When choosing a car rental company, travelers are often torn between Hertz and National, two titans in the industry. Each offers unique benefits tailored to different types of renters, from casual vacationers to seasoned business travelers. Both companies boast strong reputations, robust loyalty programs, and a wide range of vehicles to meet various car rental needs.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National’s Emerald Club are central to their offerings, providing perks like free rental days, priority service, and elite membership benefits. But how do they stack up in terms of customer satisfaction, pricing, and convenience? This guide explores the features and differences between Hertz and National, helping you decide which is the best car rental companyfor your next trip.

A Snapshot of Hertz and National’s Services

Hertz: Over a Century of Excellence

Hertz, a pioneer in the car rental industry, has been serving customers since 1918. Today, it operates in over 150 countries, offering unparalleled access to rental cars for leisure and business purposes. With a focus on quality and variety, Hertz provides options for everyone, from budget travelers to those seeking luxury cars like Mercedes-Benz.

Highlights of Hertz’s Services

• Hertz Gold Plus Rewards: Members enjoy faster service, free rentals, and other perks based on their tier level.

• Hertz Ultimate Choice: Available at Hertz Ultimate Choice locations, this feature lets customers pick their vehicle, ensuring a customized experience.

• Premium Fleet Options: High-end vehicles, including SUVs and convertibles, cater to renters looking for comfort and style.

• Convenient Locations: Hertz’s vast network includes airport locations and city branches, making it accessible worldwide.

• Corporate Discounts: Special rates for businesses make Hertz a go-to for corporate travelers.

Whether you’re renting for a weekend road trip or a long-term business assignment, Hertz’s offerings are designed to make the process seamless.

National: Designed for Frequent Travelers

National, a key brand under Enterprise Holdings, has been a favorite among road warriors and frequent travelers for decades. Its Emerald Club loyalty program is particularly appealing for its flexibility, allowing members to choose their vehicle and enjoy expedited service.

Highlights of National’s Services

• Emerald Aisle Access: Skip the rental counter and choose any car in the Emerald Aisle.

• One-Way Rentals: A great option for travelers with flexible itineraries.

• Elite Tiers: Higher-level memberships like Executive Elite offer additional perks, including guaranteed upgrades and free rental days.

• Business-Friendly Policies: National’s streamlined booking and return processes make it ideal for business trips.

National’s commitment to convenience and efficiency has earned it a loyal customer base, particularly among those who value time-saving services.

Loyalty Programs: Maximizing Rewards

Both Hertz and National excel in rewarding loyal customers, but their programs differ in structure and benefits.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards

Hertz’s loyalty program is designed for frequent renters who want to earn and redeem points for free rentals and upgrades. Here’s how it works:

• Gold Tier: Entry-level members earn rewards points on every rental and can skip the counter at most rental locations.

• Five Star and President’s Circle: Higher tiers offer perks like vehicle upgrades, bonus points, and access to premium cars at Hertz Ultimate Choice locations.

• Points Flexibility: Use points for free days, upgrades, or accessories like GPS systems and child seats.

• Partnerships: Hertz partners with airlines and credit card providers like Amex Platinum, enabling members to earn airline miles or additional points for each dollar spent.

For customers who value premium service and vehicle options, Hertz’s program is hard to beat.

National’s Emerald Club

National’s Emerald Club is all about convenience and speed. The program is particularly attractive to frequent renters who prioritize efficiency:

• Emerald Aisle Access: Members can pick any car from the Emerald Aisle without additional paperwork, streamlining the rental process.

• Earn Free Rental Days: Members earn credits for every dollar spent, redeemable for free rentals faster than many other programs.

• Executive Elite Benefits: Guaranteed car availability, free upgrades, and priority service.

• Exclusive Perks for Business Travelers: National’s focus on flexibility makes it a preferred choice for those on tight schedules.

National’s loyalty program is straightforward and caters to travelers who value time-saving features.

Fleet Options: From Compact to Luxury

The variety of cars offered by a rental company is a critical factor for many renters. Both Hertz and National provide a diverse fleet, but their approach to vehicle selection differs.

Hertz: A Fleet for Every Occasion

Hertz offers an extensive range of vehicles, catering to different preferences and budgets:

• Economy and Compact Cars: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers or solo renters.

• Full-Size and SUVs: Great for families or groups.

• Luxury Cars: High-end models like Mercedes-Benz and convertibles for those who want to travel in style.

• Specialty Vehicles: Options like trucks and vans for unique rental needs.

Hertz’s Ultimate Choice program at participating locations allows renters to select their car, giving them more control over their experience.

National: Focused on Flexibility

National’s fleet is equally versatile, with a strong emphasis on ease of selection:

• Emerald Aisle: Members can pick any car from the lot without additional fees.

• Executive Aisle: Higher-tier members gain access to premium and luxury vehicles.

• One-Way Rentals: Flexible options for those who need to drop off their car at a different location.

National’s self-selection process is particularly popular among road warriors who value quick, hassle-free service.

Pricing and Discounts: Finding the Best Deal

Affordability is often a deciding factor when choosing a rental car company. Both Hertz and National offer competitive pricing, but their discounts and promotions cater to different audiences.

Hertz Pricing and Offers

Hertz provides various ways to save:

• Corporate Discounts: Special rates for businesses.

• Hertz Offers: Seasonal promotions and discount codes are frequently available.

• Free Rentals: Redeem rewards points for free days or upgrades.

• One-Way Rentals: Affordable options for flexible itineraries.

National Pricing and Offers

National’s pricing is straightforward, with a focus on loyalty rewards:

• Free Rental Days: Earned faster than with most other car rental companies.

• Emerald Club Discounts: Exclusive savings for members.

• One-Way Flexibility: Competitive pricing for drop-off at different locations.

For travelers in Wisconsin, Kompelling Kars offers competitive rates and local convenience. Check out locations like Green Bay, Appleton, and Oshkosh for affordable rental options.

Customer Experience and Satisfaction

Both Hertz and National rank high in customer satisfaction, but their approaches differ slightly.

Hertz: Service with a Premium Touch

Hertz is known for:

• Exceptional Customer Service: Staff are well-trained and responsive.

• Premium Vehicle Maintenance: High standards for fleet upkeep.

• Convenient Airport Locations: Easy access for travelers.

National: Efficiency Above All

National earns praise for:

• Streamlined Processes: Quick check-ins and drop-offs.

• Emerald Club Convenience: A favorite among business travelers.

• Flexibility: Options like one-way rentals and free rental days.

Choosing the Best Car Rental Company: Hertz or National?

The choice between Hertz and National ultimately depends on your priorities:

• Choose Hertz if you value premium vehicles, elite rewards, and expansive rental locations.

• Opt for National if convenience, flexibility, and free rental days are more important to you.

For travelers in Wisconsin, Kompelling Kars provides excellent local options at locations like DoorCounty and Manitowoc.