How to Score Free Upgrades on Your Rental Car

24 August 2025

Have you ever walked up to the rental car counter, hoping for something a little fancier than what you booked? Maybe you dream of sliding into a luxury sedan instead of the compact car you reserved. Well, guess what? Scoring a free rental car upgrade isn’t just for the lucky few—it’s entirely possible if you know the right tricks!

Whether you're traveling for work or a long-awaited vacation, driving a better car without paying extra can make a huge difference. So, how can you land that sweet upgrade without breaking the bank? Stick around, and I'll spill the secrets that can turn your standard rental into a first-class ride.

1. Book the Cheapest Car, But Aim High

One of the easiest ways to get a free upgrade is to reserve the smallest, cheapest car available. Rental companies often overbook compact and economy cars because they’re in high demand. If they run out of those vehicles when you arrive, they might have no choice but to upgrade you to a bigger car—for free!

Think about it like airlines overbooking economy seats. When too many people check in, some lucky passengers get bumped up to business class. The same logic applies to rental cars.

Pro Tip:

Book an economy car during peak seasons when bigger vehicles get overstocked. Your chances of an automatic upgrade will skyrocket.

2. Timing is Everything: Pick the Right Time to Pick Up Your Car

If you show up at the rental counter during peak hours (like early mornings or weekdays), employees are swamped and less likely to negotiate upgrades. Instead, try picking up your car in the afternoon or evening when inventory is shifting, and they may be more willing to hand out upgrades to balance their fleet.

Best Times to Increase Your Upgrade Odds:

- Late afternoon or early evening
- Right before the rental office closes (fewer car options left)
- Midweek instead of weekends (fewer customers = more flexibility)

3. Join the Rental Company’s Loyalty Program

Most rental companies offer free loyalty programs, and joining can give you a massive edge. Members often get automatic upgrades or priority treatment. Plus, who doesn’t like a little VIP treatment?

Here are some of the best rental loyalty programs to sign up for:
- Hertz Gold Plus Rewards – Free upgrades and shorter wait times.
- Enterprise Plus – Earn points for free rentals, and higher tiers get perks.
- National Emerald Club – Choose your car directly (which may include better models).
- Avis Preferred – Skip the counter and get occasional upgrades.

Enrollment is free, and even basic-tier members have a better shot at complimentary upgrades than random walk-in customers.

4. Be Friendly and Just Ask

It sounds simple, but being polite, smiling, and asking nicely can work wonders. Car rental agents deal with impatient, demanding customers all day—so if you show up with a friendly attitude, you’re already ahead of the game.

Instead of demanding an upgrade, try something like:
"Hey, I was wondering if you have any complimentary upgrades available today? I’d really appreciate it!"

A little charm and kindness can go a long way. Remember, rental agents have the power to make or break your upgrade dreams.

Bonus Tip:

Mention a special occasion like a honeymoon or anniversary. Rental companies sometimes upgrade cars for free to add a little magic to your trip!

5. Rent from Locations Outside the Airport

Airport rental locations are incredibly busy, and employees don’t have much flexibility since inventory turnover is rapid. If you rent from a nearby neighborhood branch instead, they often have more cars sitting around and may be more willing to give you an upgrade just to move them off the lot.

How to Do This:
- Search for rental locations just outside the airport (Uber or taxi there).
- Look for "off-airport" branches on the rental company’s website.
- Call ahead and ask about upgrade availability.

The bonus? Off-airport locations often have lower rates and fewer hidden fees as well. Win-win!

6. Use Your Credit Card’s Perks

Did you know that some premium credit cards offer free rental car upgrades as a perk? If you have a travel-related credit card, you might already be eligible for an upgrade without needing to do anything extra.

For example:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve – Offers upgrades with rental partners.
- American Express Platinum – Provides elite rental status with Hertz, Avis, and National.
- World Elite Mastercard – Some cards include rental car perks.

Before you rent, check with your credit card provider to see if you get automatic upgrade privileges.

7. Book Through Websites or Apps That Offer Upgrades

Instead of using direct rental sites, try third-party booking platforms that throw in complimentary upgrades. Websites like:
- Costco Travel – Often includes free upgrades in rental deals.
- AutoSlash – Checks for discounts and promos on upgrades.
- Expedia/VIP Programs – Loyalty members sometimes get exclusive upgrade offers.

These platforms negotiate perks with rental companies, so you might land a deal without having to ask for it.

8. Check for Elite Status Matches

If you have elite status with a hotel chain, airline, or another travel program, some rental companies will match that status—which can lead to instant upgrades!

For instance:
- If you have Delta Medallion Status, National Car Rental gives you free Executive Status.
- If you're a Marriott Bonvoy Elite Member, you might get perks with Hertz.

Check online to see if your airline, hotel, or credit card status gets you rental car benefits.

9. Reserve Through Corporate or Discounted Rates

If you’re traveling for work—or if your employer has a partnership with a rental company—you might receive automatic free upgrades.

Even if you're not on a business trip, some organizations (like AAA, AARP, or Costco) offer special rental car perks. Look into these memberships before booking!

10. Keep an Eye on Flash Sales and Rental Promotions

Rental car companies frequently run limited-time offers where they provide free upgrades as a promotion. These are often listed on their websites or emailed to members.

Check for:
✔ Seasonal deals (e.g., summer road trip discounts)
✔ Referral programs that include a free upgrade
✔ Special promotions for new loyalty program sign-ups

If you have flexibility, waiting for one of these deals can help you snag that upgrade at no extra cost.

Final Thoughts: Drive in Style Without Paying Extra

Scoring a free car rental upgrade isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. With a little planning, the right timing, and a friendly smile, you can boost your chances of cruising around in a much better car than you originally booked.

To recap, here’s how to improve your chances:
✅ Book the cheapest car (but expect an upgrade)
✅ Pick up your car at the right time
✅ Join rental loyalty programs
✅ Be friendly and simply ask
✅ Avoid airport rental locations
✅ Use credit card perks
✅ Leverage third-party booking sites
✅ Match elite status for better rental privileges
✅ Take advantage of corporate discounts
✅ Watch for flash sales and promotions

Next time you’re renting a car, put these tips to the test—you might just find yourself driving away in a shiny new upgrade for free!