Save on Holiday Car Hire Costs with ReduceMyExcess’s Expert Advice

Friday, July 5, 2024

Last year, 77% of Brits traveled to Europe, with many planning to do so again this summer in their hire cars. However, they may be wasting over £2,028 on unnecessary additional fees, according to new information. A recent comparison by ReduceMyExcess reveals the most common hidden costs and advises travelers on how to avoid them. Here are the top ten charges based on a two-week holiday to Spain, including car rental. The prices have been obtained from Goldcar as a comparison:

Jon Rebuck, co-founder of ReduceMyExcess, said: “We want to ensure that our customers have a stress-free and cost-effective car hire experience, no matter where they are hiring their car.” Jon shared his top five tips for saving money on additional costs:

1. Document Everything
   When collecting a hire car, take videos and photos of the car, including the roof, inside the car doors, undercarriage, boot, wheels, tyres, bumpers, lights, and windows. Charges for damages to the undercarriage and lights alone could cost approximately £1,288. This helps avoid paying for pre-existing marks and damage.
2. Prevent Surprise Cleaning Fees
   Treat the hire car as your own and clean any sand or dirt before returning it. Use photos taken to document damages and contest unwarranted cleaning charges, potentially saving up to £150.
3. Bring Your Own Extras
   Smartphones offer free apps for directions, such as Google Maps and Waze. Check roaming charges and data allowances before traveling. Most airlines allow a pushchair and a car seat or booster as part of luggage for free. Bringing a GPS system and car seat can save up to £200.
4. Decline Extra Insurance
   Taking out a ReduceMyExcess policy means drivers don’t need to accept the car hire companies’ excess waiver or reimbursement insurance, saving up to £250.
5. Be Aware of Mileage Limits
   Understand the rental agreement’s T&Cs regarding mileage limits. For long-distance drives during a holiday, unlimited mileage is preferable, saving up to £140 in overage charges.

By making consumers aware of these hidden fees, they will be well-equipped to navigate the process of hiring a car abroad and take proactive steps to avoid such charges.