Car hire - Faro Portugal

gashead1985

Hi

Im looking to book 2 cars to hire from Faro airport in June. I've carried out many searches on sites and had a range of different quotes. I just want to make sure i don't have to pay some hidden charges at the airport. As in the past this has happened. Anyone know of any companies which don't do this and you just pay in advance and nothing surprises you when picking the car up!

Thanks

apt

The T&Cs should state whether airport pick up is included in the rate. It generally is these day. A more common problem is a full/empty fuel policy which would force you to pay for a full tank of fuel at an expensive price. Check also on the excess and if you decide to take out an excess insurance elsewhere make sure the hire company does not also charge you for a zero excess policy.

lagoslife

apt is right about the excess/fuel charges, these are the two biggest 'scams' that some unreputable hirers charge for.

There are lots of recommendations on tripadvisor Algarve forum, these include Luzcar, Lagorent and autojardim.

Mickyp

I regularly book hire cars from Faro and always do it through Holiday Autos. Not always the cheapest, but they use the 'bigger' hire firms. If you use the cheaper ones, they always have a big queue from a hut in the middle of the car park, the only time I used them it took 2 hours of queueing to get the car!

My advice, use Holiday Autos, get a quote, then email them to ask who the hire firm is as you have had bad experience in the past. They generally use Auriga Crown, who are ok, they have a proper office, not a hut!

They all try and charge you extra fro total excess waiver, but its up to you if you want it. I pay £40 for an annual policy. They all want their cars returning with a full tank of fuel, no big deal, there is a petrol station at the airport, fill it up before you hand it back!

Oh, and have a good check over the car when you pick it up and mark down any damage, no matter how small or they might try and bill you for it!

Have a good time, the Algarve is a great holiday destination!