Finding affordable car hire deals can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But after years of renting cars across Europe and beyond, I’ve cracked the code. Whether you need a compact car for city driving or a spacious SUV for a family trip, these 10 proven tips will save you money and hassle.
1. Book Early to Secure the Best Rates
The earlier you book, the better your chances of finding cheap car hire deals. Rental companies often increase prices as availability drops. I once saved over 30% by booking three months in advance for a trip to Spain. Use comparison tools like Kayak or Rentalcars.com to track price trends.
2. Avoid Airport Pick-Up Locations
Airport rentals come with hefty surcharges. On a trip to Lisbon, I paid £15 less per day by picking up my car from a downtown location instead of the airport. Check nearby rental offices—sometimes a short taxi ride can lead to big savings.
3. Compare Prices Across Multiple Platforms
Never rely on a single website. I always cross-check prices on:
- Skyscanner
- Auto Europe
- Local rental company sites
A five-minute search once saved me £120 on a week-long rental in Italy.
4. Use Loyalty Programs and Discount Codes
Sign up for car hire loyalty schemes like Hertz Gold Plus or Avis Preferred. I’ve also stacked discounts by using codes from:
- Student/university promotions
- Credit card perks
- Membership clubs (e.g., AA, Costco)
A simple Google search for “[Rental Company] + discount code UK” can reveal hidden deals.
5. Opt for Longer Rental Periods
Many companies offer lower daily rates for weekly rentals. On a recent trip to France, renting for seven days instead of five reduced my total cost by 20%. Always check if extending your rental cuts the per-day price.
6. Skip the Extras (They Add Up Fast)
Insurance, GPS, and child seats can double your bill. I use my phone for navigation and rely on my credit card’s free rental insurance (check terms first). If you need extras, pre-book them online—it’s often cheaper.
7. Choose the Right Car for Your Needs
A smaller car isn’t just cheaper to rent—it also saves on fuel. In cities like London or Rome, a compact car is easier to park. For rural trips, a diesel model may offer better mileage.
8. Check Fuel Policies Carefully
A full-to-full policy is usually the cheapest. Avoid pre-purchase fuel options—they’re rarely cost-effective. I once overpaid by £40 because I didn’t refill before returning the car.
9. Read Reviews to Avoid Hidden Fees
Some companies charge for minor scratches or late returns. I always check Trustpilot reviews before booking. A poorly rated agency might offer low upfront costs but hit you with surprise charges later.
10. Consider Local Rental Companies
Global brands aren’t always the best. In Greece, a local rental firm gave me a 30% discount compared to international chains. Use sites like Localrent to find regional deals.
Final Thoughts
With these 10 genius hacks, you’ll never overpay for car hire again. From booking early to avoiding airport fees, every tip comes from real experience—and real savings. Next time you need a rental, put these strategies to work and keep more cash in your pocket.
Need more help? Check the latest deals on MoneySavingExpert for extra tips.
This guide is packed with actionable, tested advice to help you find the cheapest car hire deals without compromising quality. Follow these steps, and you’ll drive away with both savings and peace of mind.
