When planning a trip, getting the best deal for your rental car is essential. That’s why many travelers turn to Priceline, the online travel booking platform that lets you search and compare prices from multiple rental car companies. However, if you’ve ever booked a rental car on Priceline, you may have come across the term “double shuttle” and wondered what it means. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the double shuttle on Priceline, including what it is, how it works, and the pros and cons of using it. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time user of Priceline, this guide will help you make the most informed choice when booking your next rental car.
What is Priceline?
Priceline is an online travel booking platform that allows you to search and compare prices for flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages. Founded in 1997, Priceline has become a popular choice for travelers looking for the best deals on their trips. Priceline’s platform lets you search for rental cars by location, dates, and car type, and then compares prices from multiple rental car companies. This allows you to quickly and easily find the best deal for your needs.
One of the key benefits of using Priceline is its “Name Your Own Price” feature, which allows you to bid on a rental car and potentially save even more money. With this feature, you can specify the location, dates, and car type you want, and then make an offer on a rental car. If your offer is accepted, you’ll receive the rental car at the price you bid, which can often be significantly lower than the standard rate.
What is Double Shuttle?
Double shuttle refers to the process of taking two shuttle buses to get to your rental car at the airport. When you book a rental car on Priceline, you may be offered the option of a double shuttle if the rental car company is located off-site from the airport. In this case, you’ll first take a shuttle bus from the airport terminal to the rental car company’s off-site location. Then, once you’ve picked up your rental car, you’ll need to take a second shuttle bus back to the airport to continue your trip.
Pros and Cons of Double Shuttle
Like any travel option, the double shuttle has its pros and cons. One of the main advantages of using a double shuttle is that it can be significantly cheaper than renting a car directly from the airport. Off-site rental car companies often have lower prices than on-site companies, and the double shuttle process can help you save even more.
However, there are also some downsides to using a double shuttle. The most obvious is the inconvenience of having to take two shuttle buses to get to your rental car. This can add significant time to your travel day, especially if you’re in a rush or have a lot of luggage. Additionally, if the shuttle buses are delayed or overcrowded, it can make the process even more frustrating.
Another potential downside of the double shuttle is that it may not be available at all airports or for all rental car companies. If you’re looking for the cheapest rental car option, the double shuttle may not be available for your desired location, dates, or car type.
How to Book a Double Shuttle Rental on Priceline
If you’ve decided that a double shuttle rental is the best option for your needs, booking through Priceline is a straightforward process. First, begin by visiting Priceline’s rental car search page and entering your pickup and drop-off location, dates, and car type. You can then filter your results by selecting the “off-airport” option to see which rental car companies offer off-site locations. From there, you’ll be able to see which rental car companies offer double shuttles as an option.
When selecting your rental car company, make sure to read the details carefully to understand what the double shuttle process entails. Some rental car companies may require you to call for the second shuttle after you’ve picked up your rental car, while others may have a scheduled shuttle service. It’s important to note that double shuttle rentals may not be available for all car types or at all locations.
Once you’ve selected your rental car company, you can book your rental car through Priceline’s platform. During the checkout process, you’ll be given the option to select the double shuttle service. Make sure to carefully review the terms and conditions, as well as any fees associated with the service.
Alternatives to Double Shuttle
While a double shuttle can be a cost-effective option for renting a car from the airport, there are some alternatives to consider. One alternative is to rent directly from the on-site rental car companies at the airport. While this option may be more expensive, it can be more convenient since you won’t need to take a shuttle to get to your rental car.
Another alternative is to rent from a rental car company with an on-site location that offers a complimentary shuttle service. Some rental car companies offer shuttle services from the airport to their on-site location, which can be a good compromise between cost and convenience. Additionally, some airports have rental car companies that are located within walking distance of the terminal, eliminating the need for a shuttle altogether.
Tips for Using Double Shuttle
If you’ve decided that a double shuttle is the best option for your needs, there are some tips to keep in mind to make the process as smooth as possible. First, make sure to factor in the additional time needed to take the two shuttle buses when planning your travel day. It’s always better to be early than to risk missing your flight.
Additionally, make sure to check the rental car company’s shuttle schedule in advance, and plan accordingly. If the shuttle only runs at certain times or has limited capacity, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss it. You may also want to consider calling the rental car company in advance to confirm the details of the double shuttle process.
Finally, be prepared for the possibility of delays or complications with the shuttle service. It’s not uncommon for shuttles to run behind schedule or for the process to be more time-consuming than expected. If you’re on a tight schedule, consider leaving extra time in case of any unforeseen issues.
In conclusion, while double shuttle rentals may not be the most convenient option for renting a car from the airport, they can be a cost-effective choice. By understanding what double shuttle is, how to book it through Priceline, and some tips for using it, you can make the most informed choice for your travel needs. If you’re still unsure about whether the double shuttle is right for you, consider the alternatives and weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your decision.
Customer Reviews of Double Shuttle on Priceline
When it comes to customer reviews of the double shuttle on Priceline, opinions are mixed. Some customers have reported a smooth and efficient process, with minimal wait times for the shuttles. Others, however, have reported long wait times for the shuttles, confusion about the process, and frustration with the additional time needed to get to their rental car.
One common theme among negative reviews is that customers feel that the additional time and inconvenience of taking two shuttles is not worth the cost savings. Some customers have reported that the difference in price between the double shuttle and on-site rentals is not significant enough to justify the added hassle.
However, it’s worth noting that some customers have had positive experiences with double shuttle rentals, finding them to be a good value and a convenient way to get a rental car from the airport. As with any rental car option, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and read customer reviews carefully before making a decision.
Double Shuttle vs. Other Rental Car Options: Which is Best?
When it comes to choosing between the double shuttle and other rental car options, the decision ultimately comes down to your priorities. If cost is your top concern and you’re willing to trade some convenience for savings, the double shuttle may be the best choice for you. However, if convenience is more important, you may want to consider renting directly from an on-site rental car company or choosing a rental car company with a complimentary shuttle service.
Another factor to consider is the reliability of the shuttle service. While some customers have reported smooth and efficient experiences with the double shuttle, others have reported long wait times and frustration with the process. If you’re on a tight schedule or value predictability in your travel plans, you may want to choose a rental car option with a more reliable shuttle service or an on-site location.
Conclusion
The double shuttle can be a cost-effective way to rent a car from the airport, but it’s not without its drawbacks. By understanding what double shuttle is, how it works, and the pros and cons of using it, you can make the most informed decision for your travel needs. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or simply looking for the most convenient option, Priceline’s platform can help you find the rental car that’s right for you.