Does anyone know which rental car co. is the best to deal with, and has the best rates. We are flying into Orlando. Thanks

Of all the national dealers, i've found that Dollar, Thrifty, and Budget offer the best prices. I've used them a lot and have had no problems with them. I've also heard that Payless is good, but I've never used them. Have fun in Florida!

We almost always use Enterprise. We have found them to be less restrictive and easier to deal with especially if you want larger cars.

I've had a couple of bad experiences with Enterprise--they've lost my reservation twice. I've had only good experiences with National--good customer service, decent rates.

Avoid Budget. I booked a car with them in Florida, and they weren't very happy when I asked to be picked up from my hotel (they advertise customer drop-off), then never showed up anyway. When I called, they claimed whoever had gone to pick me up got lost. This was in Key West, which is about 1.5 by 4 miles--kind of difficult to get lost in.

We rented from Alamo when we visited in 1996. When we arrived at their rental facility there were huge lines and we waited about an hour before finally getting to the agent. We had a similar wait with Alamo at there Los Angeles airport facility. I don't know if the other companies also have such long waits in Orlando, but for a little more money it would have been worth going with another company. In other cities, I have rented from National, Dollar, and Thrifty, we were very happy with all three. To find the best rates, call each of the companies, mention if you belong to any associations or discount groups, such as Entertainment or Triple A. Some companies also offer web only discounts if you book online.

We always use National. Frequent shuttle
buses; friendly, informative drivers;
good rates; clean cars. Their Emerald
Club service is top-notch!
In contrast we have had terrible
experiences with Hertz. That's why we
switched to National!

I have had rotten experiences with Alamo and Avis. Hidden costs, rude clerks, long lines. These experiences have been in Orlando, Tampa, and New Orleans. Its gotten to the point where I expect car rental to be a very unhappy experience. I don't really think its me, I generally don't rub people the wrong way... Its not going to stop me from renting cars, I just try not to take it personal. The biggest problem is the hidden costs.

Kim,

Rented from Alamo last summer in Orlando. Line was long, long, long. Easily one hour. Also, pay close attention to the charges, as I have had Alamo make mistakes in their favor.

Hi,
We had an awful time with Hertz in Orlando. Long lines, long wait. Rude employees. However, this was 5 years ago so maybe things have improved. The contrast between the service we received at Hertz and the service we received at Dixie Landings at WDW was amazing. DL was so accommodating!!

I used to love Alamo but have found in recent years they've gone downhill in terms of long lines, etc. -- particularly in their Florida locations for some reason! For some reason the best rates and service I've had lately have been with National.

Kim, whatever company you choose, be sure to join their preferred customer program. You'll avoid the lines.

With Dollar (Fastlane) and Thrifty (Blue Chip Member Club) it's free. Check out their web sites.

I agree with Brian, join the clubs at whatever company you rent from and it should go very quick. I've had problems at some Alamo lots before but once I joined their program, i've never had a real problem.