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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, discover the truth behind common car hire myths with expert advice, ensuring a stress-free and cost-effective rental experience for your next adventure.
Hiring a car is one of the most liberating ways to explore a new destination. With the freedom to set your own itinerary and venture off the beaten path, a rental car can transform a trip into an adventure. However, misconceptions about the car hire process can lead to confusion, unexpected costs, and unnecessary stress.
To help you navigate the world of car rentals with confidence, Ed Sharp, Head of Car Hire at TravelSupermarket, has debunked some of the most common myths. By understanding the truth behind these myths and taking proactive steps, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective car hire experience.
Car Hire Myths
Myth 1: You Must Buy the Rental Company’s Insurance
One of the biggest misconceptions about car hire is that you’re obligated to purchase the rental company’s insurance policy. In reality, you may already have coverage through other sources, such as your credit card provider or personal insurance policy. Many credit cards offer rental car insurance as a perk, covering damage or theft, provided you use the card to pay for the rental. Similarly, your personal auto insurance or travel insurance may extend to rental cars, depending on the policy.
Advice: Before you arrive at the rental counter, contact your credit card provider and insurance company to confirm what’s covered. Ask specific questions about collision damage waivers (CDW), liability coverage, and theft protection. If your existing coverage is sufficient, you can confidently decline the rental company’s insurance, potentially saving £10-£30 per day. However, ensure you have written confirmation of your coverage, as some rental companies may request proof. Be cautious with international rentals, as coverage from your home country may not always apply abroad. If you do need to purchase insurance, compare the rental company’s offerings with third-party providers, which may offer similar protection at a lower cost.
Myth 2: You Can Drive a Rental Car Anywhere
Many travellers assume that a rental car grants unlimited freedom to roam, including crossing international borders. However, rental agreements often include territorial restrictions that limit where you can drive. Taking a car into an unauthorised country or region could void your insurance and leave you liable for any damages or fines.
Advice: If your travel plans involve crossing borders, inform the rental company when booking. Each company has its own list of authorised countries, and some may charge an additional fee for cross-border travel, typically £20-£50, to cover insurance adjustments. For example, a car rented in France may be permitted in Germany or Spain but restricted in Eastern European countries. Always review the rental agreement’s fine print and ask for written confirmation of permitted destinations. If you’re planning a multi-country road trip, consider renting from a company with flexible policies or one that operates across multiple countries, such as major chains like Hertz or Enterprise. Failing to disclose your plans could result in hefty penalties or denied coverage in an accident.
Myth 3: Returning the Car with a Full Tank Avoids All Fees
The belief that returning a rental car with a full tank guarantees no fuel-related charges is only partially true. The reality depends on the rental company’s fuel policy, which varies widely. Common policies include full-to-full (return with a full tank), same-to-same (return with the same fuel level as pick-up), full-to-empty (pay for a full tank upfront, no refund for unused fuel), and others with refund options or free tanks.
Advice: Always clarify the fuel policy before signing the rental agreement. The full-to-full policy is often the most cost-effective, as you only pay for the fuel you use. However, ensure there’s a petrol station near the return location to avoid last-minute stress. For same-to-same, take a photo of the fuel gauge at pick-up to document the starting level, as disputes can arise. Avoid full-to-empty policies unless you’re certain you’ll use most of the fuel, as you’ll lose money on unused petrol. If the policy involves refunds (pre-purchased with full or partial refund), check the service charge, which can reduce your savings. Some companies offer a free tank as a promotion, but these are rare and may come with higher base rates. To avoid surprises, factor fuel costs into your budget and choose a policy that aligns with your travel plans.
Myth 4: Every Rental Company Requires a Credit Card for Deposits
It’s a common assumption that a credit card is mandatory for car hire deposits due to the need for a security hold. While most rental companies prefer credit cards for their ease of processing, many now accept debit cards, and some even allow cash deposits in specific cases.
