The Best Car Rental Sites
Car rental comparison sites check the big brands and local firms at once, often finding much lower rates than going direct. Look at the fuel policy, mileage limits and insurance excess before you book, and photograph the car at pick-up. Airport desks are convenient but usually cost more than city locations.
Who is the cheapest car rental company?
No single brand is always cheapest; prices vary by country, airport and season. Comparison sites such as Rentalcars.com, Discover Cars and Kayak search the major brands and local firms together, and local companies are often the cheapest option, especially in Europe. Among the big brands, Sixt tends to offer the best cars for the money, Enterprise has the most neighbourhood branches in the US, and Hertz and Avis have the widest airport coverage worldwide.
How can I save money on a rental car?
- Book early and keep checking: rental rates rarely penalise cancellation, so rebook if the price drops.
- Pick up away from the airport; city locations avoid airport surcharges.
- Return the car with a full tank and refuse prepaid fuel offers.
- Use your own insurance or a credit card's rental cover instead of the counter's daily waiver, after checking what it covers.
- Avoid one-way rentals and young-driver surcharges where you can.
Do I need the rental company's insurance?
Basic collision damage waivers often come with a large excess (deductible) of 1,000 or more. Rental desks sell extra cover to reduce it, but standalone excess insurance bought online is usually much cheaper, and many premium credit cards include rental car coverage in some countries. Read the terms carefully: tyres, glass and the underside of the car are often excluded.
Is Turo cheaper than renting from a company?
Turo lets you rent cars directly from private owners, much like Airbnb for cars. It is often cheaper for longer rentals and offers cars the big fleets don't, from convertibles to camper-ready SUVs. The trade-offs are less consistent pick-up arrangements and different insurance terms, so read the listing and reviews carefully.
Tips for picking up your rental car
- Photograph or video every side of the car, the fuel gauge and the mileage before you leave.
- Check whether you need an International Driving Permit for the country.
- Ask about toll transponders, which can carry hefty daily fees.
- Allow extra time for airport returns and shuttle buses.