Over 40% of Irish holidaymakers had issues with their car rental last summer, new CCPC research reveals

May 18, 2026

New research from the Competition and Consumer Protection (CCPC) has revealed widespread problems with international car hire as four in ten Irish holidaymakers reported issues with their rental while abroad last summer. The top issues reported were long wait times, hidden fees, and the car not being as described.

Read the full survey report here.

As summer holidays approach, the CCPC is advising consumers to take precautions to avoid paying more when renting a car abroad this summer.

CCPC Director of Communications Grainne Griffin said,

“Our CCPC research reveals a shocking level of consumer problems with car hire abroad. 43% experienced issues ranging from hidden fees to long waits and cars not matching the booking. This reflects really poorly on the sector, and while the CCPC has tackled and will continue to tackle individual traders, consumers planning on booking a car this summer need to be aware of the real, and potentially expensive, risks. A summer holiday should be a time for rest and relaxation. Instead, consumers are being hit with long delays, unexpected costs and stressful disputes.

Renting a car abroad can be stressful at the best of times. You may be stuck for time, communicating in a different language, or collecting the car in the dark or in bad weather.

Still, you must take steps to protect yourself when picking up the car. Make sure any existing damage is noted by the company. Take your own clear photos and videos of the interior and the exterior. If you’re not happy with the car’s condition or it’s not what you paid for, return it immediately.”

Hidden fees and unexpected add-ons

• Almost one in three (31%) paid more than they originally expected
• Of those who experienced issues with hidden fees, 24% were with toll charges and 23% were with fuel charges

Grainne Griffin said

“Unexpected add-on charges such as tolls, fuel charges and late fees can drive up your costs significantly. Before you drive off, make sure to check the fuel policy in your rental agreement. If you need to return the car with a full tank, factor a trip to the petrol station into your holiday plans. Ask about the policy for toll charges – do you need to pay them yourself or are they added to your bill?

When you’re returning the car, give yourself enough time so you’re not hit with a late fee. Make sure you get the car inspected and close off your bill before you leave.”

Expect the unexpected: Reports from the CCPC helpline

So far in 2026, the CCPC helpline has received 78 contacts about issues relating to car rental, mostly with unexpected or excessive charges. Here are some of the issues reported by consumers:

“I paid in advance, but when I went to collect the car, I was advised that they don’t accept debit cards. My booking was cancelled.”

“They never mentioned anything about additional insurance, but I’ve been charged €274.40. I trusted them and signed the contract without reading it.”

“I made the mistake of not taking a video and now they are charging me €2,000 for damages that I didn’t make.”

“We were due to pick up the car at 15.30 but we didn’t arrive until 18.30. They only hold the car for two hours after the booking time, so they cancelled our booking.”

Excessive insurance costs

• Seven in ten (70%) consumers purchased at least one type of insurance
• Of those who purchased insurance, over 4 in 5 purchased through the car rental company
• Those who purchased insurance were twice as likely to report spending more than expected as those who didn’t

Grainne Griffin said,

“Accidents can happen – a small scratch can become a huge cost if you’re not covered. Most companies will offer basic third-party insurance, but you may want to consider extra cover to protect you from a high excess charge. Consider this at the booking stage so you don’t feel under pressure at the desk.

To avoid overpaying for insurance, shop around. You can buy extra cover directly from the car hire company, but you may be able to get a better deal from another insurer. If you are planning multiple trips, an annual policy could save you money.”

Credit cards still a requirement for many

• Three in four (76%) were required to provide a credit card for the security hold
• One in four (25%) have a credit card for the sole purpose of renting a car

Ms. Griffin said,

“Credit cards present problems for lots of consumers. Not all car hire bookings require a credit card, but many do. Even if you pay for your car hire with a debit card, some local pick-up offices will require a physical credit card, in the name of the main driver, valid for the next 6 months, and with a credit limit high enough to cover the excess. Consumers need to scrutinise terms and conditions so they are not caught out at the pick-up stage. If you don’t, your booking could be cancelled without any refund.”

CCPC engagement

The CCPC has taken a proactive role in strengthening consumer protection in the car rental sector by participating in an EU‑wide sweep of third‑party car rental websites in 2022, led by the European Commission. The exercise identified shortcomings in how key information, such as deposits, insurance and contracting parties, was presented to consumers. Following this, the CCPC engaged directly with major intermediaries. These actions have resulted in meaningful improvements to consumer information and contract transparency.

Ms. Griffin concluded,

“By working closely with our European counterparts, the CCPC helped drive real improvements in how car rental information is presented to consumers. These changes mean greater transparency at booking and stronger protections for people renting cars online.”

Check out our website for more tips and information on your rights: www.ccpc.ie/carrental

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