Advice: Before booking, check the rental company’s payment policy on their website or by calling their customer service line. If you don’t have a credit card, look for providers like Enterprise or Thrifty, which often accept debit cards, though they may require additional checks, such as proof of address or a higher deposit. Be aware that debit card holds can tie up funds in your account for days or weeks, so ensure you have sufficient balance. Cash deposits are less common and may be limited to smaller, local agencies, often with stricter conditions. To avoid complications, book with a company whose payment options match your preferences, and always confirm the deposit amount and refund timeline in advance.
Myth 5: The Cheapest Rental Price Is Always the Best Deal
A low advertised price can be tempting, but it’s rarely the full story. Budget rentals often exclude extras like insurance, taxes, or mileage limits, leading to hidden costs that inflate the final bill. Limited mileage deals, for example, may charge £0.20-£0.50 per extra kilometre, quickly erasing any initial savings.
Advice: When comparing prices, look beyond the headline rate. Use comparison sites like TravelSupermarket to see the total cost, including mandatory fees and optional add-ons like GPS or child seats. Read the terms and conditions to check for mileage caps (e.g., 100 km/day), excess insurance fees, or young driver surcharges (often £20-£40/day for drivers under 25). A slightly higher upfront price with unlimited mileage or included insurance may be cheaper overall. Also, consider the car’s fuel efficiency—compact models save on petrol compared to SUVs. By calculating the true cost, you can avoid a deal that looks good on paper but ends up costing more.
Myth 6: Returning a Car at the Airport Is Always More Expensive
Airport rental locations are notorious for surcharges, typically £20-£50, due to convenience and higher operating costs. However, assuming off-airport locations are always cheaper can lead to missed opportunities. Transport costs to non-airport sites or limited availability may offset any savings.
Advice: Compare airport and off-airport prices using booking platforms, factoring in additional costs like taxi fares or shuttle times to reach non-airport locations. For example, a £30 airport surcharge might be less than a £40 taxi ride to a city centre branch. Airport locations often have larger fleets and better availability, especially during peak seasons, and may offer exclusive discounts through loyalty programs or partnerships. If you’re flying in and out, returning at the airport can also save time, which is valuable on a tight schedule. Weigh convenience, cost, and availability to make the best choice for your trip.
Myth 7: You Can Return the Car Late If You Call Ahead
Many renters believe that a quick call to the rental company can excuse a late return. However, most companies enforce strict return policies, and being even 30 minutes late can trigger a full day’s rental charge, often £50-£100, depending on the car.
Advice: Plan your return with a buffer to account for traffic, refuelling, or unexpected delays. Check the rental agreement for the exact return time and any grace period (typically 29 minutes). If you anticipate a delay, contact the company as soon as possible to explore options, such as extending the rental for an additional day, which may be cheaper than a late fee. Some companies allow extensions online or via their app, but confirm the cost and update your agreement in writing. To avoid stress, choose a return time that aligns with your schedule, such as mid-morning rather than rush hour.
Myth 8: Anyone Insured Can Drive the Rental Car
A common myth is that any insured driver can take the wheel of a rental car. In fact, only drivers explicitly listed on the rental agreement are authorised to drive. If an unlisted driver operates the vehicle and an accident occurs, the rental company may void insurance coverage, leaving the main renter liable for damages.
Advice: When booking, provide the names and details of all potential drivers, including their driving licence numbers. Most companies charge an additional driver fee, typically £5-£15 per day, but this is far cheaper than the risk of uncovered damages, which could run into thousands. Ensure all drivers meet the company’s age and licence requirements, as restrictions may apply (e.g., minimum age of 21 or 2 years of driving experience). If you’re unsure who might drive, add extra drivers at booking to keep your options open, and verify their inclusion on the agreement at pick-up. Taking this precaution ensures peace of mind and full compliance with the rental terms.
Conclusion
Hiring a car should enhance your travel experience, not add stress or unexpected costs. By debunking these common myths, you can approach the car hire process with clarity and confidence. Always research your options, read the fine print, and ask questions before signing the agreement. Whether it’s checking insurance coverage, understanding fuel policies, or confirming payment methods, a little preparation goes a long way. With these insights from Ed Sharp and a proactive mindset, you’re ready to hit the road and enjoy a seamless, stress-free journey wherever your travels take you.
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