Additional hidden extras bought on pick up of a rental vehicle can nearly double a holidaymaker's original quote.
LONDON – With the summer holiday season fast approaching many people will be looking to hire a car to help them get the most out of their trip. Booking online is the most popular method to obtain a quote and book and, with so many sites and suppliers available, consumers can get low cost car hire within minutes.
However, on arrival to pick up the vehicle many holidaymakers are finding that the price wasn’t all inclusive and are hit with hidden charges, some compulsory and some not. In a number of cases, these charges have been found to double the original quoted cost.
Some compulsory charges include taxes, fuel policy costs and pick up or drop off costs. Michael Bond of 121carhire.com said: “To avoid any nasty surprises ensure you read the terms and conditions before booking to find out exactly what is and isn’t included, then you can budget for any extras that may need paying on arrival.”
Michael added: “Other charges are often for optional extras including car seats, sat-navs and additional drivers so, if these are needed, travellers need to be aware that they may pay extra. In some cases car seats can be taken on holiday with you but this will come at a cost too, so prior to your trip, look at the differences in costs to save money, and check with different suppliers as these may vary. Many UK sat-navs can also be used abroad as long as it is set up correctly and updated with the right software. If you arrive to collect the vehicle, and are unsure of any charges incurred, ask for a breakdown of costs and remember if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
