A few easy car rental steps can save money and the environment

As the peak summer travel season fast approaches and as people in Europe and North America get ready rent cars and go on road trips, travel experts are reminding them that by taking just a few extra steps, they may be able to do something positive for the environment, while also getting a chance to save some money along the way. One of the smartest tips for rental clients this summer is to jettison gas guzzling full-size rental vehicles and SUVs, replacing them instead with far more fuel efficient hybrid cars. All major car rental firms in the US now offer hybrids, and by far the most popular among these vehicles is the Toyota Prius, which manages to maintain comfort, while also keeping the fuel bill down to a minimum. The car emits far less carbon into the atmosphere as more traditional vehicles, thus limiting this industry’s negative effect on the environment. Those , however, who may be willing to go the extra step for the environment and do a little more for nature can take part in the carbon off-set scheme offered by all rental giants. By paying a nominal fee on top of each car hire-which usually does not exceed $2-$3-firms will match this amount and then reinvest this money in a series of green initiatives.

Another way to save on petrol, time, as well as the environment is to rent a GPS satellite navigation unit. Although doing so will normally incur an additional cost, it is usually well worth it in the end, as clients will be far less likely to make a wrong turn or get lost along the way. This will cut down on one’s fuel bill, as well as save the driver time during a vacation. All major rental firms offer GPS units in both North America and Western Europe.