Car Hire at Mallorca Airport
Hiring a car for your Mallorca holiday is a fantastic way to explore the island at your own pace. However, with so many options and factors to consider, the process can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate your choices with ease, we’ve put together this essential guide.
Which car hire companies are based at Mallorca Airport?
There is a wide choice of car rental companies at Palma Airport. A number of these have desks right inside Palma de Mallorca Airport. Others have offices close to the airport and provide a free shuttle bus from and to the airport terminal.
Car hire companies at airport terminal
- Avis
- Alamo
- Enterprise
- Europcar
- Goldcar
- Hertz
- Record Go
- Rhodium
- Sixt
- Thrifty
“Offsite” car hire companies
- Centauro
- Click Rent
- eecar rental
- K10
Palma Airport car hire: onsite versus offsite
Onsite
If you choose a car hire company with a desk inside the airport terminal, there are several obvious advantages, although there may also be some drawbacks:
ADVANTAGES
- Convenience: The car hire desks are typically located within the terminal, allowing you to complete the paperwork and collect your vehicle with minimal hassle.
- Speed: Since the cars are usually parked in the multi-storey car park, just across the road from the airport terminal, you can get on the road faster.
- Availability: Some on-airport car hire companies operate round the clock, which is useful for late-night or early-morning arrivals.
- Easier returns: Returning the car is often quicker, as you simply drop it off at the designated space in the multi-storey car park opposite the terminal building.
DISADVANTAGES
- Higher costs: Airport-based car hire companies tend to charge more due to higher operating costs and demand.
- Busy queues: During peak travel periods, you may experience long waiting times at the car hire desks at Palma Airport
Offsite
Choosing an offsite car rental company also has its pros and cons:
ADVANTAGES
- Lower prices: Offsite companies typically have lower rental rates as they do not have to pay airport concession fees.
- More vehicle availability: Some offsite providers may have a larger or more varied fleet compared to on-airport companies.
- Potential for better customer service: Smaller, independent companies often focus on personalised service and flexibility.
DISADVANTAGES
- Transport required: You’ll need to take a shuttle bus to the hire location, which can add time and inconvenience.
- Limited operating hours: Some offsite companies may have restricted hours, which could be an issue if you have an early or late flight.
- More complicated returns: The off-site drop-off loaction may be a little harder to find and the process adds more time to your return journey to the airport. You will need to factor this in to ensure that you are still in time for your flight.
Ultimately, your decision depends on your budget, schedule, and willingness to trade off convenience for potential savings. If you have a tight itinerary or are travelling with children or lots of luggage, an on-airport company is usually more practical. However, if cost is your primary concern and you have time to spare, an offsite company could be a better option.
Do I need to pre-book my hire car?
Should I book at the car hire desk at Mallorca Airport or should I book in advance?
It’s generally better to book car hire in advance rather than waiting to book at the airport desk. Here’s a comparison of both options:
Booking in advance
1) Lower costs:
-Rental rates are typically cheaper when booked online in advance.
-Booking early often allows you to take advantage of promotions or discounts.
2) Better availability:
Popular vehicle types (e.g., SUVs, family cars) may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking in advance ensures you get the car you want.
3) Time savings:
The paperwork is usually faster with an advance booking. You’ll simply need to present your reservation details, minimising waiting times.
4) Opportunity to compare options:
Booking ahead gives you time to research and compare companies, prices, policies, and customer reviews.
5) Transparent pricing:
Online bookings clearly show all costs, allowing you to avoid unexpected charges or upselling at the airport desk.
Booking at the airport
1) Higher prices:
Rates at the airport desk are often much higher than online prices due to last-minute booking premiums.
2) Limited choice:
You may be left with fewer vehicle options, which may not meet your needs or budget.
3) Longer waiting times:
Without a reservation, you might spend extra time filling out forms and waiting for vehicle availability.
4) Increased pressure:
At the desk, you might feel rushed or pressured into purchasing expensive add-ons or insurance.
Booking in advance ensures peace of mind, cost savings, and better choices, making it the smarter option in most cases.
Should I use a price comparison website or can I get a better deal when booking with a rental company directly?
