Two in Five Irish Holidaymakers Face Car Rental Issues Abroad, CCPC Reports

A report from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) on Monday revealed that two in five Irish holidaymakers experienced difficulties with overseas car rentals last year. Common problems included long waiting times, hidden fees, and misleading descriptions. These issues have persisted into 2026, with the CCPC helpline receiving 78 contacts regarding car rental problems, primarily unexpected or excessive charges.

Examples cited include a consumer whose prepaid booking was cancelled because the company did not accept debit cards, and another who was charged €274 for additional insurance not mentioned initially, after signing a contract unread. A third consumer's booking was cancelled when they arrived three hours late for a pick-up with a two-hour holding window.

Grainne Griffin, CCPC director of communications, advised consumers to research thoroughly before booking, check reviews, confirm pick-up location accessibility, and compare services. She stressed the importance of documenting the car's condition with photos/videos, returning unsatisfactory vehicles immediately, and allowing ample time for returns to avoid late fees. Griffin also recommended inspecting the car and closing the bill at the desk.

Consumers should understand insurance options, noting that most companies offer basic third-party insurance but extra cover might be needed for high excess charges. She emphasized checking credit card requirements for security deposits, ensuring the limit covers the excess, and confirming the credit card is in the main driver's name to prevent booking cancellations. The CCPC has actively worked to improve consumer protection in the car rental sector, including participating in a 2022 EU-wide review of third-party car rental websites, which led to improvements in information and contract transparency.