Which car hire is right for you?

f you’re going on holiday, before trying to track down the cheapest deal, there are three important questions to ask yourself:

• Do you actually need car hire? Public transport is dirt-cheap in some countries, so first check local bus or taxi prices and work out if you really need car hire.
• Could you take your own car? Is it possible to drive there? All UK car insurance policies automatically provide the minimum cover required by law in all EU countries, or the minimum cover in the UK (liability to third parties). Do check with your insurer. Also some breakdown recovery policies include driving in Europe, if not you can get it as a standalone extra (see Cheapest Breakdown Cover article).
• Do you need a flash car? Less popular models are cheaper as car hire works on a ‘supply and demand’ basis e.g.In Summer soft-top or coupes command a huge premium. Plus avoid gas guzzling 4x4s for simple day trips, and if you can drive a manual, do as it's cheaper, except in the USA, where it’s the other way round!