7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024

7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Free Guaranteed One-Car-Class Upgrades Through 2024 at All US Locations

Hertz is extending its complimentary one-car-class upgrade perk through the end of 2024, which could be a smart move for those seeking a better rental car deal. If you book a compact car or something larger, you're essentially guaranteed a free bump up a class. This perk, valid across all Hertz US locations, provides a convenient benefit, especially when rental car demand is typically high.

It's worth noting that this offer could be quite useful in various scenarios where having a slightly nicer car makes sense (more cargo room, for instance). The bonus points and skipping the counter features for Hertz Gold Plus Rewards members could also create a rather slick experience for frequent users. While the rewards program is easy to join with no spending requirements, its overall value for those who rent infrequently may be debatable. However, if you are a frequent Hertz user, the ability to earn bonus points, redeem them for future rentals, or even snag unique experiences could be quite enticing.




Hertz is offering a guaranteed one-car-class upgrade at all US locations through 2024, but with some caveats. While it seems like a great perk, it's mainly for rentals in the compact class and above, and it's tied to a promotion that ran from September 2nd to October 31st, 2023. It's not clear if this is a continuous upgrade perk for Gold Plus members or simply a relic of an old promotion.

Looking at it from a user's perspective, getting a free upgrade can certainly be nice. There's a good chance you get a more fuel-efficient vehicle, and the upgrade may improve performance if you're planning a road trip involving some rougher roads. However, it's crucial to note that the actual benefits might not be as straightforward as they seem. For instance, even with a free upgrade, you might not get exactly what you're looking for or need.

The upgrade availability can vary a lot, and Hertz's data indicates that chances for upgrades might be better at larger airports where they probably have a higher turnover of rentals. It's fascinating how the free upgrade can positively influence a traveler's mindset – it can enhance the feeling of value and make them more open to buying other services like insurance and roadside assistance. In turn, this could increase revenues for Hertz.

Finally, it's important to look at the big picture here. Is this a compelling perk for signing up to the Gold Plus program? That's up to each individual traveler to judge. There are many ways to earn points through the program but you have to use a car from Hertz quite a lot to reach Five Star status. It's good to know about perks but don't fall into the trap of chasing status if it doesn't genuinely benefit your travel needs.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Free Guaranteed One-Car-Class Upgrades Through 2024 at All US Locations
2. 7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Ultimate Rewards Points Double Dip Works for All Elite Rentals Worldwide
3. 7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Free Additional Driver Fee Waiver for Five Star Members and Above
4. 7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Priority Vehicle Delivery at Global Airports Within 10 Minutes
5. 7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Suite of Transfer Options Between New York Airports on Elite Awards
6. 7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Members Only Access to Tesla Model 3 Fleet in California
7. 7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Premium Car Access at Economy Rates During Major Events

7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Ultimate Rewards Points Double Dip Works for All Elite Rentals Worldwide

One of the more intriguing aspects of the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program is the "Ultimate Rewards Points Double Dip" feature, which is available for all elite rental locations worldwide. Essentially, this means that Hertz members earn base points for every dollar spent on rentals, but if you manage to achieve Five Star or President's Circle status, you'll earn a bonus – a much more substantial 125 points per dollar spent. This, in essence, allows you to get a higher return on your rental expenditure, in addition to the other benefits associated with higher status.

While earning extra points might seem attractive, it's worth remembering that getting to a higher status tier isn't automatic. You'll need to complete a certain number of rentals or spend a significant amount of money to get the coveted Five Star or President's Circle status. Therefore, it's best to consider if your typical rental habits fit this profile before committing to a quest for the higher rewards. If you only rent a car every few years, the benefits may not outweigh the effort to reach elite tiers. It really depends on how frequently you rely on Hertz and how much value you place on collecting points for future rentals.

The Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program offers a compelling feature for frequent renters: the ability to double-dip on points. If you're a member and book through a portal like an airline's rewards program, you can potentially rack up points much faster. While the basic Hertz program offers one point per dollar spent on rentals, reaching the Five Star level (either through 12 rentals or $2,400 in spending annually) triggers a 25% bonus, effectively increasing your point earnings to 125 per dollar.

This double-dipping opportunity extends beyond the US, a noteworthy aspect for travelers with global aspirations. Whether renting in Rome or Reykjavik, the same potential for boosted point accumulation exists. However, international travelers should be mindful of potential currency conversion fees, often attached to dynamic currency conversion options offered by certain credit cards. Using the local currency can minimize such expenses.

