Car Hire Without the Confusion
Compare vehicle types, understand insurance, deposits, fuel policies and hidden extras, then choose a rental car that actually fits your holiday.
Find the Right Rental Car for Your Holiday
Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore beaches, cities, countryside and attractions at your own pace. It can be especially useful for road trips, family holidays and destinations where public transport does not reach every attraction.
The cheapest rental car is not always the best choice. Before booking, compare the vehicle size, luggage space, fuel policy, mileage allowance, insurance, deposit, pickup location and additional driver costs.
Choose the Right Rental Car
The best rental car depends on the number of passengers, luggage, destination and type of driving you plan to do.
Economy Cars
Small, efficient cars are ideal for couples, solo travellers and city holidays where easy parking and low running costs are important.
Compact Cars
Compact hatchbacks offer a useful balance between easy city driving, passenger comfort and luggage space.
Family Cars
Family cars provide extra room for passengers, luggage, pushchairs and child seats, making them ideal for family holidays and longer road trips.
SUVs
SUVs provide extra passenger and luggage space and are useful for countryside drives, mountain routes and longer road trips.
Luxury Cars
Premium vehicles provide additional comfort, stylish interiors and a more special experience for luxury holidays and occasions.
Electric Cars
Electric rental cars can be a good choice for travellers who want efficient driving, provided charging points are convenient along the planned route.
Family Car Rental
Families usually need more than just four seats. Luggage, pushchairs, child seats and holiday equipment can quickly use up available space.
Check the Boot Space
Always check the actual luggage capacity rather than relying only on the vehicle category. A car that fits five passengers may not comfortably fit five people's luggage.
Child Seats
If you need child seats, check availability and the additional cost before booking. Confirm the correct seat requirements for your children.
Five Doors
Five-door vehicles are generally much easier for families, especially when installing child seats or loading luggage.
Automatic Transmission
An automatic can make unfamiliar roads easier to manage, particularly in busy cities or hilly destinations.
Airport Car Rental
Airport rental locations are convenient when you want to drive away immediately after your flight, but airport-related charges can sometimes make the rental more expensive.
Airport Pickup
Convenient for arriving passengers and useful when your destination is outside the main city.
City Pickup
A city location may sometimes provide a lower overall price and can be convenient if you do not need a car immediately.
After-Hours Pickup
If your flight arrives late, check whether the rental desk is open and whether an after-hours charge applies.
Rental Car Insurance
Insurance can be one of the most confusing parts of car rental. Before booking, understand what cover is included and what financial liability may remain with you.
| Check | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Damage Cover | Check what types of damage are covered and what exclusions apply. |
| The Excess | Find out the maximum amount you may be responsible for after an eligible claim. |
| Theft Cover | Check whether theft protection is included and what conditions apply. |
| Windscreen & Tyres | Check whether glass, tyres, wheels and underbody damage are included. |
| Personal Accident | Check whether personal accident protection is included separately. |
Understand the Fuel Policy
Full to Full
You collect the vehicle with a full tank and return it full. This is often a straightforward option.
Full to Empty
You may pay for a tank of fuel at pickup. Check the company's refund policy for unused fuel.
Electric Charging
For electric vehicles, check the charging requirements and return charge level before booking.
What Does Car Rental Cost?
Rental prices vary according to destination, season, vehicle type, rental duration and availability. The advertised daily rate is only one part of the total cost.
| Cost | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Base Rental | The advertised price for the vehicle and rental period. |
| Insurance | Check included cover, excess and optional protection. |
| Fuel | Check the fuel policy and expected fuel costs. |
| Additional Driver | Some companies charge extra for additional drivers. |
| Child Seats | Child seats may cost extra depending on the provider. |
| Airport Fees | Airport locations may include additional charges. |
Driving a Rental Car Abroad
Driving abroad can be one of the best ways to explore a destination, but you should understand local road rules before collecting the car.
- Check which side of the road you will drive on.
- Understand local speed limits.
- Check toll road arrangements.
- Understand parking rules.
- Check whether an international driving permit is required.
- Learn the local road signs.
- Check whether the rental vehicle can cross borders.
- Save the rental company's emergency contact number.
Car Rental Booking Guide
Compare Vehicle Categories
Compare similar vehicle categories rather than choosing only by brand or model name.
Check Mileage
Check whether the rental includes unlimited mileage or has a daily or total mileage allowance.
Check the Deposit
Find out how much may be held on your payment card and what payment method is accepted.
Check Pickup Instructions
Confirm the exact pickup location, especially when using an airport where the rental desk may be away from the terminal.
Car Rental Booking Checklist
- Correct pickup and return dates
- Correct pickup and return locations
- Suitable vehicle size
- Enough luggage space
- Automatic or manual transmission confirmed
- Fuel policy checked
- Mileage allowance checked
- Insurance and excess checked
- Deposit amount checked
- Additional driver costs checked
- Child seat requirements checked
- Airport or location fees checked
- Driving licence requirements checked
- Cross-border restrictions checked
- Rental terms saved
20 Car Rental Tips
Returning Your Rental Car
Before returning the vehicle, check the agreed return time, fuel or charging requirements and exact drop-off location.
Refuel
Return the vehicle according to the agreed fuel policy and keep your fuel receipt where appropriate.
Inspect the Car
Check the vehicle and take photographs showing its condition when you return it.
Keep the Receipt
Save the final rental documentation until any deposit or outstanding charges have been resolved.
Car Rental FAQs
What is the best car to rent for a holiday?
The best car depends on your group size, luggage, destination and driving plans. Economy cars suit couples and city trips, while larger vehicles are better for families and road trips.
Is it cheaper to rent a car at the airport?
Not always. Airport locations are convenient but can include additional charges. Compare airport and city pickup locations.
Should I rent an economy car?
Economy cars can be a good choice for couples and city holidays, especially when fuel efficiency and easy parking are important.
What is the best rental car for a family?
Families should consider a vehicle with enough rear-seat space, luggage capacity and room for child seats.
Should I rent an SUV?
SUVs can be useful for families, longer journeys and destinations where additional space and ground clearance are useful.
Is automatic or manual better?
Automatic vehicles can be easier in busy cities and unfamiliar destinations, while manual cars may sometimes be cheaper or more widely available.
What is a rental car excess?
The excess is the amount you may be responsible for under the rental agreement if eligible damage or loss occurs.
Do rental cars have unlimited mileage?
Some do and some do not. Always check the mileage allowance before completing your booking.
Can I add another driver?
Many rental companies allow additional drivers, but an extra charge may apply and the additional driver must meet the company's requirements.
Can I rent a car with a child seat?
Many rental companies offer child seats for an additional charge. Availability should be confirmed before booking.
Should I photograph the rental car?
Yes. Taking photographs of the vehicle when collecting and returning it can provide a useful record of its condition.
What should I check before driving away?
Check the vehicle's condition, fuel level, controls, lights, mirrors and any existing damage listed on the rental documentation.
Can I take a rental car across borders?
It depends on the rental company and countries involved. Always obtain permission and check the applicable terms before crossing an international border.
What happens if I return the car late?
Late returns may result in additional charges. Check the rental agreement and contact the company if your plans change.
Is electric car rental a good idea?
Electric cars can work very well where charging infrastructure is convenient. Plan charging stops before longer journeys.
Find the Right Rental Car
Compare vehicle types, rental costs, insurance, fuel policies and practical requirements before booking your next holiday car.
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