Renting a car in Spain is the way to discover the country in complete freedom. Whether you dream of deserted bays on the Costa Cálida or charming villages in the interior of Murcia: a rental car is the right choice. But beware: if you don’t prepare well, you will soon be faced with surprises.
In this article, you’ll discover all the important do’s & don’ts when renting a car in Spain, including tips on insurance, deposit, refueling, and more. This way you can go on the road carefree!
✅ Do: Book your rental car in advance (and in the right name)
Always book your rental car in advance, especially during holiday periods. This way you benefit from lower prices and more choice.
➤ Important: always book in the name of the main driver with his/her own credit card.
Why? The deposit is blocked on that credit card. Are you booking in a different name? Then you have to pay extra for a second driver – and that can add up quite a bit.
Use a reliable comparison site such as discovercars.com. This way you can be sure that you never pay too much. What I love about them is that they work with local travel agencies and usually find the cheapest fares. I also find it useful that you can easily compare the reviews of those agencies. So be sure to book your rental car through discovercars.com in the future!
❌ Don’t: Blindly choose the cheapest rental car
A low rent seems attractive, but always check what is included:
Is there insurance with or without a deductible?
Do you have to pay extra for a full tank?
How many kilometers can you drive?
Cheap = often a lot of extra costs on site. Read the fine print!
✅ Do: Choose a good insurance policy (but compare)
You can take out all-in insurance with the landlord, but that is often expensive. A smart(er) option: take out separate insurance yourself, for example through Revolut.
✅ Advantages:
Much cheaper than with the rental company
Full coverage in the event of damage or theft
Deposit will be refunded in case of problems
💳 Please note: a deposit will still be blocked on your credit card (often between €500 – €1500). This is only released once you return the car without damage – and this can take up to several weeks.
✅ Do: Check your rental car thoroughly before departure
Avoid discussions afterwards. Walk around the car, take pictures of any scratch or damage, and have it noted on the rental contract. Also Check:
Tank capacity
Mileage
Lighting & mirrors
⛽ Do: Pay attention when refueling in Spain
At some gas stations, you have to withdraw a fixed amount in advance (e.g. €50, €100 or €150).
⚠️ Please note: the amount you do not use will not always be refunded immediately!
💡 Tip: if possible, choose a petrol station where you pay afterwards after refuelling.
🛣️ Do: Check if you want to avoid toll roads
Spain has relatively few toll roads, but they do exist – especially in the north and around larger cities.
Use Waze or Google Maps to turn toll roads on or off. The regular roads are often quieter and more scenic – perfect for a road trip!
❌ Don’t: Wrong parking = risk fine
Spain works with color codes for parking zones:
White = usually free
Blue = paying (vending machine or app)
Yellow = no parking
Always check the traffic signs. Parking in the wrong place? The fines are often collected immediately from tourists.
✅ Do: Choose a car that suits your itinerary
Are you staying in the city? → compact car is convenient and economical
Do you drive to nature reserves or rough roads? → SUV or car with higher bottom
Also, consider luggage space if you’re traveling with kids or planning longer trips.
✅ Bonus: Use Offline Navigation
Download offline maps via Google Maps or Maps.me in case you are without mobile coverage. Super handy in mountainous or remote regions!
✨ How to rent a car in Spain without worries
Renting a car in Spain is a great way to see more of the country. With these tips, you will be well prepared – without surprises when picking up or returning your car.
📌 Summarized:
Book in the name of the driver with credit card
Choose insurance without excess (external or through landlord)
Check your car thoroughly
Be careful when refueling & parking
Consider offline navigation & avoid toll roads if desired
Have you already rented a car in Spain? Share your experience or extra tips in the comments – or send us a message on Instagram. 🚘🇪🇸
