Planning a holiday in the UK? From coastal towns to national parks and cosy countryside villages, there’s so much to see beyond the big cities. Hiring a car can give you the freedom to explore all these places and venture beyond the usual touristy spots. With a few clever tricks, you can keep the cost of your hired car low and enjoy the experience without straining your wallet.
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These essential car hire tips will help you save money while making the most of your UK trip.
Book as Early as Possible
Prices usually rise as your travel date gets closer, particularly during weekends, bank holidays or during summer. Booking in advance is key when it comes to anything you’re planning, and the same applies to your car hires. The earlier you book, the better rates and the more choice you’ll have in vehicles. If your plans are flexible, try checking different pick-up dates to find cheaper options.
Use a Trustworthy Comparison Site
Rather than hopping from one website to another, use a comparison website like holidaycars.com to view multiple car hire offers in one place. You’ll save time and can easily spot the best deal, including extras like unlimited mileage or free cancellation.
Choose a Practical Car Size
Unless you’re travelling with a big group or lots of luggage, you probably don’t need a large vehicle. Try to resist a fancy cabrio or a luxury SUV if you don’t need it -your wallet doesn’t either. Especially if you plan to drive in big cities, a small car can do the job. Aside from being cheaper to hire, it’s much easier to handle both on tight city streets and narrow rural roads.
Avoid Picking Up from the Airport
Airport car providers often charge more due to added location fees and high demand. If possible, look for city centre or suburban pick-up points. Ιf you’re landing in London, Manchester or Edinburgh, it’s usually easy to find such locations without much inconvenience.
Check the Fuel Policy
The “full-to-full” policy is usually the most cost-effective. You collect the car with a full tank and return it the same way. Avoid the prepaid fuel option unless you’re sure you’ll use the entire tank, otherwise, it will end up being a waste of money.
Don’t Overpay for Add-Ons
Adding extras like GPS, child seats or toll passes in your hired car can increase the final cost. If you can, bring your own equipment or use apps on your phone for navigation. These may seem like simple amenities, but when provided by the hire company, they can turn out to be expensive, so bring your own.
Inspect the Car’s Condition
Before driving off, carefully check the vehicle’s condition inside and out. Take pictures if needed, of any visible scratches or any other damage and do the same when you return it. Doing so can help you avoid disputes over damage that wasn’t your fault and was already there.
A holiday is always an exciting experience, but some parts of it, like organising transport and finances, can feel a bit overwhelming. The good news is that with the right tips and a little planning, even car hire can become a smooth, stress-free part of your journey. And once that’s sorted, you’re free to enjoy the adventure ahead.