If you’re thinking about hiring a car when you’re next on holiday, but you’re not sure where to start, then not to worry! We have you covered when it comes to all things car hire.
Don’t let driving abroad grind your gears – follow these tips and you’ll be hitting the highway on holiday stress-free!
Book in advance
Just like flights and hotels, car rentals can be significantly cheaper if you book them well in advance. Waiting until the last minute can result in higher prices and limited options, so once you’ve got your holiday booked, it’s best to look into car hire as soon as possible.
Do your research
The absolute first thing you need to do before hiring a car on holiday takes place before you even set foot on a plane. Take some time to do car hire research on the destination/place you’re heading to. You’ll be surprised how much time and money this can save you – definitely don’t just leave it to sort when you’re there!
There will be an array of car hire companies advertising their services online to your holiday destination, so it’s just a case of selecting one that ticks off everything you need – and at a reasonable cost. Take some time to navigate through your options, making a list of the best contenders.
Choose a car suitable for your needs
Ensure you look at cars that are suitable for your party, and the things you’ll be doing. Just the two of you? A little run-around will probably do! Taking the family away? You’ll need something with a bit more space. Planning on going off the beaten track? How about a 4×4!
Take into account how long you’re likely to spend in the car, which decides the kind of comfort levels and space you want. Or if you’re feeling fancy, why not go for a convertible to soak up the sun and enjoy the breeze?
No deposit
Many car hire companies require you to put down a hefty deposit or a bond before you get the keys – which, let’s face it, isn’t ideal. This isn’t the case with all car hire companies though, so shop around and find a company offering car hire with no deposit. Some companies may require you to put a debit or credit card on file, but again this isn’t always the case. Sometimes you can book online, and pay in cash when you collect the car instead.
Understand the insurance
Car hire insurance can be a bit of a minefield. Basic insurance is usually included, but it often comes with a high excess. To avoid any nasty surprises, consider purchasing additional insurance to cover this excess. Many rental companies offer their own policies, but you might find better deals through third-party insurers. Always read the fine print to know exactly what is covered.
Read the T&Cs
Once you’re happy with your chosen car hire provider, make sure to give the terms and conditions a read. This ensures you’re not going to be caught out by any nasty surprises, like any hidden fees or extra charges on arrival.
Look out for charges for additional drivers, young driver fees, GPS rentals, or returning the car with less than a full tank. Make sure you understand the total cost, fees and all, before confirming your booking.
Stay up-to-date with your destination
In order for your car hire to go as smoothly as possible, it’s also best to do a little check for any road updates in the area you’re travelling to. After all, driving rules vary from country to country. Even if it’s an area you’ve travelled to before, don’t assume you know the latest travel information – roads are changing all the time!
Simply do a google search on [destination/region name] road/traffic updates. You might just read a few things that will help you be that little bit more prepared on the roads abroad. Whether it be road closures or the installation of new speed and traffic light cameras, you want all the info you can to make sure your time driving on holiday is stress-free!
In some countries you might find yourself driving on opposite side of the road, which is definitely a new experience, so be prepared!
Inspect the car thoroughly
When you pick up your car, give it a thorough inspection. Note any existing damage, no matter how minor, and make sure it’s documented by the rental company. Take your own photos if necessary for peace of mind, documenting the condition of the car when you collect it. This can save you from being charged for damage that was already there.
Plan your routes
While getting lost can be part of the adventure, having a basic plan can save you time and stress. Use GPS or map apps like Google Maps on your phone to plan your routes, and download offline maps just in case you lose signal. Having a general idea of where you’re going will help you make the most of your time on holiday.
Don’t be a fool when it comes to fuel
Rental companies have different fuel policies – some require you to return the car with a full tank, while others operate on a “full to empty” basis. The former is usually more cost-effective, so consider filling up the tank before you return the car to avoid high refuelling charges.
Stay safe
Safety first! Driving abroad can be a totally new experience, especially in a place you’ve never been to before. Make sure to wear your seatbelts at all times like you would at home, and just take your time on your journeys – don’t be rushing about. Take it easy, stick to speed limits, and remember to stay hydrated if you’re in a hot country. Always keep your rental agreement and emergency contact numbers handy, just in case!
Enjoy the ride!
Last but not least – remember to enjoy the ride! Car hire opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to discover hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.
Prepare to explore at your own pace and uncover destinations that are off the typical tourist track. Roll down the windows, turn up the music, and let the road trip begin!
Head to our Holiday Extras page for details on car hire with our partner, Holiday Taxis.
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