Travelers have begun to find out that prior to their departure, they can get largely reduced deals on their airfare particularly when the airlines want to fill available seats.
This may be a complete gamble but it actually works for travelers especially at the last minute. On the other hand, it does NOT work in car rentals.
Most car rental companies stock up on their cars at the time when they know it would be more profitable. This simply means that car rental companies want to limit their cars during the slow season then provide a huge stock to achieve the highest profit during the peak season for traveling in Hawaii.
This is the reason why car rental companies are willing to accept low percentages for unused cars and do not normally offer last minute deals just to increase rentals.
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In Hawaii, the peak traveling season is between December 15 and March 1. The last weeks of December are usually very busy, which is why this is the period that car rental companies significantly increase their rental rates.
If you booked for your Hawaii trip in advance, you would surely find a car rental company that would give you a flat rate during that period. However, travelers need to be aware that there is the probability of these companies selling out their car rentals at least 3 to 4 months before the start of the peak season.
For car rental types, minivans are in short supply and popular, and thus are sold out at least three months prior to the peak season date. In case you do find a minivan that is available for hire, they are sure to be steeply priced.
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If you want to get the best deal for minivan rentals, try to reserve the minivan at least six months before the peak season. Last minute reservations are definitely not recommended.
Cars like SUVs are the next in line after minivans because they can transport up to 5 passengers. Four-wheel drive capability and large luggage space are the reasons why they rank second only to the minivan (even though 4wd is mostly a gimmick and does not provide more traction or safety). The SUVs are usually sold out within two weeks after most of the minivans become unavailable for rental.
The summer months are the next peak season for vacation in Hawaii. Car rental companies also increase their rental rates during this period. There are some car rental companies that give out flat rates during the summer thus obliging the client to rent a car at least three months before the summer season starts.
Car availability is dependent on the island destination that the renter wishes to visit. Hawaii is the most visited island among the chain islands of the state of Hawaii. Most car rental companies located in Hawaii sell out earlier compared to the other areas.
There are two main airports, the Hilo and Kona, in Hawaii. Size-wise, Hilo is smaller than Kona. By the last week of November, Kona has likely sold out every type of rental vehicles.
You will likely be disappointed if you wait until the first few weeks of December to apply for a rental car of your choice. You may not get the best deal and you will also have to choose from other available cars (you wanted a minivan but the only vehicle available is a full-sized car). Remember to rent a car at least six months before the December peak season and at least three months before the summer season.
You are not penalized in case you need to make any changes or cancellations. Make sure you bring along the money you have allotted for renting a car so you can use it for other things to make your trip more fun and enjoyable.
Tagged with: car for rent • car rental tips
Filed under: Car Rental