The internet has revolutionized our lives, especially in the area of travel. Travelers are traipsing the World Wide Web to plan their vacations in the real world. Not only can they book their accommodations, flights and car rentals at one time, they can also find the best deals in lightening fast time.

One of the great travel deals you can find easily on the internet are car rental discount codes. These are alphanumeric codes that are basically computerized coupons. Sometimes these codes are used on paper coupons (or "physical coupons") that are scanned at the car rental site. The great thing about these codes is that, unlike some other discounts, you can use them in conjunction with other deals.

Remember, however, the adage that "What the large print giveth, the fine print taketh away." Some of these discount codes have restrictions. Some limit their use to a specific time or, conversely, can't be used during a specific time (such the day before Thanksgiving).

These discount codes are great because they often can be used in planning other parts of your trip. Your airplane ticket may have a discount code for your rental car or even for an entire travel package.

Of course, if you are planning a trip, you want to know where to find these discount codes. You may have gotten some already and not even know it: If you belong to an online site like Travelocity or Orbitz, you can log on and access any discount codes they offer. Or simply sign up for their email list and receive them regularly. If you belong to an automobile club, check to see if they offer discount codes for rental cars, or for its other services. If you've already booked your flight and accommodations, look through your materials to see if they've sent you a car rental discount code as a courtesy. Dicounts are available whether you're renting a car in Alaska or .

Some surprising places to find these codes are your grocery store's loyalty program, entertainment guides and advertisements. Because car rental companies are very competitive, the companies try very hard to attract attention by creating great rates. It's worth the time to look to see what's out there.

Also, if you know someone who has traveled recently, especially to the location for which you're headed, ask if which company they used. If they got a great deal, they can guide you to the same one. Remember, deals change frequently so you may not be able to get the same offer. On the other hand, you may get an even better one. Or, you may learn which car rental company to avoid.

Car rental companies, hotels, airlines and other travel companies work together to offer their companies great deals. It's a win-win situation all the way around. They get more customers and you get great deals on travel.