Semih
Travel editor at Reisedrop · 2026-07-31
That 19-franc-a-day hire car looks like a bargain, right up to the moment the desk agent starts talking about «strongly recommended» extra insurance, deposits and fuel fees. And just like that, you're at 80 francs. That's how this business works: the profit is rarely in the car itself, but in all the bits wrapped around it. This guide helps you dodge the usual traps.
Trap 1: the excess scare tactic
Cheap headline rates usually come with an excess of 800–2000 francs. At the desk, you'll then be nudged towards a «peace of mind» cover for 15–25 francs a day, which is often pricier than the car hire itself. A smarter move? Book a zero-excess tariff upfront, or take out an independent annual excess insurance (from ~50 francs – worth it from your second trip).
Trap 2: the fuel policy
«Full to full» is the only fair arrangement. With «full to empty», you end up paying made-up fuel prices plus a service fee. If your contract says anything other than full/full, renegotiate it or walk away. And keep the receipt from your last fuel stop.
Trap 3: the credit card deposit
Almost every hire company blocks a deposit (300–2500 francs) on a proper credit card; debit cards are often turned down. Check before you set off: the card must be in the main driver's name, and it needs enough available limit.
Trap 4: handover without evidence
Before you drive away, film the whole car: scratches, rims, windscreen, fuel gauge, mileage. Then do it again when you return it. It takes two minutes, maybe less. And that bit of phone video is still your best defence against after-the-fact damage claims – the most common rental complaint of all.
When a hire car genuinely makes sense
For city breaks, almost never. For road trips, islands and rural regions, very often. A decent rule of thumb: once there are two people and three excursions, a rental usually beats any taxi budget. Book 3–6 weeks ahead, compare full/full with zero excess, and read the station's latest reviews rather than staring only at the price.
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