Hiring a car at your holiday destination gives you freedom – provided the insurance, fuel policy and deposit are all sorted. The key points to consider before booking.
This page has been automatically translated from German. The German version is the authoritative one: German
In short
- Choose comprehensive cover with no excess – ideally including glass, tyres and underbody cover (1).
- Choose a ‘full to full’ fuel policy (1).
- Bring a valid credit card in the main driver’s name; deposits of €1,000 are not uncommon (1).
- Document any existing damage at the time of collection and return (1).
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Who is your contractual partner?
When booking via a portal, there are often three parties involved: the portal, an intermediary and the local rental company. Before booking, check who you are entering into the contract with and who is responsible if problems arise (1).
Insurance
Stiftung Warentest recommends comprehensive motor insurance with no excess. Damage to glass, tyres and the underbody is often not automatically covered (1). If you are offered additional insurance at the counter even though you are already fully insured, please contact the booking portal (1).
Payment and deposit
In most cases, a genuine credit card in the main driver’s name is required; debit cards are often not accepted. A security deposit may be blocked on the card (1). Some booking platforms offer filters for other payment methods (1).
Collection and return
- Ensure that any existing damage is recorded in the handover report (1).
- Take photographs of the car when you collect it and when you return it (1).
- With ‘full to full’, return the car with a full tank (1).
Book early
Booking early is often cheaper, and many offers can be cancelled free of charge up to 24 hours before collection – please check the terms and conditions of the offer (1).
Please note: This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. We do not recommend any specific provider.
Sources
- Stiftung Warentest: Mietauto im Urlaub – Tipps für Fahrspaß ohne Stress (Press release dated 20 April 2026; accessed on 11 October 2026)