One of the best ways to guarantee an enjoyable vacation is to rent a car from a budget car rental company; imagine being able to go somewhere at any time of the day or night without the wait for a taxi to collect you – and then of course there's the cost to consider! The one thing you don't want though is to be lumbered with a car that sounds like your lawnmower. I am not trying to put you off renting a car, just making sure you are aware that some companies will try to rent you something that will not be suitable. That said; here are a few ideas you can use when organizing your rental car.

If you're not choosy about what car you rent, try to get your budget car rental through sites that let you choose cars at your own price. Some of these sites are just comparison sites but well worth your time as they have done all the hard work for you. When you look, pay attention to the fly-drive packages as they will often discount car rentals although the airlines are not so accommodating. Unfortunately, airlines although convenient aren't really the more economic way to go, their car rental prices are hardly budget, and tend to be higher than those of outside firms.

There are bargains to be found on the internet and that also means budget car rental as well. Some websites even go as far as internet only discounts which can save a great deal of money. If you see an offer that looks good, you do not have to take the first one that comes your way because if one car rental company has a special offer on, then they probably won't be the only one. Plus, and this is the good bit; all this can be done from your home.

If you are phoning, ask for discounts that can be applicable to you, remember even when you've scored the best deal, there is still that one last ditch of a possibility that one of your credit cards support the company and provide budget car rental discounts. The frequent flyer program is still available or perhaps you are a member of an organization that has preferential rates arranged.

Most rental cars are low on maintenance so when you rent a car, check all sides for damage. I mean every side and every nook and cranny of that car, make sure to inform the renter of these so that you wont have to pay for damages once you return the car. For you own peace of mind and financial well-being, check out all the vehicles controls and make sure everything that is fitted works so you won't have to pay for something that was faulty when you drove it away.

Before you decide to use the rental company's insurance plans, take a look at your own policy as you will probably find that it covers rental car insurance as well. Even though rental car insurance isn't going to cost you a fortune, there is no point in paying it if you are already covered; whatever the case, you must still have insurance cover when you rent a car so don't try and skip it to save money.

Remember that car insurance is always required when you rent a car.