Planning a trip? Why not go through Costco? Not only does Costco offer amazing travel packages, which even include honeymoon packages, but they also offer car rentals when traveling. But how does the Costco travel car rental program work? And what do you need to know when planning? Keep reading to find out everything there is to know about Costco rentals. 

For more information on the amazing packages for members, keep checking back at Costco97. And be sure to stay in touch with the upcoming coupons, listed in our Costco Coupon Book  (updated monthly). 

Related: Costco Travel Packages: How to Use Your Membership to Save on Vacation

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What is Costco’s Travel Car Rental Program?

Costco Car Rental, Google Commons

So, what exactly is the Costco car rental program? Along with Costco’s travel program, which provides discounted rates on hotels, vacation packages, and even cruises, they partner with major brands like Enterprise to offer lower rates on car rentals. Look no further for a budget-friendly vacation. 

Do You Have to Be a Member to Take Advantage of This Program?

Yes, in order to utilize the Costco travel car rental program, along with the other traveling packages, the primary driver must be a Costco member. Costco’s FAQ page notes that you might have to show your Costco membership card upon pick-up to verify before you can head out, so make sure to have it on you. 

The good news is this applies to all members, even if you only have to have the Gold Star standard membership. However, if you want even more savings, like 2% cashback during your vacation purchases, then you’ll need to upgrade to the Executive membership. 

How Does It Work? 

Car Rental Work, Unsplash

Booking your car rental is easy! All you have to do is head to the Costco Travel website. From there, click the Rental Cars option at the top, and plug in the information such as when and where you want to pick up your vehicle as well as how long you want to rent the vehicle. 

You can also make a reservation over the phone if you have questions or concerns before booking (866) 921-7925.

Cancellation Policy

Of course, when it comes to Costco, you already know one of the biggest perks is their return and cancellation policy. 

Unlike other car rentals, canceling your car rental can be done at any time. Plus, Costco does not charge a penalty fee if you cancel prior to picking up your car. You can do so through “Bookings” once you sign into the Travel website. Check the FAQ page for precise steps on how to cancel. 

Changing Rental Reservation

Just need to move some things around? No worries! It’s just as easy to change your reservation. All you need to do is cancel your previous reservation and place a new one. You will not have any penalty fees when doing this either. 

Are the Savings Worth It? 

The savings from Costco travel car rental are totally worth it! To compare, we’ve input rental information through Costco’s travel car rental program to be picked up at Kansas City International Airport where you can get an Economy car, fit for 5 people, for as low as $109 for two days. 

Compare this to Enterprise, and you’re looking at spending around $150. Hertz, another big car rental company, is also more expensive, with a 2-day rental costing $130 for a basic economy vehicle. 

Where Can You Rent Through Costco Travel? 

Locations Car Rental, Unsplash

If you’re planning a trip inside or outside of the United States, have no fear as Costco Travel Car Rental programs are available in several countries. You can book a rental in the United States, Canada, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Scotland, Spain, Wales, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

To make it even easier, Costco’s rental program is incredibly flexible, allowing you to pick up your vehicle and drop it off at totally different locations. This might cost a bit more, but it’ll save you time and hassle in the long run. 

Rental Insurance Through Costco Travel Car Rental

A must-have when renting, whether through a larger company or Costco, is renter’s insurance. This will ensure you’re prepared for anything. Costco helps you save even more if you need insurance, offering affordable rates through Zurich.

This provides safety if you have a medical emergency, if your luggage doesn’t arrive, if you miss your plane due to a car accident, or if you get sick and can’t travel. 

Tips on Costco Travel Car Rentals

Convinced of Costco’s amazing car rental program? Here are a few tips to help you maximize your savings. 

  • Book early so you are ensured that you’re getting the best prices possible. The sooner the pickup dates are, the more expensive they can get. If you wait too long, the vehicles might all be rented out and you’ll be stuck paying a more expensive fee at another location. 
  • Try to avoid airport rentals. It’s more convenient, but it does come with more added fees, with many locations increasing their prices by 10% to 30%. Save even more money by grabbing a taxi to an off-airport location.
  • The primary driver has to be at least 21, not 25, to use the Costco Travel Car Rental program. While many locations expect you to be 25, the minimum age is not the same with Costco. While you’ll have to pay a surcharge if you’re under 25, usually around $25 a day, this can be helpful when planning trips for younger groups. 
  • Avoid expensive add-ons. Try to get the cheapest car you can manage when making your reservation. You can try to ask about free upgrades at the counter but don’t bank on it. And avoid the extra add-ons that they offer, as they’re trying to upsell you. Some will offer you an addition of a GPS or prepaid fuel, but it’s not usually worth it. 

Read More: Is There a Costco Membership Discount? Here Are the Member Prices and Discounts