Car hire warning for ferry passengers

Many people could choose this summer to climb on board ferries from Dover to Calais. Whether it is all about avoiding the hype and the crowds in the Olympics, escaping the rain or just because an annoying TV advert featuring Stephen Fry told them to stay at home, there will be many who are keen to get away.

France may be a favoured place to go, along with several other nearby continental destinations that could be reached by ferry.

But once there, tourists will be faced with the question of how to get around. Some may choose public transport and when visiting major cities well served by trains, buses, trams, or underground systems this may make sense. Others, however, may wish to hire a car, not least if they are venturing a bit off the beaten track.

However, those who have saved money by getting a good ferry deal instead of using more expensive travel options could find the gain being wiped out by unnecessary excess insurance charges.

Ernesto Suarez, founder and CEO of icarhireinsurance.com, advised that this is a way many travellers get stung, but said it can be avoided by booking in advance.

He explained: "When you get to the car hire desk, you're going to be offered excess insurance by a car rental agent. Everybody knows this is quite pricey – it sells for an average of £15 to £20 per day with the varying car rental companies when you pick up your car. All I have to say is, do your research beforehand."

This way, he said, people can get much better and cheaper deals.

Mr Suarez also advised people to plan ahead by working out what kind of vehicle they need, as hiring one that is larger than needed can lead to needless extra cost.

A recent survey by Post Office Money indicated that with sterling's recent appreciation in value against the euro, filling up at a fuel station in the eurozone can be as much as 10.4 per cent cheaper, with diesel in particular being notably cheaper than in the UK.

Posted by Mark Robinson
 

Dover - Calais

1 x Foot Passenger(s) Return

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31/05/2013 - 31/05/2013

£13

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Dover - Calais

Car + 2 Return

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16/06/2013 - 16/06/2013

£25

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Dover - Calais

Car + 4 Return

Travelling on:

31/05/2013 - 31/05/2013

£25

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