How to Avoid Extra Fees When Renting a Car in Ireland

Renting a car in Ireland is one of the best ways to explore the country’s rugged coastlines, charming towns, and remote countryside. While public transport covers major cities and tourist spots, a rental car gives you the freedom to experience Ireland at your own pace.

However, many travelers find themselves surprised by hidden fees and unexpected costs when picking up or dropping off their rental. Understanding how these charges work—and how to avoid them—can save you hundreds of euros. In this article, I’ll share my own experiences, research-backed insights, and practical tips to help you rent a car in Ireland without breaking the bank.

---

Why Extra Fees Matter

Hidden fees can often double the cost of your rental. According to a 2023 study by the Irish Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), nearly 40% of complaints about car rentals in Ireland were related to unexpected charges. These range from insurance add-ons to fuel policies, late return fees, and damage disputes.

When I rented a car from Dublin Airport last year, my €250 booking quickly turned into €420 after insurance, additional driver charges, and a refueling penalty. With better preparation, I could have avoided most of these costs.

---

Common Extra Fees When Renting a Car in Ireland

Here are the most frequent charges travelers encounter:

1. Insurance Fees (CDW, SCDW, Excess Cover)

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Often mandatory in Ireland. Some companies include it, while others charge extra.
• Super CDW / Excess Reduction: Reduces the deductible (often €1,500–€3,000). Without it, you risk a huge bill for small scratches.
• Tip: Many credit cards (e.g., Chase Sapphire, Amex) offer primary rental coverage, but Ireland is sometimes excluded. Always confirm with your card provider before declining coverage.

---

2. Additional Driver Fees

• Expect to pay €10–€15 per day for each extra driver.
• If you’re traveling with family or friends, this adds up quickly.
• Tip: Compare companies—some, like Hertz and Enterprise, occasionally run promotions where the first extra driver is free.

---

3. Young or Senior Driver Fees

• Drivers under 25 or over 75 often face extra charges or stricter insurance terms.
• These can add €30–€50 per day.
• Tip: Check rental policies before booking. Some local Irish rental firms have more flexible rules than global brands.

---

4. Fuel Policies

• Full-to-Full: Best option—pick up full, return full.
• Full-to-Empty: You’ll pay inflated fuel prices upfront and won’t get refunded for unused fuel.
• Tip: Always choose Full-to-Full and refuel near the airport/city centre before returning.

---

5. Cross-Border Fees

• Planning to drive into Northern Ireland? Many companies charge an extra fee (€25–€50).
• Tip: Declare cross-border travel in advance to ensure insurance coverage.

---

6. One-Way Rental Fees

• Picking up in Dublin and dropping off in Cork or Shannon often incurs €50–€100 extra.
• Tip: If possible, plan a round-trip route starting and ending at the same location.

---

7. Late Return & Out-of-Hours Fees

• Returning even 30 minutes late can trigger a full-day charge.
• Out-of-hours drop-offs may incur a €25–€40 fee.
• Tip: Stick to your rental period and confirm 24/7 return options.

---

8. Damage & Cleaning Fees

• Even minor scratches or dirty interiors may lead to hefty charges.
• Tip: Take detailed photos/videos of the car at pickup and drop-off. Some travelers even use timestamped video evidence in disputes.

---

How to Avoid Extra Fees: Practical Tips

Based on my own experiences and industry research, here’s how to keep your rental affordable:

✅ Book Early – Prices rise closer to peak tourist season (June–August).
✅ Read the Fine Print – Check what’s included before you book.
✅ Use Credit Card Insurance – If valid for Ireland, decline costly coverage.
✅ Choose Local Companies – Firms like Dooley Car Rentals or Irish Car Rentals sometimes offer better terms than big brands.
✅ Inspect the Car Thoroughly – Note every scratch, no matter how small.
✅ Refuel Yourself – Always keep receipts as proof.
✅ Avoid Airport Surcharges – Sometimes, city-centre rentals are cheaper.
✅ Bundle Rentals – If you need extras (GPS, child seats), renting separately can be cheaper than booking through the rental company.

---

Cost Comparison: Example Rental in Dublin Airport

Company	Base Price (3 Days)	Insurance (SCDW)	Extra Driver	Total (Est.)
Hertz	€150	€120	€40	€310
Enterprise	€160	€100	€30	€290
Dooley Rentals	€140	€80	€35	€255

Prices based on averages for mid-size cars in 2024; may vary by season.

---

FAQs

1. Is car rental insurance really mandatory in Ireland?
Yes, CDW is required by law. Some companies let you waive it if your credit card covers Ireland, but most will still place a large hold (€2,000+) on your card.

2. Can I avoid extra fees by booking through a third-party site (like DiscoverCars or AutoEurope)?
Sometimes yes—aggregators often include insurance in the base rate, making it easier to compare. But always confirm with the rental desk.

3. What if I get into a minor accident?
If you have SCDW, your liability is minimal. Without it, you could be charged thousands. Always file a police report and notify the rental company immediately.

---

Final Thoughts

Renting a car in Ireland opens up some of the most breathtaking road trips in the world—from the Wild Atlantic Way to the Ring of Kerry. But extra fees can quickly sour the experience if you’re not prepared.

By understanding the common charges and following simple strategies—like choosing the right insurance, refueling yourself, and inspecting the vehicle—you can keep your rental costs predictable and stress-free.

I’ve personally made mistakes (like paying €70 for not refueling near Dublin Airport), but those experiences taught me the importance of reading the fine print. With the right preparation, you can focus less on hidden charges and more on enjoying Ireland’s scenic drives.