How I Hired a Rental Car from Belfast’s Airports for the Price of a Taxi

Meet Noddy Car - which I picked up from Budget last week at Belfast International Airport.

I called it Noddy car - as it reminded me of this.

It’s not exactly the sort of car that I’d want to own. If I got given it, I’d probably give it back, or sell it and buy something else.

The colour could be better, the ‘va va voom’ is questionable, it has zero curb appeal. It’s basic - with its 4 doors, 4 wheels, 4 seats, a steering wheel and brakes. There’s no Sat Nav, reversing camera or sensors.

What it has got loads of though is scratches and mileage.

It did do the trick for the 5 days that I needed it. In short - it’s not shite, but pretty close. If you want great value, you can’t expect a great car.

Driving a Great Deal - £62 for 5 days

Here’s how I did it step-by-step:

• Start early: I began searching about 6 months before my trip, after I booked the flights. Early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the cheapest of cars.

• Using SkyScanner: The interface is easy. Set the pick-up point location with dates and times appropriately. Watch the times, as prices are based on 24-hour slots - you’ll be paying for a whole day even if you just need the first hour.

• Filter/Sort carefully: I sorted results by price - because I’m a cheapskate, on-airport as I can’t be arsed with the hassle of off airport. I always take a cancellable option - plans and prices can change.

• Check insurance options: Instead of accepting the expensive insurance at the counter, consider alternatives. I use the AMEX car hire insurance that comes with my Platinum card. You can also buy hire car insurance as a separate standalone product from lots of suppliers.

• Initial Booking: Most times, it is just a small refundable deposit when booking, and the remainder on collection.

• And monitor: Initial booking cost £80 with Auto Europe, I then checked prices every few weeks. There were two occasions when the price dropped (first to £74 with Orbit, then to £62.60 again with Orbit - same company), and so I cancelled and rebooked to lock in the cheaper rate, the advantage of a cancellable booking. £7.60 refundable deposit, with £55 to pay at the counter.

This approach continues to save me a fair bit at different airports and countries around the world.

Noddy car is not an individual either. I can only assume by the colour that they weren’t selling, and Avis/budget bought up a significant number for a great deal.

The staff, all around, from collection at the counter to return inspection are efficient.

Booking Direct Is a Wrong Turn

Most people think booking a car directly from the rental company at the airport is the best way to go. It’s not.

I have never gotten the equivalent value when booking direct, and to be honest have given up trying to book direct.

Revisiting Your Booking Pays Off

One of the best tips I can share is to revisit your booking regularly. Prices fluctuate as the trip date approaches. Sometimes, a better deal pops up or an intermediary lowers their price to compete.

I checked my booking every few weeks and managed to shave off another 10% by cancelling and rebooking at a lower price. Just make sure your booking allows free cancellation or minimal fees.

Tips for Booking Car Hire at Belfast or any Airport

• Book early but keep an eye on prices: Lock in a good deal but revisit it.

• Avoid booking direct: Use consolidators to find the best intermediaries.

• Purchase insurance separately: Don’t buy insurance at the counter.

• Read reviews: Not all intermediaries are equal; pick those with good feedback.

• Check cancellation policies: Flexibility can save you money.

• Make notes: Apply learnings from your experience for the next time you are booking.

• Manage your expectations: Low cost will probably mean something similar to Noddy car.