Have you ever planned a trip, only to arrive at the car rental counter and be surprised by an unexpected deposit that tests your credit card limits? At Trabber, we know this is one of the most common concerns for those renting a vehicle, which is why we now offer a solution that lets you rent with no surprises.

In the new version of the Trabber Car Search, you can see information about the deposit required by each rental agency directly in the results—when available, of course. This means you’ll know upfront if the rental company requires a deposit and, if so, the amount.

A while ago, we shared a list of recommendations for getting the best price when renting a car. After analyzing the results of car rental searches on Trabber over the past 12 months, we need to update it, as our analysis shows that renting a car in the city is, on average, 22% cheaper than at the airport.

Why is it cheaper to rent in the city?

Car rentals at airports often have higher rates due to the convenience they offer. Rental companies know that many travelers value the ease of picking up a car right after landing and are willing to pay a bit more for it. Additionally, specific fees and taxes that apply to airport operations often increase their costs, which must be passed on to customers.

When it comes to renting a car, making the right choices can make a huge difference in your travel experience. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the car rental process smoothly and get the most out of your rental:

1. Check out prices from different car rental companies. Prices aren’t set in stone in this industry, so you might find big differences between companies. Sometimes, it’s even cheaper to book through a travel agency instead of directly with a rental company. But hey, always go for providers you trust. Trabber Cars lets you compare prices from all the big rental companies and travel agencies.
2. Plan ahead, mate. Rental companies often have sweet deals if you book in advance. Plus, if you leave it to the last minute, you might miss out on the car you really want. Rushing never leads to good decisions, so try to avoid those last-minute bookings.
3. Get yourself a decent insurance coverage. It might seem like an extra expense, but if something goes wrong on your trip, it could save you a load of hassle. Trust me, what you pay for insurance will seem like chump change if you’re in a jam.
4. Rent an electric or hybrid car. You will avoid the restrictions imposed by many cities and you will be able to park for free. If you rent a combustion engine, let it be diesel, which usually consumes less and the fuel is usually cheaper.
5. Upon receiving the car, inspect it thoroughly and report any anomalies. That way, you won’t get slapped with extra charges when you return it. And don’t forget to check those tires – it’s something most people overlook.
6. When you’re booking, make sure to add any extras you need, like kid seats or GPS. That way, you know they’ll be ready for your trip. Keep in mind that in general, any extra is usually expensive and it may be worth it to bring it with you on your trip.
7. Bring back the car with a full tank. Fuel is not included in the rental price, so if you return it with less than a full tank, they’ll charge you a premium for the fuel. Always better to top it up before you hand it back.

And remember, always read through the rental contract carefully before you sign it. If there’s anything in there you’re not cool with, don’t sign it. Once you’ve put pen to paper, you’re stuck with it – no going back.