Two numbers matter almost as much as the rental price: the excess and the deposit. Both are shown in the rental terms of every car before you pay.
What is the excess?
Most rentals include basic damage and theft cover (CDW and TP). The excess is the maximum amount you would pay towards damage or theft under that cover. It typically ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand euros depending on the car and the country.
What is the deposit?
At pick-up, the supplier blocks an amount on the main driver's credit card, usually equal to the excess, sometimes plus a fuel deposit. This is a hold, not a charge.
When you return the car on time, undamaged and with the right fuel level, the hold is released. Most banks show it back on your available limit within a few days, but some take up to a few weeks.
Ways to reduce the risk
- Excess cover when you book. Many offers include the option to add damage cover during booking. If the supplier charges you for damage, you claim the amount back. You still need the deposit on your card.
- Supplier's own excess waiver at the desk (often called SCDW or Super Cover). This reduces the excess, sometimes to zero, and often the deposit too. It's usually the most expensive option.
- Annual excess insurance from an independent insurer, if you rent several times a year.
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