Buy Your Entertainment Book !
One of the most overlooked yet powerful tools for securing a cheap car rental is purchasing an Entertainment® Membership. While the iconic thick paper books of the past have largely transitioned into a sleek digital app, the value remains substantial. For a small annual or monthly fee—often as low as $4.99—you gain access to a dedicated travel portal that features “private” rates not available to the general public. These rates are specifically negotiated between the membership provider and major rental brands, often bypassing the price hikes seen on popular comparison sites.
The primary benefit of this membership is the sheer scale of its partnerships with industry giants like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Enterprise. Members frequently enjoy up to 25% off base rates, which can translate into hundreds of dollars in savings on a week-long road trip. Beyond the flat percentage discount, the membership often includes exclusive “stackable” coupons. These might include offers for a free car class upgrade, a free weekend day, or even $20–$50 off a long-term rental, allowing you to drive a premium vehicle for the price of an economy model.
What makes the modern digital version particularly effective is the Entertainment Travel Planner. This built-in booking engine aggregates the best member-only deals in one place, saving you the time of hunting for promo codes across the internet. Instead of worrying if a “leaked” corporate code will be rejected at the rental desk, you can book with confidence using your legitimate membership ID. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially since many rental agencies in 2026 have tightened their verification processes for discount eligibility.
Furthermore, the membership is a “gift that keeps on giving” throughout your entire vacation. Since car rental is usually just one part of your travel budget, the app supplements your savings with 2-for-1 deals and up to 50% off at local restaurants, attractions, and movie theaters in over 10,000 cities across the U.S., Canada, and even parts of Australia. If you use just one or two dining coupons during your trip, the membership essentially pays for itself, making the car rental discount a “pure profit” for your wallet.
For those who are frequent travelers, the Annual Digital Membership is typically the best value, often featuring a 14-day free trial to test the waters. By planning your rental booking during this trial or shortly after subscribing, you can lock in low rates during peak seasons like summer or the holidays when standard prices skyrocket. The digital nature of the membership means you always have your “book” on your phone, ready to be presented at the rental counter or used for a spontaneous last-minute booking if your original plans change.
Ultimately, buying an Entertainment Membership is less of an expense and more of a strategic investment in your travel fund. In an era where car rental prices can be unpredictable, having a reliable source of guaranteed discounts provides a safety net for your budget. By combining these member-only rates with other “pro tips”—like booking early and skipping the airport pick-up—you can ensure that you are getting the absolute lowest price possible for your 2026 travels.
