Keep rental car costs to a minimum

Renting a car when you're on vacation should be an easy process, but if you're not careful, you could find yourself driven toward extra fees and strict policies.

If you're a member of airline frequent-flier programs, chances are you receive money-saving offers. The daily rate you're quoted, however, won't include taxes and fees, or optional insurance or gas-refill offers.

Also keep in mind that larger vehicles such as SUVs use much more gas and cost more to insure than smaller rental cars. Yet sometimes SUVs and pickups are offered at a discount. Also, when making a reservation, always ask about special rates or discounts.

These tips will help you save when renting a car in any city:

--Buying optional loss damage waiver insurance covers all damage to the vehicle, with no deductible. But the cost can double or even triple the daily rate, so choose carefully. Many renters are covered automatically when they use a major credit card, or already have a homeowner's or auto policy.

--Make sure you understand the gas choices. Some companies require you to return the rental with a full tank, while others allow you the convenience of prepaying for gas, usually at a higher rate than you might find yourself, and returning the car with a nearly empty tank. If you agree to refill and don't, you could be billed as much as $7 a gallon.