First things first-how can you find a cheap rental car in San Fransisco? The first factor to consider is the price of the vehicle. Economy and compact cars may not be as spacious or as “loaded” as some of the pricier options. However, tourists trying to save a buck can attest that these cars are mechanically solid. If the emphasis of your vacation is on fun and not on impressing someone with a mean ride, then maybe an economy car is worth the extra savings.

Even if you’re opting for the standard or premium selection, there are still a few tips that can help you find a cheaper rental car in San Fransisco. Book your rental dates long in advance and do a thorough search of every rental company in the area. None of these prices are standardized and companies charge whatever customers are willing to pay. By doing a comparison search of a rental car in San Fransisco between companies like Avis, Budget, Enterprise and Thrifty, you may find some unexpected savings.

The next point to keep in mind is flexibility. You may have already heard that flexibility can save you money on airfare. The same is true of rental fare, though the process works in a different way. You may be able to save on a rental car in San Fransisco by booking a date exclusively on the weekend. Expect savings up to 50% or more when you order a weekend rental, or savings comparable whenever you book a full week. Paying for a rental car in San Fransisco by the weekday is the most expensive way to travel.

Find out what extra features are worth paying for in the next article.