Prepaid gas: Every rental car comes with a full tank of gas, but it's the renter's responsibility to return the vehicle with an equally full tank.

Some rental car agencies offer a statewide pass for toll lanes and will bill your credit card upon return.

Prepaid tolls: Prepaying toll costs allows drivers to take express lanes and avoid backups on highways, toll roads, over bridges or through tunnels.

Some rental companies allow renters to prepay expected costs. When driving a rental car, tolls, gas, parking violations and other fees are the responsibility of the driver, which can add to the total cost. Beware of surge pricing before you agree to the ride.

By-the-ride: Fare estimators are on the app for each service, giving you the most accurate fare estimates directly to your location.

Car share programs include gas and insurance and usually have a membership fee.

Hourly: Drive cars by the hour or day.

Check company websites for the best rates. If any of the rental days are weekdays, be sure to ask about special weekday rates. Weekday pricing: The price of a rental car often goes up over the weekend.Ask about employee discounts, convention rates, group pricing and other discount programs before confirming a rental. Programs and discounts: Companies that have loyalty programs may offer special promotions or have discounted rates for those employed by partner companies.Holidays and special event weekends may not be included. Always ask about weekly rentals, since the cost of a weekly may be less than a five-day rental. Long-term rates: Many companies offer a deep discount on the daily rate when you rent a vehicle for a week or more.

Look for rental deals without hidden fees by checking online discount sites and the company’s website. The average cost to rent a car can vary dramatically depending on duration, date, discounts, loyalty programs and location.

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