Cheap Car Hire: How to Save Big on Rental Cars in the UK and Abroad
Hiring a car doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re planning a staycation in Scotland, a week in Spain, or a road trip across Ireland, finding cheap car hire can be simple if you know where to look—and what to avoid.
This guide is your go-to resource for getting the best deals on rental cars from the UK, with tips on comparison sites, insurance traps, deposit-free options, and more.
Why Hiring a Car Can Be Cheaper Than You Think
Many travellers skip car hire assuming it’s costly—but in many cases, it can actually be cheaper than relying on taxis or public transport, especially if you’re travelling as a group or exploring areas off the beaten track.
Plus, with many UK banks offering discounts through loyalty programmes or travel accounts, you could save even more by booking smart.
Where to Find the Cheapest Car Hire Deals
1. Use Price Comparison Websites
Comparison sites can help you scan dozens of providers instantly and filter by car type, fuel policy, and pick-up location.
Popular UK sites include:
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Rentalcars.com
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Skyscanner Car Hire
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Kayak
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Zest Car Rental – known for excellent customer service and no hidden fees
Always check both the comparison site and the car rental company’s official website, as prices may vary.
2. Book Early and Be Flexible
Prices tend to rise as you approach your travel date. If possible:
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Book at least 3–4 weeks in advance
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Avoid peak weekend pick-up times
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Be open to different pick-up locations—airport rentals are often pricier
Table: Car Hire Price Comparison (UK vs Abroad)
Here’s a general comparison of average 7-day rental prices (economy car) based on 2025 data:
| Destination | Average Weekly Cost | Excess Cover Included? | Airport Surcharge? |
|---|---|---|---|
| London, UK | £175 | No | Often |
| Manchester, UK | £160 | No | Sometimes |
| Barcelona, Spain | £120 | No | Yes (varies) |
| Dublin, Ireland | £140 | No | Common |
Prices fluctuate depending on season, vehicle, and insurance coverage.
Avoiding the Biggest Cost Trap: Insurance Upsells
Car hire firms often offer a cheap base price but charge high fees for extras—especially insurance.
Here’s what to watch out for:
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Excess Insurance: Most rentals include basic insurance but with a huge excess (up to £1,000+).
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Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): May not fully cover damage.
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The Desk Trap: They’ll pressure you to buy their policy at the counter—often £10–£20 per day.
Tip: Buy Standalone Excess Insurance
You can get this separately from third-party providers for as little as £2 per day or £40 per year. Examples include:
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MoneyMaxim
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Cover4CarHire
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Insurance4CarHire
It’s often cheaper and offers better protection.
Check If Your Bank Account Offers Car Hire Benefits
Some UK bank accounts and credit cards offer insurance or discounts on car rentals.
| Bank | Account Type | Car Hire Perk |
|---|---|---|
| Barclays | Travel Pack | Rental discounts via partners |
| Nationwide | FlexPlus | Car hire excess insurance included |
| Halifax | Reward Account | Cashback offers occasionally |
| HSBC Premier | Linked to travel concierge | May include car hire benefits |
Always check your account benefits before booking separately—you might already be covered.
Extra Fees to Watch Out For
Cheap car hire isn’t just about the headline price. Be aware of:
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Fuel Policy: Full-to-empty is rarely good value—go for full-to-full.
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Out-of-hours fees: Some locations charge more for late returns or early pickups.
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One-way fees: Picking up in one location and returning to another can add £50–£200.
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Mileage Limits: Unlimited mileage is ideal. Some budget providers limit you per day.
Best Times to Book Cheap Car Hire
| Season | Best Booking Window | Price Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 4–6 weeks in advance | Moderate |
| Summer (peak) | 6–8 weeks in advance | High demand = higher prices |
| Autumn | 2–4 weeks in advance | Cheaper outside school holidays |
| Winter | 3–5 weeks in advance | Watch for weather-dependent fees |
Booking early and locking in free cancellation allows you to rebook if prices drop.
Do You Need a Credit Card to Hire a Car?
In many cases—yes. Most providers require a credit card in the main driver’s name to block the excess deposit.
However, some companies now accept debit cards, especially for UK residents hiring in the UK. Zest and Enterprise are examples that offer debit card hire with conditions (e.g., credit checks, full cover purchase).
Age Restrictions: Can Young Drivers Get Cheap Car Hire?
Drivers under 25 often face:
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Daily young driver surcharges (£15–£30/day)
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Limited car selection
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Higher excess requirements
If you’re aged 21–24, look for firms like:
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Alamo
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Sixt
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Europcar
Some UK insurers now offer car hire excess insurance specifically for young drivers, helping reduce the overall cost.
Final Tips to Keep Car Hire Costs Low
✅ Book early, compare prices, and filter for full-to-full fuel policies
✅ Avoid in-branch insurance upsells—use standalone cover instead
✅ Use a UK credit card with travel perks (Amex, Halifax, Nationwide)
✅ Check your bank account or travel insurance for existing protection
✅ Photograph the car before and after rental—always inspect for damage
Summary: Cheap Car Hire Can Be Smart Car Hire
Cheap doesn’t mean poor. With careful comparison, understanding the traps, and planning ahead, you can get a great value rental without any nasty surprises.