5 Pro Car Hire Tips to Maximize Your Holiday Savings

When planning your next holiday, car hire might not be the biggest cost but it’s one cost that can quickly grow if you don’t plan ahead. Beyond choosing a cheap option, there are smart ways to get more for your money while still enjoying comfort, flexibility, and a worry-free trip. Here are five less obvious but highly effective car hire tips to help you save without sacrificing the quality of your travel experience.

1. Use a Prepaid Travel Card for Better Control

Many travellers use their regular credit card at the rental desk, which often comes with foreign exchange fees or high security deposits. Instead, try using a prepaid travel card loaded with your holiday currency. It helps you control your spending and avoid surprise charges. Some providers accept these cards and return deposits faster than standard credit cards.

2. Book a Car That Matches Your Route

Most people focus only on the price but if you're heading into cities with tight streets, paid zones, or low emission areas, not all cars are a good fit. Booking a smaller, fuel-efficient, or hybrid car could save you not only on fuel but also on urban tolls or congestion charges. Check local rules before you book and match the car to your travel plan.

3. Avoid Unused Days, Check for Per-Hour Options

Some travelers book cars for a full extra day just to cover a few hours. But some rental companies offer hourly rentals or flexible return windows. If you're arriving late or departing early, look for providers that allow returns within a certain grace period. This can help you avoid paying for time you don’t use.

4. Ask About Included Roadside Assistance

Breakdowns happen and roadside help can be expensive if it’s not part of your package. Before finalizing your booking, check if emergency help is included for free. Some providers bundle it in without clearly stating it online. If it’s not included, you can often add it for much less when booking through holidaycars.com, rather than waiting until you’re at the counter.

5. Consider Split Rentals for Multi-City Trips

If your trip includes long distances and multiple cities, you may be better off booking two separate rentals instead of one long one. This allows you to take public transport or flights between cities and avoid paying for unused days. You can drop off your first car in one location and pick up another later, saving on both rental time and fuel.

Hiring a car doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right planning, like choosing the best car for your route, managing time better, or using smarter payment options, you can cut costs while enjoying the freedom of the road.