iahphx

Is there anything more annoying than trying to get a decent rate on a one-way car rental? Well, in the travel world, probably not. I usually need one-way rentals a few times a year and, most times, I wind up spending more time than I'd like trolling the web for discount codes that might unlock the secret to an affordable rental.

Some of the flyertalk car rental threads including codes that work for one-way rentals, but they're buried in more general discussions. And, frankly, when it comes to a one-way rental, you're probably not going to be brand loyal: you just want to use the company that will give you the best deal.

So, if others are interested, I thought I'd start this compilation of the best one-way car rental codes. Some of them are clearly public codes, and some are more questionable (but can result in great savings). Also, watch for any mileage charges. When using these codes, your mileage may vary. Literally.


I'll start, and if there's sufficient interest, I'll try to periodically update this post as a summary. Happy hunting.

ONE WAY CODES THAT HAVE WORKED:

AVIS

A686200 (Priceline code)
A972200 (Farmers)
A074800 (Citi leisure travel)
G930700 (IBM)

BUDGET

W852800 (Costco)

HERTZ

1757580 (Car & Driver readers)

NATIONAL

Warning: National is now more stringently checking qualifications to use these codes. You may be questioned at the counter. See post # 129 for more information.

[CODES REMOVED BECAUSE NATIONAL'S LAWYERS HAVE DEMANDED THEY BE REMOVED]

THRIFTY

004M001010 (Orlando Magiccard corporate discount -- works elsewhere On Dollar site, it's oi1054)

UA Fan

Thanks for this link. I also noted the same problem as you.

iahphx

I'm a bit surprised this thread hasn't generated more interest. Heck, I keep consulting it myself when I need to make one-way car rentals reservations for myself and friends/family.

I've got another Hertz number to add: 1813168. Reportedly Car & Truck magazine (never heard of it). It can get you a lower base rate than the Car & Driver number above, but watch for potential per mile charges.

And I'd love to see folks add their own discounts. Having all the one-way codes in one place certainly makes it easier for me. Thanks.

SkiAdcock

I had to do a 1-way car rental recently (still cost me $306 ) & Budget gave me the Costco rate saying it was the best.

Cheers.

iahphx

Does anyone have any codes to add? I can't believe I'm the only one who finds it useful to have this info in one place.

nd2010

Look out for offers in the fall to drive rental cars to Florida.

A few years ago I wanted to visit SC on short notice (I live in NJ) and I found flights were over $400. I got a rental for the weekend for $50 total from PHL, with the condition that I had to drive it to Florida. I found a flight from JAX-EWR for less than $100 one way. So I drove to SC, then dropped off the car in JAX. That saved me a lot of money, I had a car in South Carolina, and didn't need to make the long drive back to NJ. Saved over $200 if I would have flown EWR-CHS round trip and rented a car at CHS.

syndney

This has been very helpful to me!! I was using the National code 5026639 which is for TDB Publications.

I tried the other National one you had posted and the Big 10 one beat mine by $50.00!!!

What is your experience with id checks for the Big 10 code?

iahphx

The Big Ten code is truly fantastic for one-way rentals. I've used it seven or eight times without trouble; I do try to Emerald Aisle it, but I have also used it at the counter. I've never been asked for ID. It seems to be a negotiated rate for Big Ten schools. Ohio State says it can be used by "faculty and staff, including immediate family (spouse and children residing in the same household), retirees and their spouses, on university business and personal rentals." So if you say your spouse is an Ohio state employee or retiree, what ID would you have? I wish it didn't include the insurance, though, just in case.

syndney

I figured I would use the Emerald Aisle to be safe! Heck, I'm an Ohio State Alumnus. Close enough huh?

So you can't decline the insurance on this?

iahphx

Darn that's close: bring an alumni card if you have one, I guess.

I don't really know how you decline insurance on one of these rates. I really prefer when it's not included.

BP0817

Thank you for posting these one way codes. The Big 10 rate was the best deal. I don't have an ID card so I hope it works! Thanks again!

syndney

FWIW....I was never asked for ID. Did not use the emerald aisle and had no issues.

phoenixstar

Thank you OP! Trying the Big 10 code soon as well. Will report back with results.

phoenixstar

No problems what-so-ever with Big 10 Code, even using a location with Emerald Booth service. Very pleased. Thanks again OP for the code. ^

iahphx

Glad it worked for you. That rate is often a great solution to a one-way rental rate "problem." I used it last month in Louisiana where the alternative was about $60 more per day.