Car rental guide: Tips, hacks and how to save up to 75%
Car rental doesn’t have to be confusing or expensive—just a few smart moves can save you money and stress from the start.
On the surface, renting a car feels easy—pick one, sign, and drive. Done. But a hassle-free car rental depends on what you don’t see upfront: vague policies, hidden charges, and timing tricks that can quietly wreck your budget. A few smart moves now? They’ll save you stress and money in the long run. Let’s break it down.
This article contains affiliate links.
How to rent a car
Renting a car for the first time? Yeah, it can feel like you’re walking into a game where everyone knows the rules but you. What documents do you actually need? Do you need to buy their insurance? Will they charge you for not returning it with a full tank?
This guide breaks it down without the fluff — just real, practical stuff to help you rent a car smoothly, save a few bucks, and skip the rookie mistakes. The goal? Get you on the road fast, so you can focus on your trip, not the paperwork.
What to know when booking your rental car
Compare prices. Don’t just grab the first rate you see. Use sites like Visitteo to scout for deals across multiple rental companies. In most cases, you will find the same car with different prices on Visitteo. Take five minutes now, save fifty bucks later. It’s not about loyalty — it’s about logic.
Understand rental costs. That daily rate might look nice, but it’s only the tip of the bill. Add-ons sneak in: insurance upsells, young driver surcharges, extra driver fees, fuel charges — the works. Break it all down before you book so you’re not sitting at the counter with that “wait, what?” face.
Check rental requirements. You’ll need a valid driver’s license, a passport, and usually a credit card in your name. Got a non-Latin license? You’ll probably need an International Driving Permit too. Miss one, and guess what? No car for you. Better to check now than argue with a desk agent later.
Choose the right insurance. Rental agents will pitch you their insurance like it’s a hot new phone plan. Compare their coverage with what your credit card or travel insurance already provides. Consider excess cover or CDW if it keeps you from paying thousands later. It’s not overthinking — it’s just thinking.
Read the terms and conditions. I know, I know. Nobody wants to read terms and conditions. But if you miss the part about mileage limits or fuel policies, it could cost you. Make sure you understand the drop-off rules, too. You’re not signing up for mystery charges — you’re just renting a car. Be sure.
Tips when picking up a rental car
Inspect the car. Before you even start the engine, inspect the car like it’s evidence in a crime show. Dents, scratches, weird smudges — photograph everything. Even the wheels. Even the roof. If it’s there now, and you don’t record it, they might say you did it. Don’t trust memory — trust your camera.
Check the fuel level. Look at the fuel gauge before leaving the lot. If the agreement says “full tank,” it better be full — not “kinda full” or “eh, close enough.” Snap a quick photo of the dashboard. Those 30 seconds can save you a heated argument (or worse, a bogus refueling fee).
Familiarize yourself with the controls. You don’t want to figure out the wipers during a downpour or fumble with the headlights on a dark road. Take two minutes to learn the basics — lights, signals, mirrors, gearshift, and that weird European parking brake. It’s not your car, sure, but it’s your responsibility now.
Tips when dropping off a rental car
Refuel according to policy. Before returning the car, check the fuel policy. If it’s “full-to-full,” fill it up right before drop-off — not 20 miles away. Rental companies charge wild per-gallon rates if you miss it. Save the receipt, snap a photo of the gauge, and keep your wallet out of their hands.
Return the car on time. Late returns aren’t cute — they’re costly. Some companies charge by the hour, others slap on a full extra day for being 30 minutes over. Plan for traffic, pad your schedule, and avoid that anxious “will they charge me?” moment at the counter. Time is money in this case.
Inspect the car before returning. Do a final walkaround. Seriously. That tiny scratch you didn’t notice this morning? They will. Check the bumpers, the windshield, and even the rims. Take photos again — just like when you picked it up. Think of it as the exit interview: quick, necessary, and possibly the thing that saves you later.
How to save up to 75% on car rental with Visitteo?
Price comparison
One of the easiest ways to slash your rental cost is by comparing prices across all major car rental companies in one spot. Instead of jumping between 10 browser tabs, platforms like Visitteo show you everything — all cars, all deals, side by side. When you’ve got that many options in front of you, the price gaps become obvious. And yep, the savings can be huge — sometimes up to 75% off the standard rate. Visitteo has one of the largest car rental offers in the world.
