Choosing the right car rental company can significantly enhance your travel experience, especially if you are a frequent traveler. A key factor to consider is the loyalty program offered by these companies. But with so many options available, determining Which Car Rental Company Has The Best Loyalty Program can be challenging. This article dives deep into comparing some of the top car rental loyalty programs to help you make an informed decision.
When evaluating car rental loyalty programs, several factors come into play. These include the ease of earning points, the value of redemption options, the tiers of membership and associated benefits, and the overall customer experience. Let’s explore some of the leading programs and see how they stack up.
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards is a popular choice, known for its simplicity and valuable benefits. Members earn points for every qualifying rental, which can be redeemed for free rental days, experiences, and more. One of the standout features is the ability to bypass the counter at many locations, offering a faster and more convenient pickup process. Higher tiers within the program unlock additional perks such as bonus points, vehicle upgrades, and dedicated customer service lines.
Avis Preferred
Avis Preferred offers a streamlined rental process and a range of benefits that grow as you rent more frequently. Similar to Hertz, Avis Preferred members can often skip the counter and go directly to their car. The program allows you to earn points or airline miles with partner airlines, providing flexibility in how you are rewarded. Avis also frequently offers promotions and bonus point opportunities, enhancing the value of the program.
Enterprise Plus
Enterprise Plus is the loyalty program for Enterprise Rent-A-Car. It’s a straightforward program where you earn points on qualifying rentals which can be used towards free rental days. Enterprise Plus is particularly appealing due to the wide network of Enterprise locations, making it accessible for many travelers. Elite status within Enterprise Plus provides bonus points and priority service, rewarding frequent renters.
National Emerald Club
National Car Rental’s Emerald Club is often lauded for its flexibility and perks, especially at airport locations. Emerald Club members can bypass the counter and choose any car from the Emerald Aisle (for midsize car bookings and above), offering greater control over vehicle selection. Points are earned on rentals and can be redeemed for free days. Higher tiers like Emerald Executive and Executive Elite offer guaranteed upgrades and even more choices in vehicle selection.
Budget Fastbreak
Budget Fastbreak focuses on speed and convenience. While perhaps not as feature-rich as some other programs, Fastbreak allows members to expedite the rental process significantly. Budget also partners with various airlines and hotels, allowing members to earn miles or points with partner programs alongside Budget Bucks, which can be used for rental discounts.
Comparing the Programs: Which is Best?
Determining which car rental company has the best loyalty program ultimately depends on your individual travel needs and preferences.
- For Speed and Convenience: Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, Avis Preferred, and National Emerald Club are strong contenders, offering counter bypass and expedited service.
- For Flexibility in Car Choice: National Emerald Club stands out with its Emerald Aisle benefit.
- For Value and Rewards: Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise all offer solid point redemption options for free rental days. Consider which program’s partners align best with your other travel loyalty programs for maximizing rewards.
- For Budget-Conscious Travelers: Budget Fastbreak provides a simpler, value-oriented program with opportunities for discounts and partner rewards.
Conclusion
There isn’t a single “best” car rental loyalty program, as the ideal choice varies based on individual priorities. If you value speed and car selection, National Emerald Club might be your top pick. If you prefer a straightforward program with solid rewards, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards or Avis Preferred are excellent choices. For budget-conscious renters, Enterprise Plus and Budget Fastbreak offer valuable benefits. Carefully consider your travel habits and preferences when deciding which car rental company has the best loyalty program for you. By comparing the features and benefits of each program, you can select the one that best enhances your rental experience and rewards your loyalty.
