Planning on a fly-drive holiday? Using a rental car allows you to travel with less stress. But pay attention to details: some carelessness could ruin your holiday.

A bit like with the purchase of flights, it is good to pay attention to the various taxes and accompanying services – sometimes mandatory – at the time of purchase.

We have drawn up a handbook of advice for a rental that is surprise-proof.

• Save money compared to renting locally
• Choose the vehicle that suits your needs without being limited to the options available

• Consider prioritizing convenience or savings
• Think about whether you’re in a hurry, need a large trunk, or are going on a long journey
• Keep in mind that you cannot choose a specific car model, but instead select from a category that groups similar models by passenger capacity and baggage allowance

MDMR (Mini) Pax 5

Fiat Panda 1.2 or similar

JGMR (Intermediate Elite) Pax 5, Luggage 5

Jeep Renegade 1.6 or similar

EDMR (Economy) Pax 5, Luggage 3

Renault Clio or similar

CWMR (Compact Wagon) Pax 5, Luggage 5

Ford Focus SW or similar

CDMR (Compact) Pax 5, Luggage 3

FIAT 500X 1.0/1.3 or similar

PDMD (Premium) Pax 5, Luggage 3

AUDI A6 or similar

IDAR (Intermediate) Pax 5, Luggage 5

AUDI A3 or similar

PVMD (Premium Van) Pax 9, Luggage 5

VW CARAVELLE or similar

• Include unlimited mileage, collision damage waiver, theft protection waiver, third-party liability insurance, local sales taxes, and airport surcharges/fees
• Pay attention to the excess, which is the amount that you must pay in the event of damage or theft
• The excess can be reduced or eliminated by paying an additional fee when booking or through additional insurance

• Must have an international credit card in the driver’s name for the security deposit
• Electronic, debit, and rechargeable cards are not accepted
• Inquire about the limit of your credit card before booking
• Minimum age for car rental is 21 years old
• Drivers under 25 years old must pay an additional fee due to their “less experience behind the wheel”
• If someone else will be driving the rental car, add their name to the car rental contract and pay the related surcharge

• When renting a car, pay attention to the fuel option.
• Car rental companies offer two fuel management options: “full-full” and “full-empty”.
• The “full-full” option is more advantageous and petrol stations are often found nearby.
• Choosing the “full-empty” option means paying a higher price per liter than at a petrol station and trusting the rental company on the amount of missing fuel.
• The security deposit includes the cost for a full tank of fuel, which the rental company retains if the car is returned without a full tank.

• One-way tax or “drop-off” fee will apply if you return the car to a different location
• The fee varies depending on the place and car rental company

• Car rental companies provide approved child seats for babies and children in three weight categories
• The rental fee for the car seat is separate and often high
• If you need the car seat for more than six days, it’s advisable to buy one at your destination and leave it at the airport upon your return
• Request the car seat when booking, as it may not be available locally
• Alternatively, you may bring your child seat as checked baggage on the plane free of charge.

• When you collect the vehicle, inspect it inside and out for damage
• Report any damage to the staff and take photos to document it
• Keep a copy of the signed documents even after returning home