Score a Bargain on Your Next Car Rental at Shannon Airport
If your travels take you to Ireland’s wild west coast, renting a car at Shannon Airport is a great way to explore Galway, Connemara, and beyond. But how can you find a good deal? Read on for insider tips on how to score a bargain at the car hire desks in Shannon Airport, and start your adventure off with full wallet, whatever vehicle you choose.
Geographically located between Clare, Limerick and Galway, Shannon Airport is Ireland’s second busiest airport and a major gateway for tourists visiting the Emerald Isle. As such, the car rental industry is highly competitive, with 6 different companies operating from the airport, and another 5 within a 15-minute drive; Avis, Budget, Europcar, Enterprise, Hertz, and Sixt.
For the best deals, the key is to book in advance, wherever possible. Generally speaking, the more flexible you can be, the less you’ll pay - so don’t be afraid to book ahead. Check out individual websites for promotional and membership deals - some car rental companies offer up to 20% discounts. If you’re an existing customer, they may also provide additional extras, such as a GPS or additional driver so you can share the load when travelling.
Make sure to use comparison sites too, as they can often find you better deals than going straight to a provider website. And don’t forget to double-check all information before committing; such as car size and included extras like GPS, insurance, or extra drivers.
At the car rental desk itself there are a few further steps you can take to score a bargain. Payment by debit card rather than credit card can save you a few extra euro - along with checking to see that additional drivers are all included in the initial agreement.
The main thing is to shop around. Thankfully, all of the main car rental companies have vehicles stationed at the Shannon Airport’s car rental centre, so you’ll have no trouble finding your ride.
For those who prefer a more eco-friendly option, don’t forget to ask about electric cars or hybrids. These are increasingly popular with companies, so you should be able to find something to fit your budget and fuel needs. Alternatively, you could always bring your own eco car or motorbike to the airport - a small number of spaces are available in designated long-term parking bays, making use of the convenient train connection to the city centre.
Finally, once you’ve scored your bargain, don’t forget the simple rules of the road. While driving in Ireland is considered generally safe, familiarising yourself with local road laws is essential - and will ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
So there you have it – a few simple steps to finding the best car rental deal in Shannon Airport. Now that you know the secrets of the car hire industry, there’s no excuse not to get out and explore the Emerald Isle!
