Car Rental Deals: Why the Cheapest Price Isn’t Always the Best Deal

When booking a rental car, it’s tempting to go for the lowest price. But what looks like a bargain at first glance can quickly turn into a costly surprise. To truly get the best deal, you need to look beyond the daily rate.

1. Deposit Amounts Matter

Some suppliers require deposits up to €1,000 or more. Others offer low or even no deposit options. Always check the deposit policy—it affects both your upfront payment and peace of mind.

Tip: BooknRide displays deposit info clearly before you book.

2. Protection & Insurance Options

Does the price include basic insurance? What about theft protection or zero excess? Sometimes low-cost rentals come with high excess amounts or require you to buy extra insurance at the counter.

Look for: What’s covered, what’s excluded, and if the provider offers full protection.

3. Extras That Can Add Up

A great price can quickly climb when you add necessary extras like:

• Additional driver: Often €5–€10/day
• Child seat: Sometimes more than €30 per rental
• Cross-border travel: Requires prior approval and usually a 30-50€ fee

Pro tip: BooknRide lists all optional extras upfront—no surprises.

4. Out-of-Hours Fees

Picking up or dropping off outside regular office hours (e.g. late night at the airport) may trigger a fee of €20–€50. Many travellers miss this detail when comparing offers.

Always check: Are your flight times within office hours?

5. Fuel, Mileage, and Cancellation Policies

Policies like “full-to-empty” fuel or limited mileage can impact the true cost of a rental. A slightly higher price might come with more flexible terms, saving money overall.

Final Thoughts:

Choosing a rental car isn’t just about the price tag—it’s about the value. By comparing policies and extras, not just prices, you’ll avoid hidden costs and enjoy a smoother trip.

At BookNride, we help you compare everything—not just the rate—so you book with confidence.