When booking car hire, both price comparison websites and booking directly with a car hire company can have their advantages. The better option depends on your priorities, such as price, convenience, or loyalty benefits. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Using a price comparison website
Advantages:
1) Easier price comparison:
-Allows you to compare prices, vehicle types, and rental terms across multiple companies in one place.
-Helps to identify the cheapest or best value option quickly.
2) Discounted rates:
Many comparison sites negotiate exclusive deals with rental companies, often offering better rates than booking directly.
3) Transparency:
Most comparison sites clearly display extra fees, insurance options, and policies, allowing you to make an informed choice.
4) Flexibility:
-Some sites offer free cancellation or easy modifications on bookings.
-They often allow you to filter results based on specific needs (e.g., unlimited mileage, fuel policy, etc).
Disadvantages:
1) Limited loyalty benefits:
If you frequently rent from the same company, booking through a third-party site might not allow you to use loyalty points or perks.
2) Customer support:
If problems arise, you may need to deal with the comparison site instead of the rental company, which can complicate matters.
Booking directly
Advantages:
1) Loyalty benefits:
Frequent renters can earn rewards, discounts, or upgrades through company loyalty programs.
Direct bookings often allow the use of points or special membership rates.
2) Better customer service:
Dealing directly with the company simplifies communication for changes, cancellations, or resolving issues.
3) Exclusive deals:
Some rental companies offer promotions, package deals (e.g., flight + car), or discounts only available through their website or app.
4) Tailored terms:
Booking directly can sometimes give you more flexibility to customise rental terms, such as adding insurance or specific pick-up/drop-off times.
Disadvantages:
1) Higher prices:
Direct prices can sometimes be higher than those found on price comparison websites, especially without promotions.
2) Time-consuming:
Comparing multiple companies manually is more time-intensive than using a comparison site.
In a nutshell:
Use a price comparison website if:
- You’re looking for the lowest price.
- You want to compare multiple companies easily.
- You’re not tied to a specific rental company’s loyalty program.
Book directly if:
- You’re a frequent renter or a loyalty program member.
- You’ve found a special promotion or deal on the company’s website.
- You prefer direct communication with the rental company for flexibility or support.
How to save money on your Mallorca Airport car hire
Hiring a car can be a significant expense, taking a big chunk out of your holiday budget. So, how can you keep costs down? Beyond the obvious point of choosing a smaller vehicle, there are several other ways to save money on car hire. In this short video, we’ve rounded up some essential tips to help you get the best deal.
The legalities around car hire at Palma de Mallorca Airport
The legalities around hiring a car can be quite confusing, as there is a lot to keep in mind: what are the requirements for hiring a car, what documentation do I need to bring and and what type of insurance is needed? Here is a summary of the most important points.
Age requirements
How old do I need to be to hire a car at Palma Airport?
In Spain, the minimum age to hire a car is generally 21 years old, but this can vary depending on the rental company and vehicle type. Here are the key details:
- The standard minimum age is 21, but some companies allow rentals from 18.
- Drivers under 25 usually have to pay a young driver surcharge.
- Some rental companies may require drivers to have held a full driving licence for one or two years.
- Luxury or high-performance vehicles often have a higher minimum age requirement, typically 25 or even 30.
Is there an upper age limit for hiring a car?
There is no official maximum age for hiring a car in Spain, but individual car hire companies may have their own restrictions. Here’s what you need to know:
- Some rental companies set an upper age limit, typically between 70 and 80 years old.
- Others may allow older drivers but require additional insurance or charge a senior driver surcharge.
- Policies vary by company, so it’s important to check in advance.
- Compare different providers, as some are more flexible with age limits.
- Some companies may ask for a medical certificate or proof of fitness to drive for older drivers.
Documents needed for car hire at Mallorca Airport
Which documents do I need to bring to the car hire desk?
Full, valid driving licence
- EU/UK Licences: A standard UK or EU driving licence is accepted.
- Non-EU Licences: If your licence is issued outside the EU, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your original licence. Some rental companies may accept non-EU licences in English, but it’s best to check in advance.
Passport or national ID card
- If you are from outside Spain, you will need a passport to confirm your identity.
- EU citizens have the option between a passport or a national ID card.
Credit card in the main driver’s name
- Most car hire companies require a credit card for the security deposit. The card must be in the name of the main driver.
