Rented a car from BWI to DCA a couple weeks back. Since the car was rented in haste due to an urgency, had someone go to orbitz.com and book a rate for 20.99 on an economy car.

The pickup was 1115P and was to be dropped off at DCA the next day before 1115P...also, I am a preferred member, so got my little upgrade.

Next night, dropped off the car at 1115P and discovered the return lanes were not manned at that hour...directed to the counter where a lazy, half asleep agent said the computers were down and to leave the paperwork for her. Yeah right. I made her sign the rental card that I had returned the car and made her specify the date and time of the moment. She called the guy in the booth at the return lanes who verified the car was there in good condition.

Fast forward...I see the charge on my credit card, and discover it's $68, not the $28 they were suppose to charge, and the rate had gone up by $2. A login to Avis to look at the rental contract shows the car booked back at 6AM, and an extra-day charge (plus taxes/fees). Made inquiries to Avis without any response back.

Needless to say, I have disputed the charge with the CC company, and will expect Avis to properly refund the over-charge.

Result of the story - always check your credit card billings/invoices against the summary of expected charges on your contract to make sure there are no "shenanigans" going on.