Last updated Mar. 30, 2025 by Charles Zemub
Booking a rental car using rewards points is not only possible but can also save you substantial money on your travels. Whether you travel often or once a year, learning how to use your points can make your trips more rewarding. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to effectively book a rental car using your rewards points. We’ll cover how loyalty programs work, the best strategies for redeeming your points, how different redemption options compare, and tips for maximizing your savings.
Understanding Rewards Points and Loyalty Programs
Rewards points are typically earned through loyalty programs connected to credit cards, airlines, or even car rental companies themselves. These points can then be redeemed for a variety of products and services, including rental cars. Let’s break down the key types of loyalty programs that can be utilized:
1. Credit Card Reward Programs
Many credit cards offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points based on your spending. These points can often be transferred to car rental companies or redeemed directly through the credit card’s travel portal. Some of the most popular credit card rewards programs include American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Citi ThankYou Points.
2. Airline Frequent Flyer Programs
Frequent flyer programs not only administer points for flights but often partner with rental car companies to allow the conversion of miles into car rental discounts or free rentals. Common programs like Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus offer such options.
3. Car Rental Loyalty Programs
Most rental companies have their own loyalty programs, such as Enterprise Plus, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, and Avis Preferred. These programs reward frequent customers with points that can be directly redeemed for free rental days.
Booking a Rental Car with Rewards Points
The process to book a rental car with points can vary depending on the source of your rewards. However, the general steps are quite similar. Here’s a detailed look at how to go about it:
Step 1: Determine Your Points Balance
The first step is to know how many points you have. Log in to your rewards account, whether it be via your credit card provider, airline program, or rental company’s loyalty program, to see your current points total.
Step 2: Compare Redemption Methods
Decide which method of redemption offers the best value. Check your points-to-cash conversion rates, and compare those rates across different platforms if your rewards points can be transferred or used in various ways.
Step 3: Check Availability
Before committing your points, ensure that the rental car you need is available for your travel dates. Availability may vary by location, so it’s important to check directly with the rental company or through your reward program portal.
Step 4: Book Your Rental Car
Once you’ve confirmed availability and determined the best value, proceed with booking your rental car using your rewards points:
- Via Credit Card Travel Portal: Many credit card companies have travel portals where you can book using points directly at a set value per point.
- Transfer Points: If transferring points from your credit card or airline program to a car rental loyalty program provides better value, complete the transfer before booking.
- Direct Redemption: If using car rental loyalty points, sign into your account with the rental company and redeem your points against the booking.
Step 5: Confirm Your Booking
After booking, ensure you receive a confirmation email or message. Keep this on hand in case of any discrepancies when picking up your rental car.
✓ Short Answer
Booking a rental car using rewards points involves checking your points balance, comparing redemption options for value, checking car availability, and proceeding with your booking through your selected rewards portal. Whether redeeming through a credit card travel portal, transferring points, or using car rental loyalty, ensure you receive confirmation for your booking.
Tips for Maximizing Savings When Using Points
- Combine Offers: Sometimes you can combine points with discounts, promo codes, or cash to stretch your points further.
- Utilize Credit Card Perks: Some credit cards offer insurance coverage for car rentals, potentially saving you on additional insurance costs at the rental counter.
- Monitor Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions or seasonal offers that can boost the value of your points.
- Read the Terms and Conditions: Ensure you understand any restrictions or blackout dates that might apply when redeeming points.
Comparing Different Redemption Strategies
When it comes to redeeming rewards points, some methods are more advantageous than others:
- Direct Redemption through Rental Loyalty Programs: These often provide greater value per point especially if you’re a frequent renter. The points tend to have straightforward redemption options.
- Credit Card Travel Portals: They offer ease of use and flexibility, allowing you to compare prices and availability among multiple rental companies.
- Transferring Points: Transferring can be beneficial if the rental company offers a lesser points requirement for the same value. However, make sure to check for transfer ratios.
FAQs
How Do Points Convert for Car Rentals?
Typically, points can be converted into a cash value that is applied to the cost of the rental. The exact conversion rate depends on the rewards program you are using, so it’s crucial to compare the value across the options available to you.
Can I Combine Points from Different Programs?
Points are generally not transferable between different programs, but many credit card rewards systems allow you to transfer to a variety of airlines or rental programs. Check individual program guidelines for specifics.
Are There Fees Involved When Using Points?
Most programs allow you to redeem points without any additional fees, but certain rental locations might have taxes or additional mandatory fees not covered by rewards points.
What Happens If I Need to Cancel My Booking?
Cancellation policies vary, and you should review the terms for both the rental company and the rewards program. Points may be refunded, but the timing and conditions depend on the issuer’s policies.
Why Is Availability Different When Using Points?
Availability might differ when booking with points because certain seats or cars are allocated specifically for rewards bookings. Regular updates to availability are common, so check back if your needed dates aren’t initially available.
Can I Earn Points When Booking with Points?
Typically, booking with points does not accrue additional loyalty points for that rental, but it’s best to confirm with the rental company’s policy. Always review the earning structure for your specific program.
Booking a rental car with rewards points can be a cost-effective way to travel. By understanding the nuances of different rewards programs and strategically redeeming your points, you can maximize the value of your accumulated points for your next car rental.
