Book Colorado car rentals from $40

With long stretches of beautiful highways and inviting open roads, many travelers opt to turn their Colorado vacations into driving journeys. If you're planning an amazing road trip, it pays to know which destinations to put on your bucket list. Try to tick off as many of this place's most renowned destinations as you can:

• Denver (population of 682,500)
• Colorado Springs (population of 456,600)
• Mesa (population of 439,000)
• Fort Collins (population of 161,200)

Here are our suggestions on how to jump behind the wheel of a rental car with extra cash in your pocket:

• Use our amazing filter feature to point you in the direction of the hottest car rental deals around — and then compare the prices;
• Keep an eye on your inbox for our popular Price Drop Alert. We'll give you inside info on all the unbeatable bargains cruising around your location;
• Before you pick up your car keys and hop behind the wheel, check out both airport and non-airport pickup and drop-off office locations to ensure you're bagging the cheapest deal around;
• If you don't mind which day of the week you collect the keys to your car and your travel plans are flexible, play around with days and dates to find the best rates;
• To avoid paying late fees or for a whole extra day, aim to keep your pickup and drop-off times the same;
• Keep more cash in your bank account. You'll get some of the cheapest deals when you prepay your rental vehicle;
• Book as soon as your dates are locked in. The early bird gets the worm!

Who needs all the bells and whistles? Economy cars are the most popular rental car category for visitors to Colorado, and for good reason. You'll experience terrific fuel economy as you navigate the streets of Denver and Colorado Springs in this small vehicle. They're agile, a cinch to park, and most importantly, easy on your bank balance.Of course, you can't check out Colorado without exploring a few of its natural beauty spots. Head out on a road trip around alpine meadows and mountains from the comfort of something bigger, like a full-size car. Load up your passengers and whatever else you need to take — these models offer plenty of space for your gear without compromising on room.