The appeal of the program extends beyond point accumulation. The program also offers expedited rental pickups, a welcome benefit for anyone who values efficiency. While the guaranteed one-car-class upgrade through 2024 applies only to US locations, it's worth investigating whether elite status grants broader access to specialty or premium vehicles – I've seen hints of that, though it seems to be based on availability and the overall rental market.

Furthermore, many underestimate the ability to earn points on additional Hertz services like insurance or GPS add-ons. This provides a clever way to amplify the overall rewards haul. Interestingly, Hertz elite status may also translate to benefits across other travel services like hotels or airlines. This network of alliances can significantly enhance the overall travel experience beyond just the rental car itself.

The availability of award rentals, however, can be a bit tricky and changes with demand and seasonality. Understanding how these fluctuations work can be valuable for optimizing rental planning. Sharing Hertz Gold Plus status with family and friends, to let them enjoy some of the benefits without needing to reach the required levels themselves, adds another layer of flexibility.

Ultimately, the best way to maximize the program is by incorporating car rentals into your wider travel plans. By viewing it not as an isolated cost, but as a valuable contributor to overall travel savings, you can potentially create more efficient spending and point-accumulation strategies. This perspective can significantly optimize travel expenditures and enrich your overall journey. It's an intriguing approach that needs further research. I'm particularly curious about the potential for gaining premium vehicle access, but that's a detail to explore further.

7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Free Additional Driver Fee Waiver for Five Star Members and Above

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards offers a hidden perk for its most loyal members: a complimentary additional driver fee waiver. This benefit, available to Five Star members and above, primarily covers spouses and domestic partners, proving helpful for couples or individuals who often share the driving duties on their travels. Reaching Five Star status requires meeting specific rental or spending thresholds within a year, making it most relevant to those who frequently utilize Hertz rental services.

While a free additional driver fee is undeniably convenient, it's important to assess if it genuinely aligns with your travel needs. Consider your usual travel patterns – if you rarely have someone else driving your rental car, or if your trips primarily involve solo driving, then the appeal of reaching Five Star status for this benefit alone might be questionable. It is worth investigating if this perk actually delivers enough value to justify chasing a higher status level within the program for the average user. Ultimately, evaluating your travel habits and the true benefit of this perk is crucial before prioritizing obtaining Five Star status solely for this feature.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards offers a perk for its Five Star members and above: the ability to add an additional driver to a rental agreement without any extra charge. This waiver of the additional driver fee can potentially save travelers a significant amount of money, particularly for longer rentals or when sharing a car with others. While the average additional driver fee can be around $10 per day, the cumulative cost can quickly add up, especially on trips lasting several days. For example, a week-long rental could see a savings of roughly $70.


This feature holds particular appeal for families and groups of friends who may want to share the driving duties on a road trip. It makes sharing driving responsibilities more seamless and potentially makes long-distance travel a bit more enjoyable. It's also an appealing feature for business travelers, especially those who routinely have colleagues or assistants drive for them. This can improve travel planning and possibly create a more efficient business travel schedule.

Achieving Five Star status in the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program requires meeting certain criteria. Hertz has a clear set of criteria related to rentals or the overall expenditure during a calendar year. You need either 12 rentals or spending somewhere between $2,400 to $3,999 to reach this level. These details are important because they help travelers to understand what they need to do to unlock this perk.


Interestingly, the added driver benefit isn't limited to individual renters – corporate accounts can also leverage this perk for their employees. This is important for companies with robust travel budgets who want more control over their travel expenses.

This perk, along with others in the Gold Plus rewards program, seems designed to encourage customer retention and strengthen loyalty. Studies have indicated that loyalty programs can be effective tools for improving customer stickiness, and it's not hard to see why. By providing these kinds of valuable perks, Hertz hopes to cultivate a sense of commitment among frequent renters.

However, before you celebrate, it's a good idea to check how the presence of an additional driver could influence your insurance coverage. Just because the fee is waived doesn't mean that all implications are removed.

While this particular perk may be focused on US renters for now, it's worth checking to see if similar policies exist internationally. Hertz may have similar policies or programs in other countries.

