Car rental for vacation – how not to overpay?

Summer is fast approaching, and with it the holiday season, which for many means one thing: travel by car. If you are planning a trip and do not want to use your own car - renting a car for your holiday can be a great solution. However, in the summer season, prices can surprise you. How to avoid them? Check out our tips and find out how to cheaply rent a car for your holiday in 2025

Why do rental prices rise in summer?

In the summer, demand for cars increases dramatically – especially in popular tourist locations and at airports. This causes many rental companies to raise prices, limit availability and cancel promotions.

Additionally, during the summer months:

• Customers book cars further in advance.
• They are more likely to choose larger cars (SUVs, station wagons, vans).
• The number of short-term bookings (1–5 days) is increasing, which have a higher daily rate.

The closer to the season, the more expensive it is. This is a rule worth remembering when planning a car rental for the summer.

When is the best time to book a car for your vacation?

The best time to book a car is 4-6 weeks before your planned trip. That's when prices are still stable and the choice of models is wide.

If you are planning to rent for:

• May Day or Corpus Christi – book in April.
• July–August – look for a car in May or early June.

Remember: it's better to book in advance and possibly cancel than to be left without a car or overpay twice. At Mobicars you can cancel your reservation free of charge more than 72 hours before the vehicle is picked up.

Which cars are the cheapest in the summer season?

During the holiday season, many people focus on comfort and space. But if price is your priority, look at lower-end vehicles that are often overlooked.

Class A and B – economical models

These cars are ideal for shorter routes and journeys for 2-3 people, e.g.:

• Toyota Yaris
• Skoda Fabia
• MG 4 - electric car

Advantages:

• Low fuel consumption (average 5–6 l/100 km)
• The lowest daily rental rates
• Easy parking in cities

Differences between SUV and hatchback

SUVs are comfortable and spacious, but their rental can cost 40-70% more than hatchbacks. If you don't need a large boot or 4x4 drive - it's worth considering a compact hatchback, e.g. Skoda Fabia, Skoda Scala.

Hidden fees you can avoid

These are the ones that most often drive up the final rental cost. Pay attention to:

• A fee for exceeding the mileage limit (in our country: no limit in Poland!)
• Additional insurance (don't you already have similar insurance, e.g. on your credit card?)
• Fees for additional driver, child seat, GPS
• Late vehicle return - often an additional fee for night service

Always read the regulations and the lease agreement. If there is any doubt – ask before signing!

Discount codes and promotions – where to find them?

Most rental companies offer seasonal promotions, but you need to know where to look for them:

• Social media – follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
• Google Maps – many companies add local discounts (e.g. "-10% when picking up in Krakow").

Summary: 9 practical tricks for saving money

1. Book at least 4 weeks before travel.
2. Choose class A or B cars.
3. Compare prices in multiple locations.
4. Avoid rental companies with mileage limits in Poland.
5. Return the car on time.
6. Make sure you have adequate insurance.
7. Get rid of unnecessary extras (e.g. GPS – use your phone).
8. Check out reviews of rental companies online.
9. Look for discount codes on the website or on social media.

Are you looking for a holiday car with no deposit and no mileage limit?

Book your car at MobiCars – convenient, fast and cheaper than you think!