Short-term car rental: The 7 most common mistakes to avoid
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Updated on May 23, 2025
Need a car for a one-off trip? Short-term hire might be exactly what you’re looking for. This service is ideal for various situations — from quick getaways to unexpected mobility issues.
But to avoid extra costs and last-minute headaches, it’s essential to choose the right solution for your needs.
In this article, you'll learn how to assess whether short-term car hire is the best option for you, when it makes the most sense, and the key mistakes you should avoid.
Keep reading to make the smartest choice for your next journey.
When does short-term car hire make sense?
Short-term car hire is a great solution for temporary mobility needs.
One of its biggest advantages is having a vehicle ready when you need it — without the long-term commitment.
It’s also cost-effective, since it eliminates fixed expenses tied to car ownership, such as insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
Here are some situations where this option can be especially useful:
- Car in the shop: While your vehicle is being repaired, a rental keeps your routine running smoothly.
- Business trips: Perfect for one-off meetings or events where flexibility and independence are key.
- Holidays or weekend getaways: Quick access to a car so you can explore without relying on public transport.
- Test-driving a model: Try out a similar car before committing to a purchase — hire it for as long as you need.
- Family events or special occasions: Get the extra space you need for luggage or relatives, whether it's a wedding or a long visit.
- Temporary need for a larger vehicle: Moving house or transporting bulky items? A spacious rental can save the day..
7 common short-term car hire mistakes and how to avoid them
To make sure short-term car hire is the right choice for you — and that everything runs smoothly — here are 7 common mistakes you’ll want to avoid.
1. Booking at the last minute
Leaving your booking to the last minute reduces the availability of affordable car models and can drive up the rental price.
Whenever possible, plan ahead to get better rates and more choice.
2. Not reading the rental terms
Skipping the fine print can lead to unpleasant surprises — like extra charges for exceeding mileage limits or high fees for returning the car with damage.
Always read the full terms before signing the agreement
3. Underestimating extra costs
Focusing only on the base price can be misleading. Consider the type of vehicle you need, optional insurance, out-of-hours return fees, and extras that affect the final price — like young driver surcharges, cross-border travel or returning the car to a different location.
4. Choosing the wrong car model
Renting a larger or more powerful car than you need will increase both rental and fuel costs. For short trips, go for smaller, fuel-efficient models.
5. Choosing a rental with deductible just because it’s cheaper
Assuming the basic insurance covers everything can be a costly mistake.
It’s important to understand the difference between renting with or without a deductible.
With a deductible, you're liable for a significant portion of the costs in case of damage or accidents.
Without it, you’ll pay more upfront, but you’re protected from unexpected (covered and non-negligent) damage expenses.
Before you decide, consider your risk profile, the nature of your trip and your budget to choose the best option for you.
6. Ignoring the return policy
Failing to check return conditions — like required fuel level or late drop-off penalties — can result in unexpected charges.
Make sure you understand the rules so you can comply and avoid extra fees.
7. Stacking Multiple Short-Term Rentals Instead of Choosing a Longer Plan
Daily rates for short-term rentals are usually higher, and booking several back-to-back contracts can end up costing far more than necessary.
On the other hand, companies often offer lower rates for long-term rentals thanks to economies of scale and reduced operational costs.
Picture this:
Miguel needed a car for 15 days, but he booked just 3, thinking he could easily extend the contract as needed.
However, each extension came with higher daily rates, and the car he was using became unavailable due to prior bookings. He had to switch to a different model at a higher price.
On top of that, he wasted time managing the booking changes.
So, always take a moment to assess your needs and compare options to find the best value for money.
Everything you need to know about car subscriptions
Still unsure about short-term car hire? Here are quick answers to help you make the right choice.
1. When is short-term car hire worth it?
Short-term hire is a great option when you only need a car for a few days. It's ideal for one-off trips, holidays, events, business travel or while your own car is in the shop.
2. What are the most common short-term car hire mistakes?
The most common mistakes include: booking at the last minute, not reading the rental terms, underestimating extra costs, choosing the wrong vehicle, misunderstanding the deductible, ignoring the return policy, and stacking short-term rentals instead of choosing a longer contract.
3. Should I rent with or without a deductible?
Renting without a deductible gives you more protection but costs more. Renting with a deductible is cheaper upfront, but you’ll be responsible for part of the damages if anything goes wrong. The best option depends on your travel needs and risk profile.
Short-Term Car Hire: find the right rent-a-car service with Drivalia
If you're looking for a practical solution to a one-off mobility need, short-term car hire is likely your best option.
To make the right choice, keep the key points from this article in mind and follow the steps below.
At Drivalia, you'll find mobility solutions tailored to your needs — from short-term car hire to flexible monthly subscriptions.
With a wide range of vehicles and an easy online booking process, Drivalia makes your next trip simple, efficient and stress-free.
Trust our car hire service for a personalised, high-quality experience.