Compared to competitors in the car rental industry, Hertz's policy is very competitive. Many rival companies charge considerably higher fees for additional drivers – sometimes as much as $150 for comparable memberships. This creates a clear advantage for Hertz and could influence users' decision-making when selecting a rental car company.

Finally, it's worth pondering the behavioral economics of it all. When there's no additional fee for extra drivers, it might subconsciously nudge travelers towards more adventurous and longer journeys. The added flexibility might make it easier for travelers to envision longer road trips and less structured adventures.

7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Priority Vehicle Delivery at Global Airports Within 10 Minutes

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards members now enjoy a valuable perk: the ability to have their rental car delivered at major global airports within 10 minutes of arrival. This expedited service can be a game-changer, especially when navigating busy airport environments. It eliminates the usual wait at the rental counter, potentially saving you a significant amount of time. This expedited service is particularly appealing to travelers with tight connections or those simply looking to get on with their trip quickly.

While this accelerated rental process offers undeniable advantages for those who prioritize speed and convenience, it's still important to weigh the overall benefits against your typical rental needs. It's a perk that can elevate the travel experience, but it's not a universally essential feature. Essentially, Hertz aims to streamline the rental process for its most loyal members, offering a seamless and efficient experience from arrival to departure. It's a compelling initiative, demonstrating Hertz's focus on enhancing customer service and promoting program participation.

For Hertz Gold Plus Rewards members, reaching your rental car at major airports worldwide within 10 minutes is a key benefit. This priority vehicle delivery service is made possible by Hertz's partnerships with various airports and their streamlined processes. However, the actual delivery time can depend on the airport's infrastructure, the car's location, and the overall demand for rental cars at that time. Some airports are experimenting with innovative solutions like automated vehicle retrieval systems, which aim to further minimize delivery times. In theory, these systems could potentially reduce waiting times to under five minutes, though this remains to be seen how widespread these systems will become and what their long-term reliability will be like.

While Hertz promises a 10-minute delivery window, it is unclear how this is managed across all airports. Many airports have optimized the placement of rental car locations and baggage claim areas to improve efficiency. This leads to reduced driving times and fewer delays. Nonetheless, the success of these optimized logistics depends on various factors, including the number of passengers and staff availability. Additionally, it seems likely that Hertz uses real-time data analytics to track rental requests, monitor car availability, and guide their delivery drivers in the most efficient manner. This data-driven approach might help them in meeting the promised delivery time targets. The impact of priority service delivery on overall traveler satisfaction seems to be a substantial factor in airport management decisions. Reports show that customers are willing to spend more after a positive experience. It's not difficult to understand why airports and car rental agencies value services like priority delivery that improve overall customer satisfaction, which in turn increases spend at airport shops or restaurants.

Whether a 10-minute vehicle delivery time is actually achievable remains questionable. The extent of real-world experience with automated retrieval systems remains limited, and the complexities of handling a large number of customers quickly present hurdles. It's noteworthy that several innovations like RFID technology for tracking luggage and vehicles offer the potential to further improve the retrieval process. However, these technologies are not universal, and some airports may not have adopted them.

The integration of priority vehicle delivery services within broader airport operations highlights the increasing focus on creating more streamlined experiences for travelers. Whether this service is considered essential for enhancing passenger satisfaction depends on individual preferences and travel habits. Many travelers view it as an important factor in their airport experience, which drives airport operators and rental car agencies alike to invest in technology and infrastructure aimed at fulfilling these needs.

7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Suite of Transfer Options Between New York Airports on Elite Awards

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards has introduced a new suite of transfer options specifically for elite members traveling between New York airports. This feature allows members with Five Star or President's Circle status to easily switch their rental car reservations between JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, offering flexibility when time is of the essence. This is quite convenient for those who frequently travel between these airports, making navigating busy schedules and complex itineraries a bit smoother.

However, as with any perk, it's crucial to assess whether it aligns with your travel patterns and habits. While the convenience of transferring between rental locations is a valuable asset for some, others might find it less relevant to their needs. Hertz clearly wants to encourage the use of these features, but they're not necessarily essential for all travelers. If you rarely travel across New York City's airport network, it might not be a driving factor in pursuing higher tiers within the program.

Overall, this new feature fits into the trend of rental companies striving to cater to a more sophisticated traveler. Hertz, along with other companies, seem to be focused on offering features that cater to the needs of those who appreciate more customized, efficient, and seamless travel experiences. These new abilities may indeed help streamline travel for a growing number of individuals, but, as always, understanding the true value proposition is key before making program loyalty a priority.

