Renting a car is often a necessary part of traveling, and can be a real lifesaver for people who need to quickly get from one place to another without having access to a vehicle of their own. It can be a costly experience, though, and for many people the whole thing is a big hassle. There are ways to avoid some of that headache, and by entering the process armed with key information, you can get out without much stress at all.

It’s tempting to go for the fastest or most luxurious vehicle available, but you’ll save a lot of money by looking for the rental that meets your specific needs. Most major rental companies offer everything from tiny hatchbacks to full-size pickup trucks and exotic sports cars, so you’ll have your pick of a variety of vehicles. If you’re planning for a road trip with the family, a minivan or full-size sedan may be the best pick, while renting to help a friend move might require a pickup truck. In many cases, people rent vehicles on business trips, which are quick and don’t require a fancy ride.

While it’s possible to rent a car with no reservation or prior communication, you’ll have a much easier time (and get what you want) if you are able to either call ahead or reserve a car online. All major rental companies offer the ability to select a car, view rates, and pay online, so it’s easier to find a car now than ever before. If you find yourself needing a vehicle without much prior warning, pick up the phone and call before heading into the store. You’re much more likely to find a better rate and wider availability there.

Airports are by far the most common place to find a rental company, but there are locations scattered across the country in various locations. Vehicle availability and pricing tend to be better at airport locations, so you may be better off renting from one of those spots even if you’re not getting off of a plane.

You don’t have to limit yourself to the major companies, either. If you need a pickup truck for a move or to haul dirt from Home Depot, a better bet might be heading to your local U-Haul store to rent instead of Enterprise or Budget rentals. You’re likely to find a better price with more favorable rental terms (half-day rentals, etc.) than at a major store, and it shouldn’t be as busy.