Car Hire Comparison

Looking for reliable car hire for your next holiday? TravelON works with Discovery Cars, one of our trusted car hire comparison partners, to help you compare rental cars, prices, collection points, vehicle types and booking conditions in one place.

Whether you need airport car hire, resort car hire, a small economy car, a family vehicle, an automatic, an SUV or a larger car for extra luggage, comparing car hire before you travel can help you find better value and avoid surprises when you arrive.

Use the car hire comparison widget on this page to check live prices, compare suppliers and book your hire car before your holiday.

Compare Car Hire Deals with Discovery Cars

Our car hire comparison partner, Discovery Cars, allows you to search and compare hire car options from a range of rental suppliers. Instead of visiting multiple car hire websites separately, you can compare available vehicles, prices, insurance options, customer ratings and booking conditions in one place.

This makes it easier to choose the right car for your destination, your budget and your travel plans. You can compare collection points such as airports, city centres, ferry ports, train stations and resort offices, depending on the destination.

Why Compare Car Hire Before You Book?

Car hire prices can vary widely depending on the destination, travel dates, vehicle type, rental company, collection point and insurance package. Comparing car hire gives you more control and helps you understand the full cost before you arrive.

By comparing car hire in advance, you can:

• Find better prices before availability becomes limited
• Compare trusted rental companies
• Check what insurance is included
• See the fuel policy before booking
• Check deposit and excess amounts
• Choose the right car size for your luggage and passengers
• Avoid last-minute airport prices
• Reduce the risk of unexpected charges at collection

Airport Car Hire

Airport car hire is one of the most popular options for holidaymakers because it allows you to collect your car as soon as you land. This is often the easiest choice if you want a car for the full holiday or if you are staying in a villa, apartment, rural area or resort away from the airport.

Airport collection can save time and make arrival simpler, especially if you are travelling with children, luggage, golf clubs, mobility equipment or sports gear.

When booking airport car hire, always check the exact collection instructions. Some rental companies have desks inside the arrivals terminal, some use airport car parks, and others operate from off-airport offices with a shuttle bus.

Resort Car Hire

Resort car hire can be a good option if you do not need a vehicle for your full holiday. Many travellers book airport transfers first and then hire a car locally for one, two or three days to explore the area.

Resort car hire can be useful if you are staying centrally, close to beaches, restaurants and attractions, but want a car for a specific day trip or sightseeing route.

Availability can be more limited during busy periods, so it is still worth comparing and booking in advance if you know you will need a car.

How to Get the Best Car Hire Deals

Finding the best car hire deal is not just about choosing the lowest price. The best value usually comes from a fair price, clear rental conditions, convenient collection and the right insurance cover.

Book Early

Car hire prices often rise as travel dates get closer, especially in peak seasons. Booking early gives you more choice of vehicles, better availability and often better prices.

Compare More Than One Supplier

Different rental companies can offer very different prices for the same destination and dates. Using a comparison partner such as Discovery Cars helps you see multiple options together.

Check the Total Price

Always look beyond the headline price. Check whether the total includes taxes, airport fees, basic insurance, mileage, one-way fees and any compulsory local charges.

Choose the Right Car Size

A small car may be cheaper, but it may not be suitable if you have several passengers, large suitcases, pushchairs or sports equipment. Choosing the right size from the start can avoid problems at collection.

Consider Manual vs Automatic

Manual cars are often cheaper and more widely available in many destinations. Automatic cars can cost more and sell out faster, so book early if you need one.

Look at Customer Ratings

Price matters, but reviews and supplier ratings are also important. A slightly higher price with a better-rated supplier, clearer terms and easier collection may be better value overall.

Cheap Car Hire: What to Look Out For

Cheap car hire can be a great deal, but only if you understand the full terms. Very low prices may come with higher deposits, larger insurance excesses, strict fuel policies or extra charges at the desk.

Before booking cheap car hire, check:

• Insurance excess amount
• Security deposit amount
• Fuel policy
• Mileage limits
• Young driver fees
• Additional driver fees
• Late collection fees
• Out-of-hours return fees
• Cross-border or ferry restrictions
• Airport surcharge or location fees

The cheapest option is not always the cheapest by the end of the rental. Always compare the full conditions before choosing.

