To ensure booking your holiday car hire is a smooth and stress-free experience, below are 5 crucial tips to sidestep potential rip-offs.
Planning for a summer getaway involves anticipation, fun and excitement, but it also requires caution, especially when booking your summer holiday car hire.
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Whether it is the Algarve or the Costas, France or Italy, it is much nicer to have your own transport than have to rely on local bus and coach services.
That is not to imply that there is anything wrong with the respective public transport services, but it is far more convenient and in the long run more enjoyable to be able to travel and explore under your own steam.
But herein lies a potential problem, one that could derail your precious holiday and potentially cost you a small fortune too.
And what exactly are those potential problems?
Put simply, it’s about knowing when’s the best time to book you car hire, getting the best available deals, what to look out for when it comes to fuel policies and avoiding insurance scams and hidden fees.
Let’s dive in and take a look at each one of these easy to follow recommendations listed below:
1. Advance Booking: The Early Bird Gets the Best Deal.
Booking your holiday car hire in advance is a smart move. It not only ensures availability but also allows you to compare prices and secure the best deal. Remember, prices can escalate as the holiday season approaches.
Why Book Early?
The demand for rental cars peaks during the summer holiday season. This surge in demand can lead to a shortage of available vehicles, causing prices to rise. By booking your car hire in advance, you can avoid this price hike and secure your preferred vehicle.
How to Compare Deals
When comparing car hire deals, don’t just look at the headline price. Consider what’s included in the price, such as mileage limits, insurance, and any extras like GPS or child seats. Some comparison websites allow you to filter and sort deals based on these factors, making it easier to find a deal that suits your needs.
2. Fuel Policy: Your Holiday Car Hire Full-to-Full or Full-to-Empty?
Understanding the fuel policy of your car hire company can save you from unexpected expenses. Some companies operate on a ‘full-to-full’ policy, while others use a ‘full-to-empty’ policy. Make sure you know what you’re signing up for.
Full-to-Full Policy
A full-to-full policy means you pick up the car with a full tank of fuel and you return it with a full tank. This policy is straightforward and can save you money, as you only pay for the fuel you use. However, remember to refuel the car before returning it to avoid any refuelling charges.
Full-to-Empty Policy
A full-to-empty policy means you pay for a full tank of fuel upfront and return the car as empty as possible. While this policy can be convenient, it can also be costly, as the car hire company often charges more for the fuel than local petrol stations. Plus, it’s challenging to return the car completely empty, meaning you may end up paying for unused fuel.
3. Damage Inspection: An Ounce of Prevention.
Before you hit the road with your hired car, conduct a thorough inspection for any damage. Any pre-existing damage should be documented in the rental agreement to avoid disputes later.
What to Look For?
When inspecting your holiday car hire, look for any signs of damage both inside and outside the vehicle. This includes scratches, dents, windscreen chips, tyre wear, and interior damage. Don’t forget to check the car’s lights and indicators too.
Documenting Damage
If you find any damage, report it to the car hire company before you leave the premises. Ensure the damage is noted on the rental agreement. It’s also a good idea to take photos or videos of the damage as evidence.
4. Insurance: To Buy or Not to Buy?
Holiday car hire companies often offer their own insurance packages, but they can be pricey. Check if your travel insurance or credit card insurance covers car hire. If so, you can politely decline the company’s offer.
Understanding Car Hire Insurance
Car hire insurance can cover a range of scenarios, including damage to the vehicle, theft, and third-party liability. However, these policies often come with exclusions and high excess charges. Be sure to read the policy terms carefully.
Alternative Insurance Options
Before you buy the car hire company’s insurance, check if you’re already covered elsewhere. Your travel insurance policy or credit card insurance might include car hire cover. Alternatively, you could consider buying a standalone car hire insurance policy, which can be cheaper and offer more comprehensive cover.
5. Hidden Fees: Read the Fine Print.
Hidden fees can take you by surprise when hiring a car for your holiday. These could include charges for additional drivers, young drivers, or out-of-hours pick-up and drop-off. Make sure you’re aware of all potential charges before signing the agreement.
Common Hidden Fees
Some of the common hidden fees in holiday car hire include: additional driver fees, young or senior driver fees, out-of-hours collection and return fees, one-way fees, and charges for extras like GPS, child seats, or roof racks. These fees can add up, so it’s worth checking what’s included in the headline price.
How to Avoid Hidden Fees
The best way to avoid hidden fees is to read the rental agreement carefully. Ask the car hire company to clarify any charges you don’t understand. Also, consider what extras you really need. For example, you might be able to use your phone’s GPS instead of hiring one.
Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Car Hire.
Q: Can I decline the insurance offered by the holiday car hire company?
A: Yes, if your travel insurance or credit card insurance covers car hire, you can decline the company’s offer.
Q: What should I do if I find damage on my holiday car hire at pick-up?
A: Report it immediately to the car hire company and ensure it’s noted on the rental agreement.
Q: Are there any advantages to booking a holiday car hire well in advance?
A: Yes, early booking not only ensures availability but also allows you to secure the best deal.
Just Remember…
Being informed and prepared can help you avoid holiday car hire rip-offs. With these 5 tips, you can enjoy a smooth and cost-effective car hire experience for your next summer holiday.
We understand the challenges that come with hiring a car for your holiday and regularly update this blog with useful tips and advice, helping you make informed decisions about your holiday car hire.
So whether it’s understanding fuel policies, insurance options, or hidden fees, we’ve got you fully covered.
A well-planned holiday car hire can enhance your holiday experience, providing the freedom to explore at your own pace.
So, plan ahead, stay informed, and drive happy with the Get Car Hire crew.