Is it just me or have the rental car prices been going through the roof?
Renting a Small SUV in April In Billings and am quoted 54.00 a day with 3000. miles limit at .27 a mile after.
Any ideas how to get this down to a more reasonable price for the Small SUV?

Unfortunately you're going to one of those places where it seems unlimited mileage is not the rule.

What about Priceline or Hotwire?

Have you checked if there is a difference between renting at an airport or a location in the city?
Where have you looked for rates?
Are you renting for only a couple of days?
Try signing up with a couple of car rentals and see what kind of deals they send to you via email.
Or try calling them.

Just my experience... I think there is good competition out there.

I have always gone through Priceline for my rental cars and never paid more than $17 per day... and that was one rare exception. I got one in Philly for $9 per day, Nashville and Charleston at $12 per day. IT works fairly well for me and I have never had a problem.

I also only book compact or economy, although they typically give me something larger. In Philly, for example, they gave me a Ford Escape instead of a compact. Not sure why, but I did not complain. I was also given a small SUV in Fort Lauderdale when I got the $17 rate.

Give it a shot. You can save big money. They only drawback is you do not get a refund if you cancel (unless you pay for the trip insurance)

Its just you. In small markets rentals are usually more expensive. A couple of years ago I was quoted that much (with more per mile) for the smallest car available at the Escanaba airport.

That time I managed to save a little with an AARP discount. The person with the rental company wasn't happy when he saw I was paying ONLY $43 a day.

Keith

It's just seasonal supply and demand. Check daily for a decent deal/special.

We just booked a 4 door compact car in New hampshire for only $80 a WEEK, but then they add on 52 percent in taxes and fees.

I agree with 1JAR, website rates have seemed to increase along with the appearance of "prepay" discount options with online rental agencies. Suggest you don't prepay and recheck the rates a few days before traveling, in my experience they often are lower versus trying to book >1 month in advance.

Just a couple of clarifications:
rental dates 4/13/07 thru 4/30/07.
I am both Hertz and Avis member.
They say they quoted me best rates with AARP, AAA, Costco and USAA...and p/u for Avis is off airport in Billings
I saw the other post about lesson learned re: Priceline or Hotwire no cx or changes.

I guses I am just serching for any ideas, coupons other sites...