Extra Fees in Car Rental

Car rental companies often offer GPS devices, in-vehicle Wi-Fi, or mobile data packages to cover navigation and connectivity needs. These services are typically priced at an additional €5–15 per day. While many travelers can use their smartphone’s map apps for free, those who opt for the extra device may face an unexpected fee. Moreover, the currency of the maps and accuracy of the company’s navigation units can vary, so a consistently high-quality routing experience is not guaranteed.

To avoid this charge, download offline map apps (e.g., Google Maps offline, Maps.me) on your own phone before your trip. If your data plan is insufficient, consider purchasing a local SIM card or researching affordable international roaming packages in advance. When booking, compare providers that advertise “Free GPS” or “Wi-Fi Included” deals to save on extra costs.

Child Seats and Child Safety

For families, child and infant seats are indispensable services, often carrying an extra daily fee of €8–12. If you have more than one child, you may incur charges for both a car seat and a booster seat. If these items are not included in the rental agreement, you could face penalties or find that damages fall outside your insurance coverage. Without the required equipment, the rental company may impose legal risks and additional financial liability.

If possible, bring your own child seat to avoid the extra fee, especially for short drives. For air travel, choose lightweight, foldable, certified models you can drop off at the airport for free. Alternatively, watch for long-term rental promotions that include child safety equipment at a discounted rate or even free of charge.

Additional Driver Fee

If more than one person will drive the rental car, an additional driver fee applies—typically €3–7 per day. Failing to add an extra driver to the reservation can violate your insurance and void coverage in case of an accident. Some companies may not allow you to add drivers later, or they may impose penalties for unauthorized drivers. It’s critical to confirm the policy at the time of booking.

To minimize this cost, look for companies that offer free additional driver coverage for spouses or long-term rentals. Joining loyalty programs or prepaying your booking may also yield discounts. For group travel, finalize your driver list ahead of time to avoid unexpected fees.

Fuel Policies and Refueling Fees

Common fuel options include “full-to-full” and “same-level return.” With “full-to-full,” returning the car with less than a full tank triggers a service fee and deposit deduction, often at a markup of €1.50–2.00 per liter. Under “same-level return,” you’re charged the agency’s average per-liter rate if the fuel level drops.

To control this cost, identify affordable gas stations near the return location and refill before returning. Some companies offer “empty-to-empty” options or apps that track your starting fuel level to reduce charges. Compare fuel policy options when booking to protect your budget.

Late Return and Early Drop-Off Penalties

Rental periods are typically calculated by the hour; even a half-hour delay can be billed as a full day. Late return fees can add 25–50% to the daily rate. Conversely, returning the car early may not result in a refund and could incur an early return fee.

To avoid these extra charges, choose providers that offer a “flexible return window” or a 2–4-hour grace period. Booking platforms that allow automatic extensions ahead of the return time can also reduce penalty risk. Keep your return window adjustable until your travel schedule is final.

Airport and Special Location Fees

Airport offices, off-site branches, and cross-border drop-offs often carry a location surcharge of €10–30. Some companies charge a flat daily fee for specific areas—such as seaports, train stations, or major bus terminals.

To save on this fee, pick up and drop off at downtown or high-volume branches. When booking, select the “same location return” option to avoid cross-location charges. If your flight changes, update your reservation early to minimize additional location fees.

Cleaning, Disinfection, and Hygiene Fees

Especially post-pandemic, thorough disinfection and extra cleaning services have become additional fee items. Some companies charge €5–10 per day for a “deep clean” or remove odors and viruses. These services often require detailed reporting and can significantly raise your bill.

Instead, opt for providers that guarantee 99.9% hygiene or include cleaning in promotional packages. Look for rentals labeled “hygiene package included.” If you’re sensitive about cleanliness, bring your own disinfectant wipes and towels to lower extra hygiene charges.

Damage Waiver (CDW/LDW) and Insurance Add-Ons

Damage waivers like CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) cover most repair costs in an accident. Basic insurance typically excludes these waivers, leaving you liable for tires, glass, and undercarriage repairs. Skipping extra coverage can lead to high repair bills for even minor damages.

Review insurance add-ons when booking—full coverage, theft protection, or roadside assistance can cost €5–15 per day. Check if your credit card offers insurance benefits or if third-party insurers have more affordable policies to ensure comprehensive protection.

Toll, Bridge, and Electronic Pass Fees

In some countries, toll roads, bridges, and tunnels require electronic passes (HGS, OGS, Telepass, etc.). Rental companies often preload these fees onto your deposit. For example, in Turkey, an HGS sticker and usage fees can add €3–10 per month or day, plus per-crossing charges. These costs appear on your final invoice and can be surprising if not itemized.

To avoid this, minimize highway or bridge use and choose toll-free alternative routes. Consider companies that offer “unlimited toll pass packages,” or load your own pass balance to control costs directly.

Deposit and Payment Terms

Rental deposits typically equal 100–300 times the daily rate, blocked on your credit card until you return the vehicle in good condition. Some companies request a cash deposit or higher limits, which can strain your credit availability.

Clarify deposit amounts and release policies beforehand to avoid unexpected holds and fees. Upon booking, request details on “deposit release time” and “block duration,” and check with your bank about refund timelines to plan effectively.