Group travel offers great memories, but the costs can add up quickly, especially when it comes to transportation. Renting a Tempo Traveller for your group travel is a convenient option, providing comfort and space for everyone. However, without proper planning, it can become expensive. In this guide, we’ll discuss ways to save on Tempo Traveller rent without compromising on your group’s comfort and convenience.

Book in Advance

One of the simplest ways to save on Tempo Traveller rent is by booking in advance. When you book early, you have more options and access to lower rates. Waiting until the last minute usually means paying a premium because fewer vehicles are available.

Start planning your trip at least two to three months ahead if possible. This gives you time to compare prices, find deals, and lock in lower rates before they increase due to high demand.

Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Travelling during off-peak seasons can result in significant savings. During holiday seasons, weekends, and festive times, demand for Tempo Travellers increases, and so do the prices. However, during weekdays or off-peak months, when fewer people are travelling, companies lower their prices to attract customers.

If your group is flexible with travel dates, consider travelling during off-peak periods to save on rent.

Compare Different Rental Companies

Not all Tempo Traveller rental companies offer the same prices, services, or quality of vehicles. To get the best deal, compare the rates of different companies. You can do this by calling the companies directly, checking their websites, or using online booking platforms.

When comparing, make sure you consider factors like vehicle condition, inclusions like fuel and driver fees, and customer reviews. Sometimes, paying a bit more for a reliable company saves you money in the long run by avoiding issues like breakdowns or hidden fees.

Choose the Right Size of Tempo Traveller

Tempo Travellers come in different sizes, typically seating between 9 to 26 people. It’s important to rent the right size vehicle based on your group size. Renting a larger Tempo Traveller than needed means paying for extra seats that you won’t use, which increases your cost.

Before booking, confirm how many people will be travelling. If your group consists of 9 to 12 people, a smaller Tempo Traveller will be more cost-effective. For larger groups of 18 to 26 people, opt for a bigger vehicle to accommodate everyone without having to rent multiple vehicles.

Negotiate the Rental Price

Many people forget that rental prices are often negotiable. After researching and finding a few rental companies, don’t hesitate to negotiate the price. Contact the companies, mention any lower quotes you’ve found, and ask if they can match or beat the price.

Most rental companies prefer to fill their vehicles at a slightly lower rate than leave them idle, so you have a good chance of getting a discount by simply asking.

Opt for One-Way Trips

If you’re travelling to a destination and staying there for a few days, consider opting for a one-way rental. Many companies offer the option to drop off the vehicle at your destination and arrange a return pickup later. This can save you money since you won’t have to pay for the vehicle to sit unused while you’re at your destination.

Ask the rental company if they offer one-way trips or drop-off services. Just ensure the return transportation for your group is arranged.

Avoid Additional Add-Ons

Rental companies often offer add-ons like GPS, extra drivers, or entertainment systems for an additional fee. While these add-ons may seem convenient, they can quickly increase your overall rental cost.

Before agreeing to any extras, consider if your group needs them. For example, most smartphones have GPS, so there’s no need to pay for a separate system. Similarly, you may not need an extra driver if your trip is short and doesn’t require long hours of driving.

Keep the Trip Short and Simple

The length and complexity of your trip affect the rental price. Longer trips usually mean higher costs because of fuel, driver allowances, and wear and tear on the vehicle. If you want to save, keep your trip short and simple.

Plan an itinerary that minimizes the distance travelled and reduces the number of stops. This can also make your trip more enjoyable by giving your group more time at each destination rather than spending hours on the road.

Share the Cost Among Group Members

Splitting the cost of the Tempo Traveller among all group members is one of the easiest ways to reduce individual expenses. The more people in your group, the less each person will have to pay.

Before the trip, calculate the total cost of the rental, fuel, and driver fees, and divide it among the group. This way, everyone knows their share and can contribute accordingly, ensuring that the cost burden isn’t placed on just one or two people.

Look for Discounts or Promotions

Many rental companies offer discounts or promotions, especially if you’re booking online or through a third-party platform. These discounts may be seasonal or offered to new customers.

Check the rental company’s website for any current promotions, or contact them directly to ask if they have any special offers. You can also look for coupon codes online that apply to your rental.

Plan for Fuel Costs

Fuel is a significant expense when renting a Tempo Traveller. Some companies include fuel in the rental price, while others require you to pay for it separately. To save on fuel, plan your route carefully to avoid unnecessary detours and long distances.

If you need to refuel during the trip, look for gas stations with lower prices. Apps and online tools can help you find the cheapest fuel options in your area. Keeping fuel costs low will reduce the overall cost of your trip.

Hire a Local Rental Company

National or international rental companies often charge more because they have higher operational costs. However, local rental companies usually offer more competitive rates and personalized service.

Look for local companies in the area where you plan to start your trip. Local companies are more familiar with the roads and routes, which can also make your trip smoother.

Use an Online Booking Platform

Online booking platforms often offer better rates than booking directly through the company. These platforms allow you to compare multiple rental companies at once and find the best deal for your group.

Some platforms also offer special deals or cashback offers, which can further reduce your rental cost. Just make sure to read the reviews of the rental companies to ensure you’re getting a reliable service.

Avoid Last-Minute Cancellations

Last-minute cancellations can lead to extra fees, reducing any savings you might have made on the rental price. Once you’ve confirmed your booking, try to stick to the planned dates to avoid cancellation fees.

If something comes up and you need to cancel or change the booking, contact the rental company as early as possible. Many companies offer free changes or cancellations if you give them enough notice.

Drive Responsibly

Speeding or reckless driving can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the vehicle, leading to potential damage fees. It can also increase fuel consumption, adding to your overall costs.

To avoid this, drive responsibly and stick to the speed limit. This will keep your trip safe and help you save on fuel and avoid any damage penalties.

Conclusion

Renting a Tempo Traveller for group travel can be an affordable and comfortable option if you plan wisely. By booking in advance, travelling during off-peak seasons, and comparing rental companies, you can find the best deals. Negotiating prices, opting for one-way trips, and sharing the costs among your group will also help reduce your expenses. Keep the trip simple, avoid unnecessary add-ons, and plan for fuel costs to ensure you stay within your budget.

With these tips, you can enjoy a great group travel experience without breaking the bank. Happy travels!