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One would think that at any car rental agency, child seats would be available without much fuss. Think again.

According to Consumer Reports Travel Letter, a number of the major agencies won’t unconditionally guarantee child seat availability. We checked in on the latest.

Alamo (800/GO-ALAMO) will guarantee a carseat with your rental in the US and Canada at airport locations, but they are subject to availability outside the US.

Avis Rent-A-Car  (800/331-1212) Please ask for a seat when you make your reservations. Rates vary by location, but there is a $60 maximum charge.

Budget Rent-A-Car (800/527-0700) guarantees a seat at corperate-owned franchises. Rates vary by location, and average at $12 per day, with a $60 maximum.

Dollar Rent-a-Car (800/800-3665) offers child safety seats at most locations. Prices vary according to location.

Hertz (800/654-3001) Child seats are available at all U.S. locations for $13 per day, $65 per week. One seat is free for AAA members for the length of rental.

National Car Rental ( 800/CAR-RENT) guarantees child seats and requires that children under the age of 5 years ride in a federally approved seat. Rates vary, but average $9 per day.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car (800/261-7331) seats are available at most airport locations, but you must contact the specific location to make a request. Prices vary.

Thrifty Car Rental (800/847-4389) Seats are available at most airport locations for $12 per day.

Bottom line: when making rental car plans, inquire specifically about child seat availability and get a guarantee with your confirmation number.