Originally Posted by
Foxtbh
I don't get why rental firms don't instantly end this problem by requiring a non-refundable deposit for everyone except Elites or something. When I rent I rent on a fully prepaid reservation - I've paid up front. I'd be livid if there was no car for me - they've often had my money months prior to pickup.
If I changed my mind 30 seconds before pickup I'd expect them to take money from me for the inconvenience - I'm amazed they don't. Hotel's and Airlines certainly do unless on a high cost flex rate.
Well, and there you go. If we want the flexibility of not having any commitment to the rental car company, then they also have that ability of lack of commitment. Rental car companies are the odd-ball out with this ability to have reservations that are not held with any form of payment, and customers typically can no-show without penalty. I am sure if the car rental companies went the way of the airlines/hotels with booking requirements, then they would be held to a higher standard of guaranteed car availability.