With its myriad treasures, Scotland has something to offer to every traveller. With the Highlands up north, showcasing rugged terrain and Gaelic culture, to the bustling historic cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow in the Lowlands, Scotland is a land brimming with natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural richness.
The best way to explore this land is with the freedom of a rental car from Edinburgh Airport. However, without the right information and guidance, renting a car to explore Scotland can become needlessly expensive. You may face numerous costs that can shoot your trip expenses up.
Read on to find 5 key tips to avoid hidden car rental costs and enjoy Scotland worry-free.
Why Rent a Car at Edinburgh Airport?
1. Convenience
When you arrive at Edinburgh airport, you can rent a car right outside the terminal buildings. This means you no longer depend on public transport or airport taxi services to get to the city, and you can begin exploring Scotland right away.
A rental car also makes it easier to handle your luggage by giving you much-needed space and privacy to store your belongings.
2. Access to Popular Attractions
The airport is conveniently situated just off the M8 and M9 motorways, which means that with a car hire Edinburgh Airport, you can access Scotland’s most iconic attractions with ease. From here, you are only a short drive to Edinburgh City, home to the historic Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
The M8 motorway also offers a direct route to Glasgow. An airport Edinburgh car rental service is a convenient starting point for road trips to explore the Scottish Highlands, Loch Lomond, or Stirling Castle.
3. Tailor Your Itinerary
Renting a car for your travels means you can customise your itinerary and not have public transport schedules tie you down. You can decide where to stop and how much time to spend at each location.
In a rental car, you can also tweak your plans based on local recommendations, changing weather conditions, or your whims. If you want to visit less-explored attractions, driving there is the best option.
4. Comfort and Safety
Rental cars from top service providers have the latest safety features and comfort amenities. Further, the privacy and security of having your vehicle are unparalleled. Renting a car also opens up opportunities for bonding, whether you’re travelling with kids or in a group, offering both the time and space to create lasting memories together.
How to Avoid Extra Costs on Your Car Hire at Edinburgh Airport
1. Book in Advance
Securing a car hire at Edinburgh Airport UK before you arrive guarantees the availability of your preferred vehicle and helps you negotiate a better rate. Early booking allows you to take advantage of promotional offers and discounts.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand; make the most of discounts, which are usually available during off-season. This way, you can lock in lower prices and avoid cost hikes that come with last-minute reservations.
2. Understand Insurance Policy
Car rental insurance can affect the overall cost of your booking. In Scotland, the law requires all drivers to have a minimum insurance coverage, which car rental companies must provide. However, this basic coverage often comes with a high excess. You can reduce this by purchasing additional insurance to secure the necessary coverage.
Remember to review your insurance options carefully and understand the policy’s coverage and exclusions. Check the coverage offered by your personal car insurance and credit card, and avoid duplicating these coverages. Also, be clear on the terms regarding damage, theft, and liability to be sure you are not paying for unnecessary coverage.
3. Select the Right Car
The type of car you choose can significantly affect your rental costs. Consider the size and efficiency of the car hire at Edinburgh airport based on your planned activities and the number of passengers.
A small, fuel-efficient car is usually less expensive to rent and operate. Smaller cars are best suited for city tours and shorter day trips. However, if you’re planning to explore the rugged landscapes of the Highlands, a larger vehicle with adequate power might be necessary.
4. Select the Right Fuel Policy
Car rental companies offer various fuel policies and selecting the right one can save you money. The most common policy in Scotland is ‘full to full’, where you pick up the car with a full tank and are expected to return it full. This policy encourages you to pay only for the fuel you use instead of a ‘pre-purchase’ policy, where you pay upfront for a full tank and can return the car at any fuel level.
The ‘full to full’ policy is generally the most cost-effective option.
5. Choose your Add-ons Wisely
Additional services and equipment can quickly raise your rental cost. Common add-ons include GPS navigation system, child seats, and additional driver coverage. Before opting for these extras, consider whether they are necessary for your trip.
For example, many smartphones have navigation apps that can substitute for a GPS unit, and airlines often allow you to check a child seat as luggage at no extra cost. If you’re travelling with a partner who will also drive, adding another driver is essential, so check for additional costs.
Final Thoughts
Renting a car at Edinburgh Airport opens the door to exploring Scotland’s breathtaking attractions with convenience, flexibility, and comfort.
If you seek to add ease and efficiency to your Scottish adventure, book a vehicle with Hertz Car Rental. Our diverse fleet includes everything from luxurious sedans and sporty convertibles to eco-friendly, zero-emission cars, ensuring all your travel needs are met. Book a car with Hertz Car Rental today and begin your journey through Scotland in confidence and style.
