Avoid hiring at the airport if you can.Credit:iStock
Use your frequent-flyer or other loyalty program for a discount,though be aware that you may still be paying more than with a rival company.
Plan an itinerary that returns to the same location,since drop-off fees are ridiculously high. Stick to a single driver if distances aren’t too great,as additional drivers typically add $10 a day – or more if the driver is under 25 years old.
Car-hires invariably try to sign you up to extra,comprehensive insurance which is always overpriced. Check if you aren’t covered through your credit card or travel insurance. Or take the risk if you’re a confident driver with no history of prangs.
Don’t bother with the GPS,as you’ll pay a handsome additional fee for its use. You can download Google maps on your phone using free hotel Wi-Fi and navigate using that,even if you don’t have phone coverage – though best have someone in the passenger seat to direct.
Drive a manual if you’re able. Manual cars are considerably cheaper,especially in Europe,where they’re the norm. As a bonus,you’ll use less petrol.
Manual cars are usually cheaper to hire,especially in Europe.Credit:Getty
You shouldn’t pick your car up at an airport if you can avoid it. A cheap public-transport fare will take you into a city car-hire outlet – many are at train stations – where prices will be almost certainly cheaper. In fact,26 per cent cheaper in the USA,according to a Nerdwallet study of 20 key cities.