Same car, different prices
Here’s something most people don’t realize: the exact same car — same company, same pickup location — can have different prices depending on where you book it. Visitteo partners with multiple rental comparison platforms, so it pulls deals from all of them at once. That means you might find a better rate for the same vehicle just by booking through a different channel. No gimmicks, just smarter access to hidden prices others don’t show you.
How Visitteo works
Car rental prices come in layers. Agencies like Hertz or Avis set the base rates. Platforms like Discover Cars and EconomyBookings gather those offers. Visitteo goes further—pulling live deals from all platforms, comparing them side by side, and exposing hidden price gaps. Same car, different sites, different prices. Visitteo finds the cheapest car hire deals—every time. And the best part? You don’t have to search anywhere else.
Finding cheap car hire isn’t just about hunting for deals — it’s about knowing where to look. Check out the guide on how and where to find cheap car hire for all the smart shortcuts.
Other trusted sites where you can find car rental
Discover Cars
Booking a rental shouldn’t feel like decoding airline fees — and with Discover Cars, it doesn’t. You get global and local options in one fast, clutter-free search. Real reviews? Yep. No buried fees? Also yep. Whether you’re locking in months ahead or grabbing keys last minute, this platform keeps it simple, honest, and stress-free.
EconomyBookings
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes options — and a lot of them — EconomyBookings has you covered. With over 20,000 rental locations and deals from budget to luxury, it’s built for flexibility. The layout’s clean, the filters work, and the variety makes it easy to find what fits, fast.
Why renting a car doesn’t have to be expensive
Think renting a car has to drain your wallet? Not quite. It’s not about chasing the cheapest deal — it’s about sidestepping the sneaky costs. Things like overpriced insurance, fuel penalties, or that “mandatory” upgrade you didn’t ask for. Compare prices, book early, and read everything before signing.
Most people overspend because they rush. You don’t have to. Want a smarter way to do it? This guide on how to rent a car without getting slammed by extra fees lays it out clearly — no fluff, just sharp advice that helps.
How to avoid rental car fees
Read the contract. Buried in every rental agreement are the fees waiting to catch you off guard—mileage caps, admin charges, and leaning penalties. Don’t just skim the contract—read it. Know what you’re signing. It’s not exciting, but it’s cheaper than paying for something you didn’t even know you agreed to. Knowledge beats surprise every time.
Gas and electric vehicle fees. Prepaying for a full tank sounds like a deal—but unless you drain it bone-dry, you’re just giving free gas back. Better to fill it yourself before drop-off. The same goes for EVs: don’t return it with less charge. Either way, low fuel means sky-high fees. Plan, save cash.
Damage fees. Rushing? Still—take a minute and scan the car. Pre-rental inspections miss stuff. Post-rental? They spot everything. That door ding you didn’t cause? It’s yours now—unless you documented it. Not about trust; it’s about covering yourself. Snap photos, walk the car, and treat it like it’s already trying to charge you.
Airport concession fees. Airport rentals feel convenient—but that convenience comes with a fee. Literally. Agencies pay to operate on airport grounds, and you cover that cost. Want to skip it? Rent in the city instead. It’s usually cheaper. Just budget time to get back for your flight without panic-checking your watch.
What documents do you need to rent a car?
Driver’s license. Sounds obvious, but your license needs to be valid, not expired, and issued in your name. Some companies even have minimum age and license duration requirements—like holding it for at least a year. International traveler. Better to show up overprepared than be told “no.”
Credit card. Most rental agencies require a credit card in your name for the security deposit. Debit cards? Some accept them, but with extra hoops. No card at all? That’s a problem. Also, make sure your card limit can handle the hold—it’s often hundreds. Getting declined at the counter isn’t how you want to start a trip.
Passport or national ID. Some agencies ask for additional ID, especially if you’re renting abroad. A passport usually does the trick, even if you’re not crossing borders. In some countries, it’s required. Think of it as the rental version of “check your papers.” Quick to carry, saves a lot of trouble if they suddenly ask for it.
International Driving Permit. If your license isn’t in Roman characters (think Arabic, Cyrillic, or Chinese), many rental companies will ask for an International Driving Permit (IDP). It’s basically a translation of your license, not a replacement. Some countries require it by law. Skip it, and you might be denied at the counter—no car, no refund, no fun.