- Some companies accept debit cards, but this is less common and may come with additional conditions.
Proof of booking (optional but recommended)
A copy of your rental confirmation or voucher (if booked online) can help speed up the process.
Additional requirements
- Some rental companies may ask for proof of address (e.g., a utility bill) or travel details.
- If you are under 25 or over 70, check if additional documents or insurance are needed.
TIP
Before travelling, always check the specific requirements of your car hire company to avoid any last-minute issues.
What type of insurance do I need to hire a car?
When hiring a car, having the right insurance is essential to protect yourself from unexpected costs. Most car hire companies provide basic cover as standard, but it’s important to understand what is included and whether you need additional protection. Here’s a breakdown of the key types of insurance you may need:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) / Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
- Usually included in the rental price or available as an add-on.
- Covers damage to the rental car but often comes with a high excess (the amount you must pay before the insurance covers the rest).
- Usually excludes damage to tyres, windscreens, undercarriage, and roof.
Theft Protection (TP)
- Covers the cost if the car is stolen or damaged due to theft.
- Often included in the rental price but may come with an excess.
Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL)
- Covers damage or injury caused to other people, vehicles, or property.
- Generally included in car hire agreements but may have limits on coverage.
Excess Insurance (Super CDW / Excess Waiver Insurance)
- Reduces or eliminates the excess you would need to pay in case of damage or theft.
- Offered by the rental company but often at a high daily rate.
- You can buy a standalone excess insurance policy from a third-party provider, which is usually cheaper.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
- Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in the event of an accident.
- Often unnecessary if you have travel insurance that already includes medical cover.
Breakdown Cover
- Some hire companies include basic roadside assistance, but full breakdown cover may be an extra cost.
- Ensures help is available if you experience a flat tyre, battery issues, or other mechanical problems.
Still confused? Here is the best approach to navigating your car hire insurance:
- Always check what is included in your rental agreement.
- Consider buying standalone excess insurance from a third party to avoid high charges from the rental company.
- Ensure you have adequate third-party liability cover.
- Check your travel insurance policy, as it may already include personal accident cover.
Driving in Mallorca
Before you set off in your hire car, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with local traffic regulations and practices to ensure a safe journey. Here are some key points to consider:
Driving regulations
- Driving side: In Spain, vehicles are driven on the right-hand side of the road.
- Speed limits: Unless indicated otherwise, the standard speed limits are:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h
- Open roads: 90 km/h
- Motorways: 120 km/h
- Seat belts: All occupants must wear seat belts at all times.
- Mobile phones: Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you’re using a hands-free system.
- Alcohol limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l (0.25 mg/l in exhaled air). It’s advisable to avoid consuming alcohol if you plan to drive.
- Child safety: Children under 135 cm in height must use appropriate child restraint systems and occupy the rear seats.
Equipment and documentation
Ensure your rental car is equipped with:
- Warning triangle
- Reflective vest
- Spare set of light bulbs
You will need to have with you:
- Rental agreement: This serves as proof that you have legally hired the vehicle. It may be required in case of a police check or an accident.
- Vehicle registration document (Permiso de Circulación): This document proves that the car is legally registered in Spain. The rental company should provide a copy.
- Insurance certificate: Ensure you have proof of the car’s insurance coverage, which is typically included in the rental agreement.
- Your driving licence: If you are from the UK, your photocard licence is sufficient. However, if you have an older paper licence, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- ID or passport: Spanish authorities may request identification, so carry your passport or national ID card along with your driving licence.
- If you wear glasses, it’s recommended to carry a spare pair while driving.
Parking
- White zones: Free parking areas.
- Blue zones: Paid parking zones; ensure you purchase a ticket from nearby machines.
- Yellow zones: Parking is prohibited.
Always observe local signage to avoid fines or towing.
Additional information
- Roundabouts: Traffic within the roundabout has the right of way. Yield to vehicles already circulating.
- Cyclists: Mallorca is popular among cyclists. Maintain a safe distance when overtaking and be vigilant on rural roads.
- Mountain roads: When driving in mountainous areas, be cautious of sharp bends and narrow passages. Use lower gears when navigating steep descents.
We hope you have a fantastic time exploring the beautiful island of Mallorca in your hire car. We wish you a safe journey!