Cheap car rentals – all companies at the best price!

Car rental is often the most complex expense of a trip. Not because of the price, but because of the small print. We have compiled the most important tips for you so that you pass the counter safely and return without surprising charges.

The Price Equation: Cheap Can Be Expensive (Understanding the Deposit Model)

One of the most common mistakes is filtering by “lowest price.” It is important to understand the business model of Low Cost car rental companies:

• Low rental price = High deposit: When you see a car for 15 Euros per day, the company will usually require an astronomical deposit (sometimes 1,500-2,000 Euros) that is “held” on your credit frame. In this situation, every small scratch will lead to a maximum charge from the deposit.
• Higher rental price = Peace of mind: Large companies or plans that include Full Excess Waiver, will cost more on the day of rental, but the required deposit will be significantly lower (usually only for fuel, about 100-200 Euros).
• The Tip: If your credit limit is limited, do not be tempted by the cheapest daily price. Check the required deposit amount in the Terms & Conditions (T&C).

Insurance: The Critical Difference Between “Refund” and “Waiver”

This is the biggest pitfall for the traveler. There are two main types of damage coverage:

• Refundable Excess: Common in external search engines (like Rentalcars or EconomyCarRentals). This is external insurance. If damage occurs, the rental company will charge you, and you will need to claim the money back from the provider you booked through. This sometimes requires bureaucracy, forms, and time.
• Zero Excess / Super Cover: Insurance usually purchased directly from the rental company (at the counter or on the official website, through us or from local rentals). This option also exists for bookings on our website, so you’re in luck! In case of damage, you pay nothing (except for exceptions like tires and windshields, depending on the policy).
• Important Tip: Counter representatives abroad receive commissions on insurance sales. If you purchased “Excess Refund” from a third-party agent, the representative will tell you that “you have no insurance” and try to sell you double. Be assertive! If you have external insurance and you are aware of the claim process, politely decline the additional insurance.

The Credit Card: Your Second Passport

Without a suitable credit card, you will not receive a car – even if you paid for it in advance.

• Main Driver’s Name: The credit card must be in the name of the driver registered in the booking (Main Driver). Not the spouse’s, not the parents’.
• Card Type: A Credit Card is mandatory, usually with embossed digits. Debit or Direct cards are rejected by most major companies in Europe and the USA because a deposit cannot be “held” on them.
• PIN Code: Make sure you know the card’s secret code; sometimes you are required to enter it at the terminal.
• Available Limit: Make sure before the flight that you have an available limit equal to the deposit + trip expenses.
• Supported Clubs: Sometimes there are companies that do not accept Diners credit cards; be sure to check the additional conditions on the booking page.

Driving License: The Plastic is Not Always Enough

Although “Permit” is written on many licenses, and although most countries respect it – don’t take a risk.

• General Recommendation: Go to an optics shop/automobile association and issue a cardboard International Driving Permit (cost of about 20 NIS).
• There are small rental companies (in Italy, Greece, or villages in Austria) that insist on an international license. Furthermore, in case of a police report or heaven forbid an accident, officers may demand it. This is a very cheap “insurance” to prevent heartache.

The Vehicle Pickup: “Don’t Trust, Check”

That moment when you are tired from the flight and just want to drive already – is the most dangerous moment.

• 360-degree Video Recording: Do not settle for marking Xs on the representative’s sheet. Do a lap around the car with a flashlight (if it’s night) and record a continuous video. Focus on: Rims (curb scratches), bumpers from below, side mirrors, and windows.
• Fuel: Make sure you received a full tank (Full to Full) and that the gauge in the car indeed shows this. Photograph the dashboard upon ignition.
• Upgrades: If they offer you a “free” or “discounted” upgrade, make sure it doesn’t come with a commitment to additional insurance or hidden costs.

Tips for Driving and Logistics Abroad

• Border Crossings: Planning to cross borders? (e.g., from Germany to Austria). It is Mandatory to declare this during booking or at the counter. There are Cross Border Fees and sometimes insurance that is not valid in certain countries (e.g., Eastern Europe with luxury vehicles).
• Toll Roads: Check the payment method in advance. In countries like Austria, Switzerland, and Slovenia, a sticker (Vignette) is required before entering the highway. In Portugal, there are roads with electronic tolls only that require a device in the vehicle.
• Return: Keep the last refueling receipt before returning the car. This is proof that you returned a full tank in case they charge you exorbitant “refueling fees” later.

Quick Summary Table: What to Watch Out For?