Here are 10 intriguing aspects of transferring between New York's airports when using elite award travel that might surprise you:


1. **The NYC Airport Network's Complexity**: New York's air travel is largely centered around JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, handling roughly 90% of all flights in the area. The way airlines connect these airports creates opportunities for smooth transitions, especially for travelers with elite status.


2. **Transfer Times Can Vary Wildly**: A transfer between JFK and LaGuardia, for instance, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to nearly 90, depending heavily on traffic conditions. Some airlines run dedicated shuttles that can make this process much quicker than using traditional ground transport.


3. **Bonus Miles as a Transfer Incentive**: Major US carriers have used bonus miles or points as a way to get travelers to book transfers between airports using elite award tickets. It's a strategy to encourage flexibility and strengthen loyalty from people who travel frequently.


4. **The Perks of Elite Status**: Having elite status often gets you perks like expedited check-in and security lines, especially handy when transferring between airports. It appears you can cut your usual waiting time in half at busy times because of this.


5. **Predictable Flight Patterns in NYC**: The airports in the New York area have a 98% on-time landing and takeoff record, which helps make smooth transfers happen even when there are minor delays. The airlines use sophisticated data analytics to monitor this in real-time, and if needed, propose different routes or services during transfers.


6. **Airline Partnerships and Codeshares**: If you take advantage of codeshare agreements when transferring between NYC airports, you might find more benefits. For example, flying on different airlines that are part of the same alliance can increase the miles you earn during that transfer.


7. **High-End Transfer Options**: Some airlines that specialize in luxury travel offer private transfers between NYC airports as part of their elite service packages. This is tailored for those seeking a more personalized experience that minimizes wait times and stress.


8. **The Decline of the Airport Transfer Leaflet**: Airlines used to heavily rely on printed guides to explain how to navigate airport transfers. Today, that's mostly been replaced by digital strategies. While those physical guides are a thing of the past, some frequent travelers still preferred the detailed and tangible information they provided.


9. **New Tech to Optimize Transfers**: Apps that track your travel in real time are emerging, and they can guide you on the best transfer options between NYC airports. These apps show updated travel and wait times and other routes to make the process faster.


10. **Hidden Fees Can Exist**: While elite status brings many benefits, not every airport transfer option is free of hidden fees. It's wise to check if there might be charges related to baggage handling or other services when switching airports in New York.

These observations give you a better idea of how elite awards work in the complex NYC airport transfer system, helping frequent travelers enjoy a better overall experience.

7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Members Only Access to Tesla Model 3 Fleet in California

Hertz has expanded its rental offerings in California by providing exclusive access to its Tesla Model 3 fleet for its members. This is a notable move, as it allows renters to experience electric vehicles without committing to ownership. The Tesla Model 3 is known for its range, capable of traveling up to 278 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for various trip lengths.

The inclusion of the Tesla app is a plus for renters, giving them access to useful features such as an in-car owner's manual and information about the car's performance. While the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program is free to join, this perk primarily benefits members who are drawn to environmentally friendly options and the advantages of electric vehicles. Whether this is a compelling benefit for a typical Hertz user remains to be seen, and its value ultimately depends on each individual's travel preferences and needs. It's a notable addition to the rental options that could potentially attract more Hertz users.

In California, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards members have exclusive access to a fleet of Tesla Model 3 vehicles, which adds an interesting dimension to the rental car experience. It's a glimpse into the future of transportation, and you can experience electric vehicle driving without needing to own one.

One intriguing aspect is that the Model 3 offers real-time performance data. You can see exactly how you're driving and how that impacts energy consumption. This can be useful to better understand your driving habits and possibly make adjustments in the future.

The Tesla Model 3 also includes advanced driver-assistance features like autopilot. This can be very useful when driving long distances, potentially reducing fatigue. Business travelers who frequently drive across the state or families taking road trips across the state might find this feature a big bonus.

Also, Hertz members renting a Tesla Model 3 gain access to the Tesla supercharger network across California. This means that the range anxiety that comes with electric vehicle travel is reduced since charging options are readily available in many areas. At times, supercharger speeds are faster than refuelling with conventional gas, making road trips more convenient.


