The next time you are on vacation or business, forget using taxis and use a budget car rental instead; being able to step out of the hotel room with a car ready and waiting at any time, can't be beaten! The one thing you don't want though is to be lumbered with a car that sounds like your lawnmower. Well maybe not that bad, but sometimes, well most of the time, the people that assist you in car rentals just doesn't have your best interest in mind, so you end up paying a truckload of money for a pool of frustrations. So, just to help with your rental car experience, I have made a written down a few pointers to help.If you're not choosy about what car you rent, try to get your budget car rental through sites that let you choose cars at your own price. Often the site will not only get you the best deal but may even throw in an unlimited mileage just to get the deal. Look for package deals, fly-drive-stay, or fly-drive, most of these packages give great discounts for rentals, but don't do it with an airline. Unfortunately, airlines although convenient aren't really the more economic way to go, their car rental prices are hardly budget, and tend to be higher than those of outside firms.If you are not used to arranging budget car rental on the internet, do not let that put you off as you will be pleasantly surprised by the offers available. You will often find that there are discounts and extras available but only from the company's web site. Aside from that you can easily get upgrades and depending on the season, at least one rental company is bound to have a special offer that can help you save money. In addition to that, you can rent a car in the comfort of your own home, now beat that!Another thing to ask is whether your credit card company has negotiated special discounts with the budget car rental company you are going to use. The frequent flyer program is still available or perhaps you are a member of an organization that has preferential rates arranged.You would be wise to inspect your rental car before you drive off as you may find minor collision damage from previous renters which you do not want to pay for when you return. For you own peace of mind and financial well-being, check out all the  vehicles controls  and make sure everything that is fitted works so you won't have to pay for something that was faulty when you drove it away.</P. One other thing to remember is to check your vehicle insurance policy as you will more than likely find that it provides rental car insurance cover so that's another saving. Why pay for rental car insurance when your own auto insurance policy will cover some of the aspects, even if it isn't a great deal; whatever the situation, insurance is always required when you rent a car.Always make sure you have auto insurance as the penalties for driving without adequate cover are severe.