Car Hire Insurance Explained

Car hire insurance can be confusing, but it is one of the most important parts of your booking. Most rentals include basic cover, but the level of protection, excess and exclusions can vary by supplier and destination.

Collision Damage Waiver

Collision Damage Waiver, often called CDW, usually limits your financial responsibility if the car is damaged. However, it may still include an excess, which is the amount you could be responsible for if there is damage.

The Insurance Excess

The excess is the amount you may have to pay if the vehicle is damaged or stolen. Some rentals have a low excess, while others can have a much higher amount. Always check this before booking.

Full Protection or Extra Cover

Some comparison sites and rental companies offer additional protection to reduce your risk. This may cover parts of the vehicle not included in basic insurance, such as tyres, wheels, glass, mirrors, roof or underbody.

Always read the policy details carefully so you know whether you are buying cover from the rental company or from a separate protection provider.

What Is Often Not Covered?

Basic car hire insurance may not cover everything. Common exclusions can include:

• Tyres and wheels
• Windscreen and glass
• Roof damage
• Underbody damage
• Interior damage
• Lost keys
• Incorrect fuel
• Off-road driving
• Driving under the influence
• Unauthorised drivers

Check the rental conditions carefully before driving away.

Car Hire Deposits

Most car hire companies require a security deposit when you collect the vehicle. This is usually held on a credit card in the main driver’s name and released after the car is returned, assuming there is no damage, missing fuel, fines or extra charges.

The deposit amount can vary depending on the supplier, vehicle type, destination and insurance package. A cheaper rental may sometimes require a larger deposit, so always check this before booking.

Do You Need a Credit Card for Car Hire?

Many car hire companies require a credit card in the main driver’s name. Debit cards may be accepted by some suppliers, but this varies by destination and rental company.

Before booking, check:

• Whether a credit card is required
• Whether debit cards are accepted
• Whether the card must be in the main driver’s name
• The deposit amount
• Whether prepaid cards or virtual cards are accepted

If you arrive without the correct payment card, the rental company may refuse to release the vehicle or may require extra insurance at the desk.

Fuel Policies for Car Hire

Fuel policy is another important part of car hire comparison. The most common and usually fairest option is full-to-full. This means you collect the car with a full tank and return it full.

Full-to-Full Fuel Policy

This is usually the best option for most travellers. You only pay for the fuel you use, and you avoid inflated refuelling charges as long as you return the car full.

Prepaid Fuel

Some companies may ask you to pay for a tank of fuel upfront and return the car empty. This can be less convenient because it is difficult to return a car with no fuel left, and unused fuel may not be refunded.

Same-to-Same Fuel Policy

This means you return the car with the same fuel level as when you collected it. If the car has half a tank when collected, return it with half a tank. Take photos of the fuel gauge at collection and return.

Hidden Extras to Watch Out For

Some car hire deals look cheap at first but become more expensive once extras are added. Before booking, check which extras are optional and which are compulsory.

Common hidden extras include:

• Additional driver fees
• Young driver fees
• Senior driver fees
• Child seats
• Booster seats
• GPS hire
• Out-of-hours collection
• Out-of-hours return
• One-way rental fees
• Airport surcharges
• Cross-border fees
• Ferry permission fees
• Cleaning fees
• Late return charges
• Road toll devices

Checking these before you book helps you avoid surprises at the rental desk.

How to Save Money on Car Hire

There are several ways to save money on car hire without choosing a poor-quality rental.

• Book early: Prices often increase closer to your travel date.
• Compare suppliers: Use Discovery Cars through TravelON to compare multiple rental companies.
• Choose the right size: Do not pay for a larger car than you need, but make sure your luggage fits.
• Bring your own child seat: Airline luggage rules may make this cheaper than hiring one locally.
• Use your phone for navigation: This can avoid GPS hire charges.
• Check fuel policy: Full-to-full is often the best value.
• Avoid unnecessary extras: Only add what you actually need.
• Return the car on time: Late returns can trigger extra-day charges.
• Fill up before returning: Avoid expensive refuelling fees.
• Take photos: Photograph the car at collection and return to protect yourself from disputes.

