Renting a car is something most of us have done at least once in our lives, but that doesn’t mean it’s always straightforward. Before choosing which rental agency to rely on, it’s important to pay attention to several key details.
When you want to explore a destination freely and with complete autonomy, a vehicle is often essential. For example, driving around Sardinia is the best way to discover specific areas of the island, make spontaneous stops to admire the scenery, and plan a tailor-made itinerary exactly as you imagined it. You have several options: on one hand, renting on site; on the other, booking online… or you could bring your own car! In the first two cases, you can book a car in Olbia or Cagliari and choose from a wide range of solutions designed for different needs.
Today, however, we want to focus on the differences between booking a rental car online and doing it on site. What are the pros and cons? Keep reading!
Pros and cons of booking online
First of all, renting online is generally more convenient than renting upon arrival. You can compare offers, choose the most affordable option for your budget, and read the terms and conditions calmly without risks of hidden fees or unpleasant surprises.
Booking in advance also guarantees that your car will be waiting for you when you arrive, allowing you to start your holiday immediately.
The downsides of online booking are mainly related to choosing the wrong agency. For this reason, it’s essential to select a reliable, safe, and reputable provider, avoiding companies with poor or non-existent customer support. A useful tip is to research the agency you’re considering and read reviews from customers who have used their services before you.
Pros and cons of renting on site
Renting a car directly on site is convenient for those who decide at the last minute to organise a road trip and haven’t had time to plan ahead. Airports generally host several rental agencies, allowing travellers to complete the procedure even without a prior booking.
However, the disadvantages can be significant. There’s no guarantee that the right car will be available, especially if you’re travelling with a group and need a large vehicle—think, for example, of a family looking for a minivan. You also lose the chance to compare offers and prices, and you won’t have the time to read the conditions carefully or to check for clauses or fees that might not work in your favour.
On-site rental is recommended only during low season or if you already trust the agency you plan to use. In all other cases, it’s always better to plan ahead! 😉
