Rent a car for less and avoid surprise fees

A rental car can make a trip easier in places with little public transport, like national parks, Iceland or the Italian countryside. It can also cost more than you expect once fees are added. These steps keep the price honest.

Decide if you need one

• In big cities, a car is often a burden. Parking is costly, traffic is slow and trains, metros and ride apps do the job.
• A car makes sense for countryside, coastal drives, national parks and small towns that buses do not reach.
• Consider renting for only part of the trip, for example after you leave the city.

How to find a good price

• Compare several sites in one go. The trip planner on this site opens car searches for you. See Plan and book your trip.
• Book early, especially for summer, holidays and automatic cars. Many bookings can be cancelled for free, so check again closer to the date and rebook if the price drops.
• Compare pickup places. Airport locations are convenient but often add airport fees. A city office a short ride away can be cheaper.
• Weekly rates can cost less than five or six single days.
• Choose the smallest car that fits your luggage. It uses less fuel and is easier to park.

Fees to watch for

• Young driver fee: drivers under 25 often pay extra each day.
• Extra driver fee: adding a second driver can cost per day.
• One-way fee: picking up in one place and returning to another can add a large charge.
• Fuel policy: choose "full to full". You pick up a full tank and return it full. Prepaid fuel is usually more expensive.
• Tolls and passes: ask how tolls are paid. Some countries use electronic devices, and the rental company may add an admin fee.
• Crossing borders: some companies charge or forbid taking the car to another country.
• Equipment: child seats, GPS and extras add up. Your phone can replace the GPS. See Use your phone abroad.

Insurance, in plain words

Rules differ a lot between countries, so ask exactly what is included before you pay.

• Basic third-party liability, which covers damage to others, is usually required by law and often included.
• Collision damage cover for the rental car may be included with a large excess, which is the amount you pay if something happens. Companies often offer extra cover to reduce it.
• Some credit cards include collision cover on rentals. Check your card's rules for the country, the car type and how long you can rent. Call the card company if you are unsure.
• Avoid paying twice for the same cover.
• A separate excess insurance policy from another company can be cheaper than the rental desk's offer. Read what it covers.

Abroad

• Check whether you need an International Driving Permit along with your regular license. Some countries require one.
• Automatic cars are less common and cost more in much of Europe and Asia. Book early if you need one.
• In some places, such as the UK, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, people drive on the left. Take the first hour slowly.
• Credit cards are usually needed for the deposit. Debit cards are often refused.

At pickup and return

1. Walk around the car and take photos or a video of every scratch and dent, inside and out, before you leave the lot.
2. Check that the fuel tank is full and the fuel type is written down.
3. Keep the rental agreement and ask what to do in an accident or breakdown.
4. When you return the car, refuel nearby, take photos again and ask for a receipt confirming no new damage.