same period are almost $100 cheaper on Hotwire. I am traveling in just a bit over a week, so I didn't want to wait until the last moment as prices have gone up in the past years for the Fourth of July weekend. In your experience, is it best to wait until the last moment to reserve a car?

nyer

Most car rental reservations still don't require a credit card deposit, so I generally book when I first think about a trip, and then check periodically. Unless some special sale comes up booking last minute has not usually been cheaper. I have never had a problem cancelling a car rental. This may change some day, but for now car rentals are the easiest least risk bookings as far as I can tell.

RainyDay09

the problem is that I am now locked in with Priceline, because it was a blind bidding. Oh well, I guess I'll know next year.

Christina

in my experience, no, it is not best to wait until the last minute. Usually rates go up -- in my experience.

tracys2cents

I've never seen a car rental deal on hotwire or priceline that made it worth paying in advance with no possibility of refund should you need to cancel. Saving $3 per day is not worth that kind of gamble.

tomfuller

When you first know your travel dates, use Orbitz or Expedia.
About 4-5 days before your trip, check again for a lower price.
Usually what you booked first will be lower. No sense in blind bidding if you suddenly can't make the trip. There are times when Hertz, Avis or National will be within a dollar/day when you book directly at least 30 days in advance. You pay when you sign the rental agreement not before.