You may already know about car hire security deposits; you may have been caught out by some companies hiding such details. That is something we’d never do, and it’s always shown on the search results and throughout the booking process. This way, you know exactly what to expect when you arrive at the rental desk. But what if you don’t want to pay a security deposit, what then?
Why security deposits exist
A quick recap: car rental security deposits exist for just that, security. They are there to ensure that the vehicle is safely returned to the rental company and if there is any damage, this is then deducted from the refunded amount. Usually, security deposits are ringfenced on your credit card, though some providers offer this for debit cards.
Security deposits vary massively. In some countries – such as Italy – they’re much higher than the average due to the number of accidents that occur there, with some as high as 2000 EUR. On the other hand, there’s Portugal, some are as low as 300 EUR or even zero. We always try to negotiate the security deposits as low as possible.
Search for ‘no security deposit’
The easiest, quickest, and cheapest way to hire without a security deposit is to use our nifty filter on the search results. Here you can click the ‘No Security Deposit’ button and you’ll only see results where the security deposit is nil.
Sometimes, these deals are slightly more expensive than those with a security deposit but at least you have peace of mind that you don’t have to put a 1000+ EUR hold on your credit card. With these deals, you’ll only be required to give card details. This is mainly for the rental company to keep on file just in case the worst happens, or for a fuel or toll transponder deposit.
Where we can offer no security deposit
*Correct as of 1st January 2025*
At Zest, we pride ourselves on offering as many hassle-free options as possible. If you’re looking to rent without a security deposit, search amongst the following providers!
Portugal:
- Centauro Plus
- Driving Madeira Rent A Car
- EPI
- Golfauto
- Luzcar
- Record Go Premium
- RentAuto
- Rentcar4less
Spain:
- Alquicoche
- Autos Aguirre
- Centauro Plus
- Drivalia Premium
- Espacar
- Record Go
- Topgear Mobility
Italy:
- Centauro Plus
- Locauto
Greece:
- Enterprise
United Kingdom:
- Arnold Clark
Australia:
- East Coast Car Rentals
Rent a car with Zest for your next getaway!
Take the stress out of car rental with Zest. We keep you protected during your rental with excess protection included with every booking. We also have an industry-leading Top-up insurance available as an added extra.
So, what are you waiting for? Put something in the calendar today and join thousands of other travellers using Zest with no security deposit!
