Are you dreaming of a Greek island getaway or cruising down the iconic Route 66? It should be exciting but rising car hire costs can quickly dampen the mood.
Since the pandemic, rental prices have soared, with UK holidaymakers paying up to 77% more in popular destinations. When you add this to flights, accommodation, and family essentials, the stress can mount.
The good news is there are plenty of ways to cut your car hire costs.
Why are rental cars so expensive?
Firstly let’s unpack exactly why the cost of renting a car can be so high. There are several factors that could be driving up the price without you realising:
- Type of car – A luxury Mercedes will cost far more than a compact Fiat 500.
- Supply and demand – Fewer cars and more customers mean higher prices.
- Length of rental – A week-long hire costs more than a short break. Extensions can be pricey too.
- Events and seasons – Holidays like Easter or peak summer push prices up.
- Location – Busy destinations mean more demand and higher rates.
- Extras – Add-ons like excess waivers, child seats, and GPS can quickly inflate your bill.
How to beat the price
Now you have an idea of why the price of hiring a car can be a lot, let’s explore how to bring that price back down.
1. Book as early as you can
Booking at the last minute can be beneficial for hotel stays or show tickets, but not when it comes to hiring a car.
By booking sooner, you can reap the benefits of enjoying a wider selection of cars to choose from, avoid last-minute price hikes, and secure any early booking deals the rental company may be running.
2. Shop around for the best deals
Before committing to hiring a rental car, it is always worth doing your research and finding the best car hire company that can offer you fantastic deals.
In addition to getting the best deals, shopping around can help you find the perfect hire car for you, secure the best discounts and promotions, read various customer reviews, and make an informed decision.
3. Choose the right size car for you
While this may seem obvious, you can be easily caught out when you’ve brought an extra suitcase or a pushchair that won’t fit into your chosen hire car. You can be charged a lot upfront to upgrade your vehicle so plan ahead and consider what size car is going to work best for you and your travel plans.
For example, if you’re a family of four going on holiday, it would be pointless to hire a two-seater sports car. Similarly, if you are travelling solo, do you really need a five-seater car?
4. Don’t accept the company’s extras
After a long journey, it can be tempting to accept any extras that are offered, such as a child seat or GPS system, but these can often come at extortionate prices.
Much like finding your ideal rental car company, it is worth doing your research ahead of time.
For example, the majority of airlines will allow you to take your own child car seat as a checked piece of baggage free of charge.
As for your GPS needs, there are a variety of reputable and free apps that can operate without using data. So, make sure you download one ahead of time and avoid having to spend money needlessly.
Alternatively, if you own a detachable Satnav, you can upgrade its maps to match your travel destination.
Other extras you may be offered include roadside assistance, additional driver fees, and insurance.
Top tip: remember that if you have insurance and road assistance cover, you do not need to purchase it again!
5. Purchase a standalone car hire excess insurance policy
It is important to remember that, just like the added extras, care hire companies will try to persuade you to take out their excess waiver which often falls short in terms of the coverage it offers, and is more expensive.
Car hire excess insurance from ReduceMyExcess is a fraction of the price and is much more comprehensive in coverage – protecting you in the instance that you return the hire car with damage to the underbody, autoglass, tyres and much more. Get a quote today and be covered in minutes.
6. Consider the full-to-full tank option
Car hire companies often try to make you take the full-to-empty option by suggesting it is a hassle finding a petrol station close by before you return your car; this is rarely the case.
It is likely they will charge you far more than a petrol station for the fuel, and you may not even use all of it.
There may even be admin fees, so it is well worth spending some time locating the nearest petrol station to your drop-off point and exploring other fuel options.
7. Carry out a damage check
A very simple and easy way to fall victim to unexpected charges is by not checking the vehicle thoroughly before leaving the car rental premises.
This is Money reported that only half of car hirers thoroughly check a vehicle for damage, while 57% do not report any damage not listed on the handover documentation to a member of staff at pick up.
Avoid paying out a hefty sum for damage you have not caused by checking both the inside and outside of the car, as well as taking pictures and videos of any chips, cracks, and scratches that you do notice.
Once you have noted all the damage, GOV.UK advises noting it down on the pre-rental inspection form and keeping a copy for your own reference.
8. Read the small print and the T&C’s
We’re all guilty of not reading the terms and conditions, eager to move along to the next step.
However, it is very important that you pay close attention to both the small print and the terms and conditions in your car rental agreement.
These will usually outline your mileage allowance, how much fuel the car should have upon return, and what the insurance excess will be.
If you are unsure about anything that is included in your car rental agreement, never be afraid to ask questions and get clarification.
Otherwise, you may find expected charges on your card like 16% of other car hirers.
Final Thoughts
By understanding the factors that contribute to rising costs, such as hidden fees and those additional extras you most likely do not need, as well as how you can find the best deals, you can ensure you have a stress-free and affordable car hire experience.
Comments are closed