Alternative options for rental car insurance?

CLN

When ever I rent a car they always try to sell me insanely expensive insurance, often costing the same as the rental it's self, which as far as I understand always has basic insurance covering any damage over around 1000 quid included by default.

So I've always turned them down, but I am worried that I am opening myself up to be taken advantage of, either by being charged large amounts for tiny scratches by flying stones on the highway, or even some damage that might have already been on the car. (I know some companies even intentionally do this to scam their customers).

So I was wondering if there is any cheaper way to avoid this risk? Maybe using some sort of travel/third party insurance? Or another trick or technique?

Any advice?

Quentin

Google hire car excess insurance to find insurers who offer cover for the excess far cheaper than paying the hirer