Why walk when you can roll? While that can be the title for a tell-all exposé by a hard-partying rockstar, the underlying message also applies to travelling. While it’s always a good idea to be in the moment and stop and smell the roses, when it comes to experiencing a travel destination, getting behind the wheel allows you to see more in less time. Not only does hiring a car on holiday give you the comfort of not being bound by the availability of rides and transport, it also gives you a sense of security and flexibility, not to mention, your feet some much-needed rest.
When it comes to travel, there's no shortage of ways to get around. Public transport, taxis, and tours all have their place, but few options are as flexible or comfortable as a holiday car hire. Below, we'll explore the benefits of renting a car, discuss how to do it, and show how you can even use the British Airways loyalty programme to earn or spend Avios along the way.
Why Hire a Car on Holiday?
It Gives you More freedom
So, you’ve booked your BA reward flights, but by hiring a car with a company such as Orbit Car Hire too you get a sense of freedom with a holiday car hire that public transport, no matter how good it is, doesn't come close to. Hiring a car means your holiday schedule is entirely your own. There's no need to rush to catch the last bus, follow a rigid group tour, or lug bags onto crowded trains. Instead, you decide when and where to go, whether that involves making an impromptu detour to a hidden beach or lingering a little longer at a scenic overlook. This flexibility can transform a good trip into a great one by letting you adapt your plans on the fly. So if the weather changes or you stumble on a local festival, you can join in without worrying about timetables.
The Comfort Adds to the Joy of Travelling
Carrying heavy luggage through busy stations can be exhausting, especially if you're unfamiliar with the language or local transport system. With your own rental vehicle, you simply pop your bags in the boot and drive off. This level of convenience is especially handy if you're travelling with family or have multiple destinations on your itinerary. Plus, if you're exploring scenic routes, you'll appreciate the air-conditioned comfort (or heated seats, if the climate calls for it) and the chance to stop anytime you see something interesting.
You Get to Save Time, Sometimes Even Money
Although public transport in large cities can be cost-effective, a holiday car hire with companies such as Orbit can often work out cheaper if you plan to travel beyond the city limits or visit multiple locations. Instead of buying separate train or bus tickets for every leg of your journey, you'll have just one rental cost. This can be especially true for longer trips crossing different regions or countries. Hiring a car also saves time: no waiting around at bus stops or train stations, so you can squeeze more sightseeing into each day.
You Can Upgrade Your Overall Holiday Experience
When you rent a car, you get to choose the ride that suits your trip. Heading for a romantic getaway with a partner? Choose a stylish convertible. Taking the kids on holiday? Pick an SUV or people carrier to handle luggage and extra passengers. For those who love the act of driving itself, consider a route known for panoramic roads; then the journey becomes as memorable as the destination. And if you feel like indulging in a luxury model, you can elevate the whole trip without the huge costs of owning one year-round.
How to Book a Car on Holiday
Not everyone books their rental vehicle in the same way, and it pays to know your options. Here are four main ways to secure your wheels:
Hire Locally on Arrival
You can rent a car at your destination at the airport desk or through your hotel's concierge. While this is convenient if you're unsure about your plans, you often pay higher rates for on-the-spot bookings.
Pre-Book Online
Many travellers prefer to lock in prices well ahead of time by searching comparison sites such as Orbit Car Hire before they fly. This way, you could take advantage of discounts or special offers while making sure your preferred car type is available.
Book as Part of a British Airways Holiday Package
If you're arranging flights and accommodation through BA Holidays, you can add car hire (through Avis or Budget) for a bundled rate. Doing so saves you money while letting you earn 1 Avios per £1 you spend on the holiday package — on top of the Avios from hotels, tours, and the car hire itself.
Book via BA.com Shopping Portal
If you don't need a full holiday package, you can still earn extra Avios by arranging your car through the British Airways shopping portal. Avis offers 5 Avios per £1, while Budget offers 2 Avios per £1, all of which can boost your British Airways loyalty programme balance.
(Bonus) Paying with Avios
It's also possible to book car hire using Avios directly through certain partners. However, this is generally not the best solution if you're wondering how to spend Avios efficiently. You often only get 0.5p to 0.6p value per Avios point, which is lower than the 1p per point that you should aim for. If you do go down this route, try to find deals where you can get as close to 1p per Avios as possible.
Some Common Concerns About Hiring a Car
No travel choice is perfect, and hiring a car can come with its own caveats. You may have to learn driving rules in a new country, possibly deal with traffic or toll roads, and budget for fuel. Insurance policies and terms can also be confusing; always check your coverage options (excess, collision waivers, etc.) before committing. Yet, most travellers find that these hurdles are easily managed with a little research and are generally outweighed by the advantages of having your own transport.
Final Thoughts
Having a car on holiday often brings priceless memories and the kind of spontaneity that public transport just can't match. So, if you're planning a getaway and wondering how to spend Avios, renting a car might be your ideal choice. You'll gain the liberty to explore on your terms, enjoy a hassle-free travel experience, and potentially save money in the process. Give your feet and your patience a well-deserved break by hitting the road in your holiday rental.
