Ireland Travel Guide | Car Rental

Best way to explore Ireland is by car, hands down.
The pace of travel on your own accord and the convenience of keeping your luggage in the trunk is well worth it.

If you're from North America, it can be an intimidating task to drive on the opposite side of the road. But let me re-assure you though, after about a couple hours of being on the road you'll get the hang of it. 

Quick Tips:

1. Renting a manual transmission car is way cheaper than it is to rent an automatic car. Almost everyone in Ireland drives manual transmission cars, so having an automatic car is considered a luxury. It's reflected in the difference in price during rental.
   
2. Check if your credit card company covers car rental insurance in Ireland (Aka, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage).
   Make sure to obtain a personalized letter from your company specifically stating that YOU have coverage in Ireland, because rental companies will require it before they will allow a waiver for your rental.
   
3. If possible, try to pick up your rental away from the airport. It's generally cheaper because there is less demand versus at the airport. You can also plan it so that you drop off your rental at the airport terminal to catch your next flight. I've done this with Budget Car Rental in Dublin.
   
4. Make sure to check the car for any scratches and damages before you leave the lot. This is important because you are liable for all damages if you don't notify your rental agent of prior damages.
   
5. If given the option to return the car with or without fuel, ALWAYS choose returning the car with a full tank. It's cheaper for you to fuel up to full and return it, than it is to let them charge you about 90 Euros for returning it empty.