Online Travel Booking and Bidding Agencies - Upgrading a Priceline Car Rental

Booked a car rental through Priceline for HNL next month.

Got a great rate w/National.

Unfortunately, I was apparently not at the top of my game when I put in my bid, royally screwed up and put in for a subcompact (for a family of four). ARGGH! :mad:

Has anyone ever upgraded either through Priceline or through the vendor? Or any ideas on how I may be able to accomplish this without paying through the nose?

1. Do you really need a bigger car in HNL when you can't drive very far anyway?
2. When you arrive, find out if they are actually going to give you the subcompact because they usually run out and give you a complimentary upgrade. They will try to upsell rather than answer this but be persisent.
3. If they don't comp you then ask what they are willing to sell you. They will bill you for the difference.
4. Some of the subcompacts are actually more spacious than many compact or midsize models.
5. If there is a second driver, National will add a fee on for that privilege.

I have often upgraded my priceline autos at the airport. The advise from B1 is right on.

Does anyone have specific experience with the National at HNL? Last time in Vegas, the guy at the desk checked me out a compact, but when I got to the lot (they let you choose your own cars), there were no compacts left, so I ended up driving out a mid-size -- i.e., information might be useful as to when FLYINBELLS needs to ask for an upgrade instead of just hoping they've run out.

Does anyone have specific experience with the National at HNL? Last time in Vegas, the guy at the desk checked me out a compact, but when I got to the lot (they let you choose your own cars), there were no compacts left, so I ended up driving out a mid-size -- i.e., information might be useful as to when FLYINBELLS needs to ask for an upgrade instead of just hoping they've run out.

same with me at FLL pick any car in lot (national)

When renting a PL car one should ALWAYS rent a subcompact or economy car and upgrade at the counter. The counter people have great authority to haggle, at NatAmo they generally have a printed list behind the counter (read it upside-down) of what today's upgrade availability and prices are. Of course, at NatAmo you get to pick from the available cars in your class, so be sure and eyeball the parking lot before you approach the counter (in case they are out of your type and you would get a free upgrade anyway).