Useful tips when renting a car
Book early. Waiting till the last minute? Expect higher prices—and slim pickings. That sporty hatchback you had in mind? Gone. You’re probably looking at a cargo van or something with roll-down windows. Prices spike fast, especially during peak seasons. Book early, lock in the car you want, and avoid the leftovers no one else grabbed.
Don’t assume insurance is required. They’ll make it sound like you have to buy insurance on the spot. You don’t. Many credit cards offer coverage if you use them to book, and your personal auto policy might extend to rentals. Don’t pay double just because someone’s giving you the hard sell. Check what you’re already covered for—before you hand over cash.
Take photos. Before you drive off, snap photos of everything—scratches, dents, chipped paint, even the dashboard. Same when you return it. Don’t assume the agent noticed that scuff already. If they miss it now, they’ll find it later—and you’ll be paying for it. Time-stamped photos are your best defense against mystery damage claims.
Know the fuel policy. Full-to-full sounds simple: return the car with a full tank. But if you forget, get ready for refueling charges that’ll make you wince. Prepaid fuel? It’s a trap unless you plan to empty the tank. EVs aren’t safe either—return with a low battery, and you’ll get hit with surprise charging fees. Plan ahead.
Skip the extras. Rental counters are built for upselling—GPS, roadside help, satellite radio. Looks useful, but adds up fast. Navigation? Use your phone. Emergencies? Your travel insurance probably has that covered. If you didn’t ask for it, you likely don’t need it. Be polite, firm, and clear: “No thanks” can save you real money.
Know local driving rules. Just because you can drive doesn’t mean you know the rules where you’re going. Different countries have different laws, signs, and driving habits. What’s polite in one place might earn you a ticket in another. A 10-minute Google search now saves you stress, fines, or that awkward moment in a roundabout.
Car rental insurance explained
What is included
Most rental car insurance includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection. So if the car’s stolen or you ding a door, you’re usually just liable for the excess. Sounds decent—but it’s limited. Don’t mistake “basic” for “complete.” It won’t cover everything, and skipping the fine print can cost you later.
What is not included
Here’s what basic coverage leaves out: tires, windows, mirrors, roof, undercarriage—basically, all the parts that are most likely to get wrecked. Personal belongings? Not covered either. And if you hit someone or damage their property, that’s a whole separate liability policy. So yeah, “included” coverage isn’t exactly all-inclusive. Know your gaps.
Do I need car rental insurance?
Maybe not. If your personal car insurance or credit card already covers rentals, you could be set. But here’s the kicker—coverage depends on the country, the rental type, and your card’s small print. Call your insurer. Call your bank. Don’t just assume you’re good. And definitely don’t let the rental desk bully you into panic-buying.
Do I need road assistance for a car rental?
Depends on where you’re going. If you break down in the middle of nowhere or get a flat in the rain, roadside help goes from “optional” to “wish I had it.” Some credit cards include it, others don’t. If you’re renting far from cities, it’s worth the extra few bucks for peace of mind.
Good to know
Airports vs downtown rates
Renting at the airport feels like the smart move—grab your bags, grab your car, done. But those “convenience” fees? Not so convenient. Airport rentals come with built-in costs that downtown locations skip. Even with a short Uber ride, off-airport branches are often way cheaper. Same car, same company, just minus the markup. If saving money matters more than saving 15 minutes, skip the terminal counter.
Local vs national providers
Sure, the big players like Hertz or Sixt offer predictability. You know the drill. But you’re also paying for that polished brand experience. Local rental companies? Less shine, more savings. Yes, service might vary—but so can the price, by a lot. Many local providers deliver solid value, clean cars, and fewer upsells. Just check reviews, scan the terms, and you might score a better deal without the corporate price tag.
Additional drivers
Want to share the driving? Most rental companies allow it, but it’s rarely free. Expect a daily fee for every extra driver, unless it’s your spouse or partner (sometimes they’re included). Always add drivers to the contract—if someone unlisted gets in an accident, insurance won’t cover it. Better safe than sorry.
Cancellation policy
Plans change, but rental rules can be tricky. Some companies offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, while others keep part of your deposit. Prepaid rentals are usually stricter. Always read the cancellation policy carefully before booking—it’s the difference between a quick refund and money down the drain.
