According to Hertz, despite rising fuel costs, travelers are still taking fall escapes but finding ways to make them more affordable.

Hertz data revealed that Hybrid car rental demand is up 58 percent year-over-year September through November. Top markets include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orlando, Boston and Atlanta.

With affordability in mind, customers are also booking rental cars earlier than last year for the holiday season, suggesting travelers are planning ahead to secure preferred vehicles and pricing.

During Thanksgiving week, November 24 and 25 are tracking as the busiest days for car rentals.

Customer research also showed other trends to include:

• Nearly 60% of travelers plan to drive to their destination, compared with just 28% whose trip requires a domestic flight.
• Nearly 20% of vehicle renters say renting a car is more cost-effective than flying for their fall travels.
• Cost remains a major factor in travel decisions, with 42.5% of non-travelers citing travel expenses as the primary reason they're staying home.

These findings point to a more cost-conscious traveler who is choosing road trips, leading toward more fuel-efficient vehicles and booking early to manage trip plans and budgets.

As such, Hertz is offering savings on rentals, including up to 25% off base rates and discounts on EV and hybrid vehicles.