What to Check Before Driving Away

Before leaving the car hire collection point, take a few minutes to check the vehicle and paperwork. This can save time, stress and possible charges later.

• Check the car for scratches, dents and marks
• Make sure all damage is recorded on the rental agreement
• Take photos and videos of the car from every side
• Check the tyres, wheels, mirrors and windscreen
• Check the fuel level and mileage
• Confirm the return location and time
• Ask what to do in case of breakdown or accident
• Check whether the car uses petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric charging
• Make sure you have the emergency contact number

What to Check When Returning the Car

Returning your hire car correctly can help avoid unexpected charges after your holiday.

• Return the car on time
• Refuel according to the fuel policy
• Remove all personal items
• Take photos of the car after parking
• Take a photo of the fuel gauge and mileage
• Keep fuel receipts if required
• Ask for a return receipt or confirmation where possible
• Keep your rental paperwork until the deposit is released

Choosing the Right Hire Car

The right hire car depends on your destination, passengers, luggage and travel plans.

Economy Cars

Economy cars are usually the cheapest option and are ideal for couples, short trips, city driving and light luggage.

Compact Cars

Compact cars offer a little more space while still being easy to park and affordable to run.

Family Cars

Family cars are better for holidays with children, multiple suitcases or longer drives.

SUVs

SUVs can be useful for comfort, luggage space and higher driving position, especially in destinations with mountain roads or rural areas. Always check rental terms before driving on rough or unpaved roads.

Automatic Cars

Automatic cars are popular but often more expensive and more limited in availability. Book early if you need an automatic vehicle.

7-Seaters and Larger Vehicles

Larger vehicles are ideal for bigger families or groups, but check luggage space carefully. A 7-seater may not have enough boot space when all seats are in use.

Driving Abroad: General Tips

Driving rules vary by country and destination, so always check local road laws before you travel. In many European destinations, you drive on the right-hand side of the road, speed limits are shown in kilometres per hour and seat belts are compulsory.

Useful driving tips include:

• Check which side of the road to drive on
• Understand local speed limits
• Carry your driving licence and ID
• Keep rental documents in the car
• Check parking rules before leaving the vehicle
• Watch for toll roads and low emission zones
• Do not use a mobile phone while driving
• Never allow an unauthorised person to drive the car

Car Hire for Families

Car hire can make family holidays much easier, especially if you are travelling with children, luggage, prams or beach equipment. A hire car gives you more flexibility for airport transfers, supermarket trips, beach days and family attractions.

When booking family car hire, check boot space, air conditioning, child seat options, additional driver costs and whether your accommodation has parking.

Car Hire for Couples

For couples, a small or compact car is often the best-value option. It is usually cheaper to hire, easier to park and more economical on fuel.

A hire car is ideal for exploring beaches, villages, restaurants, viewpoints and hidden places that are harder to reach by public transport.

Car Hire for Groups

For groups, compare the cost of one larger vehicle against two smaller cars. A 7-seater or people carrier can be convenient, but luggage space may be limited when every seat is used.

If your group has several suitcases, sports equipment or golf clubs, make sure the vehicle category is large enough before booking.

Airport Transfers or Car Hire?

Some travellers choose airport transfers, while others prefer car hire. The best option depends on your holiday style.

Choose car hire if:

• You want to explore during your holiday
• You are staying outside the main resort centre
• You want flexibility with beaches, restaurants and attractions
• You are travelling with family or lots of luggage
• You want to avoid waiting for taxis or shared transfers

Choose airport transfers if:

• You plan to stay mostly in one resort
• You do not want to drive abroad
• You only need transport from the airport to your hotel
• Parking at your accommodation is limited

Many customers use both options: airport transfers for arrival and departure, then resort car hire for a day or two of exploring.

Book Car Hire with TravelON and Discovery Cars

TravelON works with Discovery Cars to make holiday car hire comparison simple. Use the widget on this page to compare live prices, vehicle types, collection locations, rental companies and booking conditions.

Whether you are looking for cheap car hire, airport car hire, resort car hire, family car rental, automatic car hire or a larger vehicle for your holiday, comparing before you book can help you find the right car at the right price.