Good car rental experience
I have booked a car rental at the Kona airport with Budget and now I see a better price with either Thrifty or Dollar. BUT i see all of these companies get really bad reviews on Trip Advisor for this location.
Is there a car rental company that consistently provides a good car and good service?
It's understandable to be cautious when booking a rental car, especially after seeing negative reviews about specific companies. The car rental experience can vary significantly depending on the location, time of year, and even the individual branch’s management. That said, here are some tips and recommendations based on the experience of past visitors to the Kona airport (KOA):
### Popular Car Rental Companies at Kona (KOA):
- Alamo: Alamo tends to have better reviews for service and vehicle quality compared to some other rental companies at Kona. They are known for offering good customer service and quick pick-up/drop-off times. Many travelers have reported a smooth experience with no hidden fees and clean, well-maintained cars.
- Enterprise: Enterprise is another reliable choice for car rentals at Kona airport. They are often praised for their customer service and hassle-free rental process. Enterprise also has a reputation for having a well-maintained fleet of vehicles and flexible options for pick-up and drop-off times.
- National: National is another solid choice, offering a good selection of vehicles and a reputation for consistent service. Many customers appreciate their “Emerald Aisle” program, which allows you to choose your car from a selection of vehicles, offering more flexibility and convenience.
### Other Options to Consider:
- Hawaiian Car Rentals: This is a local, smaller company with a reputation for providing personalized service. They may not have as many vehicles as the bigger chains, but many customers appreciate the attention to detail and the more relaxed process, often avoiding long lines and upsells.
- Thrifty and Dollar: While these companies often have the most competitive rates, reviews for their Kona branches can be hit-or-miss, with some customers experiencing long wait times, poor customer service, or unclear charges at the end of the rental. However, there are also positive reviews, so it can be worth checking for any recent feedback on specific dates or booking conditions.
### Tips for a Better Rental Experience:
- Check for Hidden Fees: Make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid unexpected fees. For example, some companies may charge for extra insurance or a one-way rental fee if you're picking up and dropping off at the same location.
- Book in Advance: Booking your car rental ahead of time can often help secure a better rate and minimize the chances of arriving and finding no available cars or higher prices.
- Consider Off-Airport Rentals: While this requires a bit more coordination with transportation, some off-airport rental locations tend to offer better customer service and slightly better prices than the airport locations.
- Inspect the Car: Before driving off, inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and take pictures. This can help avoid disputes over damage charges later.
In general, while Kona has a few rental companies with mixed reviews, Alamo and Enterprise are your best bets if you're looking for reliability and good service. If you're willing to consider a local company like Hawaiian Car Rentals, you may get a more personalized experience.
Good luck, and enjoy your trip to Kona!
