How to beat the car hire traps
1. Book well in advance
Some car hire companies at major tourist destinations have cut their fleets drastically in the wake of the recession. This means they have been running out of vehicles at peak times.
It is vital you book your car well in advance rather than arriving at the airport and risking higher prices, or even worse, no car at all.
2. Don't get tricked into extras when you arrive
If you have booked the car in advance and you arrive at the airport, don't get talked into any extras that are not needed.
Most car hire companies will pressure you into signing up for extras when you pick the car up, as you are tired and impatient after the flight and check-in. When you book in advance, just un-tick the extras you know you don't need.
3. Comparing like for like
When looking for the best deal, you can't make a perfect comparison between offers on different websites because few car hire companies guarantee the exact model you will get when you arrive at the airport.
You are usually told the size of the car, the number of doors, air-conditioning and type of fuel. The only way to ensure you are getting the best deal is to research the full details of the contract and add in any extra costs yourself.
4. Look out for excess waiver
Companies that claim to be selling you a car at a 'fully inclusive' price will very often not include the cost of an 'excess waiver.' This is an extra premium you have to pay – usually locally – to avoid being liable for the first few hundred pounds of any repair bill.
The problem is that the amount of the excess and the premium required varies enormously. If you hire regularly it may be better to look for a car with a relatively low excess and take the risk. Or, you can buy an independent insurance policy.
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