Planning a summer holiday can be one of the most exciting times of the year. Whether you’re jetting off to explore the sun-soaked beaches of Spain or embarking on a scenic road trip through the countryside, the freedom of a hire car can enhance your experience. However, the joy of driving through new destinations can quickly turn sour when hidden car hire costs sneak up on you. Imagine setting aside a portion of your budget for fun activities, only to have it drained by unexpected fees. But don’t worry – with a bit of savvy and insider knowledge, you can steer clear of these financial pitfalls. save on car hire fees

We’ve gathered expert tips and tricks to help you avoid unnecessary charges and keep your travel budget intact. From understanding damage charges to bringing your own extras, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and ensure your car hire experience is as smooth as your holiday should be.

The Hidden Costs of Car Hire

When you hire a car, the initial price might seem reasonable, but hidden fees can add up fast. A recent study by ReduceMyExcess revealed that Brits could waste over £2,028 on unnecessary additional fees during a two-week holiday to Spain. Here are some of the most common hidden costs and how to avoid them.

Common Car Hire Fees

1. Damage Charges
   • Undercarriage Damage: €1,448 / £1,224
   • Windscreen and Windows: €1,111 / £939
   • Roof: €1,290 / £1,090
   • Lights: €1,345 / £1,136
   • Tyres: €899 / £759
2. Unnecessary Extras
   • €1,127 / £952
3. Insurance Charges
   • €893 / £754
4. Mileage Charges
   • €792 / £669 (based on driving 28km per day)
5. Cleaning Fees
   • €784 / £662
6. Young Driver Charge
   • €754 / £637
7. Admin Fees
   • €50 if involved in an accident / £578
8. Fuel Charges
   • €50 / £578
9. Upgrade Charges
   • €651 / £550
10. Late Fees
    • €40 + 1 day rental / £72

Top Tips to Avoid Car Hire Fees

Document Everything

1. Capture Photos and Videos
When you pick up your hire car, take detailed photos and videos of the vehicle. This includes the roof, inside the car doors, undercarriage, inside the boot, wheels, tyres, bumpers, lights, and windows. Documenting the car’s condition can help you avoid paying for pre-existing damages, potentially saving you £1,288.

Prevent Surprise Cleaning Fees

2. Keep the Car Clean
Treat the hire car as you would your own vehicle. Clean out any sand, dirt, or rubbish before returning it. If the hire company tries to charge a cleaning fee, use your photos to contest the charges, saving up to £150.

Bring Your Own Extras

3. Pack Essential Items
Instead of paying for extras at the car hire desk, bring your own. Use free navigation apps on your smartphone, like Google Maps or Waze, and ensure you have an appropriate roaming plan. Many airlines allow a pushchair and a car seat or booster for free as part of your luggage. Bringing your own GPS system and car seat can save up to £200.

Decline Extra Insurance

4. Opt for Third-Party Insurance
Consider taking out a ReduceMyExcess policy. This means you can decline the car hire company’s excess waiver or reimbursement insurance, saving up to £250.

Be Aware of Mileage Limits

5. Understand Mileage Terms
Read the rental agreement thoroughly to understand mileage limits. If you plan on doing a lot of driving, opt for a rental with unlimited mileage. This could save you up to £140 in charges for exceeding the stated miles.

Detailed Breakdown of Common Car Hire Fees

Damage Charges

Hiring a car comes with the risk of damage, and fees for repairs can be astronomical. Here’s a closer look at what you might be charged:

• Undercarriage Damage: €1,448 (£1,224) – This is often caused by rough terrain or speed bumps.
• Windscreen and Windows: €1,111 (£939) – A common issue from road debris.
• Roof Damage: €1,290 (£1,090) – Often overlooked but can occur from low-hanging branches or car parks.
• Lights: €1,345 (£1,136) – Easily damaged but costly to fix.
• Tyres: €899 (£759) – Potholes and sharp objects can lead to punctures.

Unnecessary Extras

Car hire companies often push additional services and products. Here’s what to watch out for:

• GPS Units: You might be charged around €10 per day for a GPS unit. Using your smartphone can avoid this fee.
• Child Seats: Bringing your own can save a significant amount, as rental fees can be exorbitant.

Insurance Charges

Standard insurance might not cover everything. Here’s a breakdown of what you might face:

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Often included, but not comprehensive.
• Super CDW: Reduces excess but comes at a premium.
• Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses but might be redundant if you have travel insurance.

Mileage Charges

Driving beyond the set mileage limit can incur extra costs:

• Per Kilometer Charges: Typically around €0.10-€0.20 per extra km.
• Unlimited Mileage Option: Often worth it for longer trips.

Cleaning Fees

Avoid cleaning fees by keeping the car tidy:

• Return Condition: Ensure the car is as clean as when you picked it up.
• Dispute Charges: Use photos to dispute any unfair cleaning fees.

Young Driver Charge

Drivers under 25 often face additional charges:

• Daily Fees: Can add up to €30 per day.
• Age Limits: Some companies have higher age limits for certain vehicles.

Admin Fees

In the event of an accident, admin fees can be hefty:

• Processing Fees: Around €50 for handling paperwork.
• Reporting Fees: Additional charges for filing reports.

Fuel Charges

Fuel policies vary, but here’s what to watch out for:

• Full-to-Full: Best option as you only pay for what you use.
• Prepaid Fuel: Often more expensive as you’re paying for a full tank upfront.

Upgrade Charges

Getting a better car sounds great, but it comes at a cost:

• Daily Upgrade Fees: Can be around €10-€20 per day.
• Negotiate at Pickup: Sometimes you can get a free upgrade if they’re short on cars.

Late Fees save on car hire fees

Returning the car late can incur penalties:

• Hourly Rates: Charged at the daily rate, even for just an hour over.
• Grace Period: Some companies offer a short grace period, but don’t rely on it.

How to Avoid Common Car Hire Pitfalls

Choose the Right Rental Company

Not all car hire companies are created equal. Here’s what to consider:

• Reputation: Check reviews and ratings.
• Policies: Understand their fee structure and policies.
• Customer Service: Good customer service can make a big difference.

Plan Ahead save on car hire fees

Booking in advance can save money and stress:

• Early Booking Discounts: Many companies offer discounts for early bookings.
• Availability: Ensure you get the car you want by booking early.

Read the Fine Print

Understanding the terms and conditions can save you from unexpected costs:

• Contract Details: Pay attention to the small print.
• Hidden Fees: Look out for any additional fees not mentioned upfront.

Use Credit Card Benefits

Some credit cards offer car hire insurance:

• Coverage: Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance.
• Savings: This can save you from purchasing additional insurance.

Return the Car on Time

Avoid late fees by planning your return:

• Allow Extra Time: Factor in traffic and other delays.
• Check Opening Hours: Make sure the rental office will be open when you return the car.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of car hire can be tricky, but with these tips, you can avoid hidden fees and keep your holiday stress-free. Remember to document everything, bring your own extras, and understand the terms of your rental agreement. By being prepared, you can save money and enjoy your holiday without any unpleasant surprises. save on car hire fees