A recent survey revealed that 13% of car hire customers have paid more than expected at the counter, and many are confused by insurance options. Travel journalist Natalie King shares four strategies to secure affordable car hire, having rented a car for a family of four in Europe for under £150 per week—cheaper than using taxis and buses.
Opt for Local Firms Over International Giants
King advises avoiding large, international car hire franchises. She has experienced extra fees and surprises with big firms, such as being charged £80 for a toddler booster seat that costs £15 at Argos. In contrast, local firm Cicar in the Canary Islands provided free car seats. Local firms often charge lower or no deposits and return fuel deposits quickly, unlike larger companies that may delay refunds.
Avoid Comparison Sites
Comparison sites earn commission through clicks, often showing tempting deals that jump in price at booking. King notes that it's not always clear which company you're booking with, as third-party sites may pass your reservation to another firm. She recommends booking directly through the rental company's website to ensure transparency and allow proper research of reviews.
Buy Your Own Car Hire Excess Insurance
If using a big firm, avoid expensive insurance upsells at the counter. Separate car hire excess insurance is often cheaper, with annual policies starting at around £40. Frequent travelers can save significantly by purchasing annual coverage.
Get Confident with Driving on the Right
King, who learned to drive in her 30s, found driving abroad intuitive once she tried in Menorca. She booked an automatic car from local firm Poppy Cars, which was easy to drive. She advises researching destinations via YouTube to understand road conditions, signs, and etiquette. For instance, in Spain, flashing headlights is a warning of overtaking, not a criticism of driving skills.
