Here's an exception to the widespread trend of car rentals getting more and more expensive.

Thrifty Car Rental needs some of its inventory moved to Florida for the peak winter season. Rather than hiring driver or putting cars on trucks, Thrifty is offering $1-per-day rentals to travelers who are willing to take off soon and drive one way to the Sunshine State.

As you might expect for such an extraordinary deal, there are quite a few restrictions. First, the pick-up areas are limited: Cars can be picked up only in three Texas airports (Corpus Christi, Houston Hobby, and Houston Intercontinental) or in three New England airports (Boston, Burlington, and Providence). Next, the drop-off locations are also limited (not so bad) to your choice of nine major airports in Florida, including Key West, Orlando, Tampa, Miami, or Jacksonville. This is a completely last-minute offer as well, available only through November 15. There's a seven-day maximum rental period, and, finally, availability is limited.

If you can make those requirements work for you on such short notice, a mid-size rental can be yours at a rate of $1 per day (taxes and fees are extra). Reserve asap at Thrifty.com.

In the past, car rental agencies have offered similar seasonal one-way car rental deals, but more often than not, the daily rates have been $10. National Car Rental has a one-way to Florida promotion right now, but it's cheapest cars are going for $30 a day, which hardly seems like a bargain at all. This is more or less to be expected considering that car rental rates have more than doubled in the past year.

To keep your travel expenses down, check out this AP story revealing "Tips for getting the best deal when you rent a car," which prominently features quotes and tips from BT's editor Nina Willdorf.