Colorado Springs Airport (COS) serves as a gateway to the stunning Pikes Peak region, attracting tourists and business travelers alike. Finding the right rental car at the best price is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide will help you navigate the car rental landscape at COS, highlighting special offers, discounts, and tips to save money.
Where Can I Find Car Rental Deals at Colorado Springs Airport?
Several major rental car companies operate at Colorado Springs Airport, including Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, and Budget. Each company frequently offers various promotions, often targeting specific demographics or travel periods. The best way to find the current deals is to:
- Check their websites directly: Visit the individual websites of each rental car company. Look for their "Specials" or "Deals" sections, often prominently displayed on the homepage. Many companies offer discounts for AAA members, military personnel, or those associated with specific organizations.
- Use comparison websites: Kayak, Expedia, Priceline, and other travel comparison websites allow you to search across multiple rental car companies simultaneously. This lets you compare prices and offers side-by-side, making it easier to identify the best deal. Remember that these sites may not always show all available deals, so checking directly with the rental companies is still recommended.
- Sign up for email newsletters: Subscribe to the email newsletters of your preferred rental car companies. This is a great way to stay informed about upcoming promotions and special offers tailored to your preferences.
- Look for package deals: Airlines and hotels sometimes partner with rental car companies to offer bundled packages. These packages often include discounted car rental rates as part of a larger travel package.
What Discounts are Typically Available for Colorado Springs Airport Car Rentals?
Many discounts are available depending on the time of year, your affiliation, or the duration of your rental. These include:
- AAA Member Discounts: Many rental car companies offer discounts to members of the American Automobile Association (AAA).
- Military Discounts: Active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families often qualify for discounted rates. Be sure to have your military ID ready when booking.
- Senior Citizen Discounts: Some companies offer discounts to senior citizens (typically age 65 and older).
- Corporate Discounts: Companies with frequent travel needs may negotiate special rates with rental car companies.
- Early Bird Specials or Last-Minute Deals: Check for deals available when booking far in advance or close to your travel dates. These deals fluctuate based on availability.
- Weekly or Monthly Rentals: Renting a vehicle for a week or longer often results in significantly lower daily rates.
Are There Any Off-Season Discounts at Colorado Springs Airport?
Yes, off-season travel (typically excluding major holidays and peak tourist seasons) often offers lower rental car prices. The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) usually offer a sweet spot between pleasant weather and lower costs. This is a great time to explore the region and save money on your rental car.
How Can I Get the Best Deal on a Car Rental at Colorado Springs Airport?
To maximize your savings:
- Book in advance: Booking your rental car well in advance, particularly during peak season, can help you secure better rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
- Be flexible with your dates: If your travel dates are flexible, consider shifting them to weekdays or less popular travel times to potentially find lower prices.
- Consider smaller vehicles: Compact or economy cars typically have lower rental rates than larger SUVs or trucks.
- Decline extras if unnecessary: Carefully review the optional extras (like insurance or GPS) and decline them if you don't need them. You may already have coverage through your credit card or personal insurance.
- Check for fuel policies: Understand the fuel policy before you pick up your vehicle. Some companies charge a refueling fee, while others allow you to return the car with a full tank.
By utilizing these tips and strategies, you can find excellent deals on Colorado Springs Airport car rentals and make the most of your trip to this beautiful part of Colorado. Remember to always compare prices and read the terms and conditions before confirming your booking.