Don’t miss these car rental guides
A cheap car rental can feel like a win… until local rules and sneaky fees turn it into the most expensive part of your trip. The truth? Every country plays by its rulebook. Here’s where to get the inside scoop before you book.
Croatia. Stunning coastal highways and national park detours. Our car rental guide for Croatia covers border rules and why you should check ferry restrictions before planning island-hopping by car.
Italy. Beauty, chaos, and traffic zones that seem designed to trip up tourists. Our guide to renting a car in Italy explains ZTL areas, confusing parking rules, and how to avoid the dreaded fine that appears months later.
Greece. Tight island streets, ferry schedules, and rental insurance that work differently than you expect. Our Greece car rental guide breaks down the essentials, from fuel prices to toll roads, so you’re ready before the engine even starts.
Germany. Fast lanes, fast drivers, and rules that don’t forgive ignorance. Our guide to renting a car in Germany covers license requirements, speed limits (yes, even on the Autobahn), and those low-emission zones in major cities. You’ll also pick up small but vital tips, like how self-service fuel stations work after hours.
Portugal. Gorgeous coastal drives, electronic tolls, and parking rules that shift from town to town. Our guide for renting a car in Portugal explains it all, plus how to dodge the upsells and still keep your cheap car rental fully insured.
Spain. Airport surcharges, one-way fees, and driving customs vary by region. Our Spain car rental guide shows you how to avoid the traps—and why renting on a Monday might cost less than starting on a Friday.
France. Roundabouts, toll booths, and speed cameras tucked behind hedges. A guide for renting a car in France helps you navigate them, while also explaining cross-border paperwork and fuel station quirks that can throw off unprepared travelers.
FAQs
Start by comparing across multiple platforms—aggregators like Visitteo put dozens of companies side by side. Check both the airport and downtown branches, as city locations often run cheaper. Booking early helps too, since prices rise fast when availability drops. Flexibility with pickup times can also shave off a chunk.
Yes, but it’ll cost you. Most agencies rent to drivers 21–24, sometimes even 18 in Europe, but they tack on a “young driver surcharge.” Expect anywhere from $10 to $30 per day, depending on the country and company. It’s basically an age tax—legal, annoying, and unavoidable.
Often, yes. Many travel credit cards include rental insurance if you pay with them, and some personal auto policies extend coverage. But details matter: country restrictions, vehicle types, and exclusions can apply. Always call your card issuer or insurer first. If coverage is confirmed, you can skip the rental desk upsell.
After-hours returns are common—just use the key drop box. The risk? You’re responsible until staff check the car, so always take photos at drop-off. Different-location returns (one-way rentals) are possible, too, but usually come with hefty fees. Always confirm these terms upfront so you’re not blindsided later.
Most rental companies hold your car for a short window, often one to two hours. Some extend the hold if you provided flight details when booking. Still, it’s not guaranteed. Always include your flight info and, if delayed badly, call the branch. Better safe than arriving carless at midnight.
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Rules vary wildly by company and region. In Europe, crossing into neighboring countries is often fine, but taking a car into Eastern Europe might be restricted. Always check the rental agreement and get written approval. Crossing without permission could void insurance entirely—meaning every dent is on you.
CDW limits your liability if the rental car gets damaged, but it usually leaves an “excess”—a chunk you still pay. Full coverage removes or greatly reduces that excess, and often adds extras like tire or glass protection. In short, CDW is basic; full coverage is closer to worry-free.
Tricky, but sometimes possible. A few companies accept debit cards, though they may demand proof of return travel, run a credit check, or add extra holds. Smaller agencies sometimes allow cash, but it’s rare. If you want less hassle, a credit card is the safest bet.
Many rentals come with unlimited mileage, especially in North America and Western Europe. But some cheaper deals cap your daily distance, with steep charges for going over. Road-tripping? Double-check the mileage policy before booking. Unlimited sounds boring, but it’s freedom—restricted mileage can turn into a pricey surprise.
When you pick up the car, the company places a hold on your card—usually hundreds of dollars. It’s not charged unless you damage the car, miss fuel, or break the rules. After the return, the hold is released, but it can take up to a week, depending on your bank.
Usually not. The primary renter must present a credit card in their name, since it’s tied to the contract and deposit. Want to use someone else’s card? They’d need to be listed as the main driver. Otherwise, rental desks will almost always decline the payment.
