Is your next family vacation coming up? Depending on where you're traveling, you may need to rely on transportation to get you around to different destinations. Public transportation is helpful but it isn't always reliable. On the other hand, taking your own car is often a trip you don't want to do between the cost of gas and the time spent on the road. Luckily, there is a third option that falls between the two: renting a car. If you've never rented a car before, use these tips to ensure you get the most out of it.

Consider the Insurance Options

While you don't need to have your own insurance policy to rent a car, choosing to use the rental company's policy could end up costing you a pretty penny, especially if you get into an accident with the car. If you can, use your own auto insurance policy for the rental car that you use. Typically, your agency will provide the same amount of coverage for a rental that it does for your everyday car. It's always a good idea to look closely at the fine print, especially when the rental company asks you if you'd like to sign the collision damage waiver. If you don't sign it, you could end up spending much more in the event of an accident.

Use Comparison Tools

It's important to shop around when you're looking to rent a car. There are many different companies and while they may look competitively priced on the surface, the fine print matters. When comparing prices, consider whether one service charges much more than the other if you're late (what if there's traffic when you're returning the car?), for example. Comparison tools allow you to compare not only by price but by pickup location, the type of car that you wish to rent, and so on. Some places even offer incentives and rewards programs, so consider those while determining which rental option will best fit your budget. As a rule of thumb, it's always a good idea to skip renting at the airport. What you'll win in convenience, you'll more than pay for in prices.

Book Your Rental Far in Advance

Like most other types of travel needs, the further in advance you book a rental car, the more likely you are to save on the price. When you nail down the dates that you plan to travel and start booking flights or hotels, that's also when you should book your rental car. This also helps to ensure that you get the car you want and don't end up with a gas guzzler or something that is too small for your family to fit in comfortably.

Stick To One Driver

Typically, it's a good idea to stick to one driver on the rental car. Most companies charge a fee of $10 or more per day per extra driver. That means if you plan to split the driving between two parents for a week, you could be charged $70 or more on top of what you're already paying for the rental itself. If you absolutely need a second driver, ask what the company can provide. Some will waive the fees for a spouse or domestic partner as long as you both have the same address on your driver's licenses. Sometimes, memberships such as AAA help to cut down on the cost of an extra driver as well. Remember, you'll also pay extra if one of the drivers is under the age of 25.

Skip the Extras

Much like salespeople will try to upsell you when you buy a car, they'll try to do it when you rent one. If you truly want to save money, skip all the extras. Use the roadside assistance options that you already have, skip satellite radio in favor of your Spotify account, and use your phone if you need GPS navigation.

Renting a car has plenty of benefits when you're on vacation. You'll be able to get around to destinations on time, will have plenty of comfort when riding with the family, and will always have a vehicle should an emergency arise. By researching thoroughly, comparing prices, and booking in advance, you are more likely to get a good deal.