It’s common to think that when hiring a vehicle for leisure or business, most companies are competitive and prices are ‘very much the same’. But in fact, you can end up paying far too much if you don’t shop around. So how can you avoid paying too much for your car hire, but ensure you get a safe, comfortable vehicle and excellent customer service? Before you decide on one dealership, take a look at our sound advice on car hire – and why you should always compare prices when searching for a vehicle for your road trip or relocation.
You can make massive savings
You could be getting a better deal elsewhere.If you don’t compare prices, you can’t know what you’re missing out on! There may be other deals and packages out there that suit your requirements better, offer free add-ons or are simply much better value for money. Similarly if you have a price in mind because you hired a car a number of years ago, then make sure you look again. Things are constantly changing – take for instance the improved economy of cars on offer and varying fuel prices. Whether you’re looking for campervan hire in Tasmania, or a luxury car for a Gold Coast trip, there is always more than one company willing to provide this to you, and where there’s competition in the market, there’s a good chance to make significant savings on your hire car.
Some dealers conceal hidden charges in their packages
Often deals which look fantastic on the outset can turn out to be much more expensive than you initially thought. Once you’re through the door with your excellent price, you then sign paperwork only to be told you need to add insurance, there are hidden terms and conditions which you must abide by (all at a cost, of course!). The price advertised isn’t always what you end up paying – and the old adage definitely applies – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Check carefully what you’re getting for your money before you sign on the dotted line.
Your cheap car hire may not be good value for money
Whilst the above is an unfortunate occurrence, what’s even worse is hiring a car then discovering you’re in a dangerous vehicle, are uninsured or unprotected and ill advised by your company.Opting for a less reputable dealer in return for low prices could result in a more expensive trade off in the long run. Price is of course important – but so is what you are being offered in return. Make sure that you’ve got the perfect balance between quality and cost, and once you’ve done that, always research the company you’re planning to go with to check customer reviews and reputation.
For long-term hire, small savings can go a long way
If you’re hiring a car long-term, you should be able to negotiate a cheaper price on a better specification vehicle than if you were only looking at hiring for a week or two. Depending on their trade, some car hire dealers will be more open to this sort of negotiation than others. Although the savings might seem small on the outset, they will add up over time and could save you a fortune (and perhaps add up to a month’s worth of car hire) which you’d have missed out on had you not shopped around.
If you’re looking to hire a car, campervan, motorhome or other vehicle for the best possible price, then always make sure you compare – it may give you a little extra spending money whilst you’re away.
