Car Hire Tips for Irish Holidaymakers in Spain

A calm coastal drive in Spain, popular with Irish holidaymakers.

Spain remains one of the most popular destinations for Irish holidaymakers. Warm weather, easy flights and family friendly resorts make it a favourite for summer travel. Hiring a car can give you more freedom on your trip, but many Irish visitors are caught by surprise when they face unexpected fees at the desk.

This guide explains in simple terms how car hire works in Spain and how to avoid extra charges. With the right preparation, you can enjoy your holiday with confidence and avoid unnecessary costs.

Why Irish Visitors Choose to Hire a Car in Spain

Driving in Spain allows you to explore beaches, towns and countryside at your own pace. Public transport works well in cities, but it can be limited in resort areas. A hire car offers freedom and often works out cheaper than paying for taxis during peak season.

If you want to see the range of providers available, you can visit our Spain car hire page.

Understanding Car Hire Excess and How It Works

An excess is the amount you agree to pay if the car is damaged or stolen. Spanish car hire companies usually place a hold on your card for this amount. It is common for excess figures in Spain to range from a few hundred euro to well over one thousand euro, depending on the provider.

Many Irish holidaymakers are surprised by these holds when they arrive at the desk. Staff may offer extra cover at this point, but the cost can be high.

How Irish Holidaymakers Can Reduce or Avoid Excess Fees

– Purchase excess cover before you travel through a trusted provider
– Decline add ons at the desk that you do not need
– Check the booking details in advance to avoid surprises
– Book early to secure lower excess and deposit amounts
– Know that airports such as Malaga, Alicante and Faro may have higher demand during summer

If you want peace of mind for medical cover or delayed bags, you can also review your options on our travel insurance page.

Fuel Policies in Spain and the One to Avoid

Fuel rules vary between providers. The most common is Full to Full, where you collect the car with a full tank and return it full. This tends to be the best value for Irish travellers.

Some companies offer Full to Empty or prepaid fuel. These options are usually more expensive because the price per litre is higher, and unused fuel is rarely refunded. Always check the fuel rule before you finalise your booking.

Credit Card Deposits and What You Need to Know

Most car hire companies in Spain require a credit card for the security deposit. A preauthorised hold is placed on the card and released when the car is returned without issues.

If you only have a debit card, your choice of provider may be limited. Some companies accept debit cards, but deposits may be higher.

Some providers require lower deposits than others, so always review this before you confirm your booking.

Common Add Ons and Extra Charges in Spain

Understanding the possible add ons helps you avoid paying for unwanted extras. Some common ones include:

– Additional driver fees
– Young driver charges for those under a certain age
– Toll fees and electronic tag charges
– Cross border fees if you plan to enter Portugal or France
– Late return charges
– Out of hours collection fees

Location Tips

Malaga Airport

Malaga is one of the busiest airports for Irish visitors. Queues can be long in summer, and there can be pressure at the desk to accept upgrades. Check the provider opening times and note that local roads can be busy around the Costa del Sol.

For detailed information and local tips, visit our Malaga car hire page.

Alicante Airport

Alicante is very popular during Easter and mid term breaks. The airport is known for strict deposit rules, so always read your booking terms carefully.

Checklist for Collecting a Car in Spain

– Inspect the car and take clear photos of every panel
– Take a photo of the mileage and fuel level before leaving the car park
– Check that the fuel rule matches what you booked
– Confirm the return time and location
– Read the paperwork to ensure no extra items have been added
– Check that the deposit amount matches what is stated in your booking

When to Book for the Best Price

Prices for car hire in Spain rise during peak season. Booking several weeks or months in advance often gives the best value. Last minute collection at the airport can be expensive, especially during school holidays.

Midweek pick ups may be cheaper in some locations, and early booking is especially important for Malaga, Alicante and the Costa del Sol.

Final Advice for Irish Holidaymakers

Hiring a car in Spain is straightforward once you understand the key points. By checking the excess, fuel rule, and deposit before you travel, you can enjoy your holiday without stress at the desk.

To compare available options, visit our main Spain car hire page. For local guidance on the Costa del Sol, see our Malaga car hire page.