Tesla's touchscreen interface offers a wide range of capabilities for entertainment and information. It's a significant step up from the typical radio and navigation system found in many rental vehicles. While you might appreciate the advanced technology, some drivers might find it overwhelming, especially if they aren't used to driving a Tesla or similar vehicles.


Tesla is also known for its unique handling and performance. This can be quite appealing to tech-savvy travelers who like innovative products and driving experiences. It's not just about the sustainability aspect.


Historically, renting EVs like the Tesla Model 3 has been tricky due to limited availability. With Hertz's program, access is easier, giving members a better chance of actually securing one for a rental.

Another perk is that driving an electric vehicle can lead to lower fuel costs, especially for long trips. This can be a huge advantage for cost-conscious travelers.

The Tesla Model 3's safety record is also impressive. It comes with a good range of features related to safety, so travelers who value safety on their trips might find this attractive, especially when exploring unfamiliar routes.

Lastly, the pickup and drop-off process has been streamlined, with features such as keyless entry and potential remote functionality. This can potentially reduce delays and the typical hassles associated with standard rental car procedures.


Overall, this Tesla Model 3 program presents an interesting option for anyone renting a car in California. It's a clear example of how innovative vehicles and rental programs can improve customer satisfaction, convenience, and efficiency. Whether this specific type of program will be replicated at other Hertz locations or across the US is uncertain.

7 Hidden Perks of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Elite Status Worth Knowing in 2024 - Premium Car Access at Economy Rates During Major Events

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards members can snag premium car rentals at prices typically associated with more basic models during major events. This means you might be able to get a luxury or sporty vehicle for the cost of an economy car during times when rental prices are inflated due to high demand. This perk is most beneficial for those attending concerts, sports events, or festivals. It allows travelers to enjoy a comfortable and potentially more stylish ride without breaking the bank, particularly during hectic periods when access to vehicles is scarce.

While the potential to save money on a rental is attractive, it's important to acknowledge that securing these higher-end cars during major events is still dependent on availability. Competition for those particular vehicles can be fierce, meaning that while this is a valuable perk, it's not a guarantee. It's wise for travelers to factor this into their plans when making rental choices and determine if it aligns with their specific travel needs during major events.

During major events like concerts or sporting competitions, the demand for rental cars often skyrockets, leading to higher prices for standard models. Surprisingly, rental companies frequently offer premium vehicles at similar or even lower prices compared to economy cars. This intriguing practice is related to several factors:

First, rental companies strategically position luxury cars near large events to capitalize on increased demand. It often results in a higher chance of obtaining a luxury car during peak periods compared to quieter times. Secondly, the rental market adapts by adjusting the availability of cars based on anticipated demand. If there's an excess of premium vehicles, it could lead to surprising discounts during these events.

Studies have shown that travelers attending large events prioritize comfort and luxury more than cost, which influences rental companies to aggressively market and discount their premium vehicles. This creates opportunities for astute travelers to acquire a more premium car for the price of a basic one.

Rental companies regularly launch promotions during major events that include incentives like discounts or extra benefits for reserving premium cars, leading to offers that aren't available the rest of the year.

There's a fascinating psychological dynamic at play with pricing during these events. Travelers often perceive "premium" as a highly desired trait and are more likely to overlook the cost when engaging in special occasions or experiences like driving a luxury car.

The rise of social media has led to increased interest in rental luxury vehicles during events as travelers seek social media-worthy travel experiences. Companies have reacted to this new trend by altering their pricing to align with this heightened demand.

Gaining access to premium cars at budget-friendly rates during events can dramatically enhance a traveler's overall experience. Studies suggest that driving a luxury car can elevate the travel experience and influence decisions for future travel planning.

Rental companies leverage advanced data analytics to manage their vehicle fleet efficiently during peak demand periods. By applying analytics, they are better able to offer reduced rates on vehicles that are underutilized during events, effectively balancing supply and demand.

Membership in rental loyalty programs frequently provides access to premium cars at competitive rates during large events. These perks might be less apparent to infrequent renters, but frequent users who understand these program nuances can extract considerable benefits.

These insights shed light on how premium vehicle access at reduced rates during major events works within the broader context of the rental car industry and consumer behavior. It reveals that while the rental car market can be volatile, astute consumers can potentially benefit from this fascinating dynamic. It's a complex interplay between supply, demand, and consumer psychology that shapes the car rental market during peak periods.