My Blog

Renting a car in Ireland for a week or two is no problem. Thanks to the Internet it can be done from the comfort of your home and within minutes. But actually getting the right car for your needs can be difficult. The very concept of "car" is radically different between North America and Europe. Whereas in the US and Canada size really matters, Europeans look for fuel economy and have cramped parking conditions in mind. Here are some hints on choosing the right car when renting.

Transmission
The very first thing to bear in mind is the transmission. Whereas most rental cars in North America will be equipped with automatic transmission, manual transmission is the norm in Europe. In addition the gearshift will be to the left of the driver. If you are not familiar with a manual transmission be sure to ask for an automatic. Be prepared for an extra charge at some rental agencies. And remember that the "exotic" automatic transmissions may sell out fast, so book early.

Fuel Costs
As said before, European drivers are obsessed with fuel efficiency. One look at the price of gas in Ireland, let alone in Northern Ireland, will explain this obsession to US visitors - expect to pay twice the price you are used to. But fuel efficiency of rental cars should normally be great, even for the larger vehicles. Which ultimately makes driving in Ireland not a hugely expensive way of travel.

Interior Space
Most rental cars on offer are standard European or Japanese vehicles, built for cramped road conditions and comparatively short journeys. Especially the lower categories ("Sub-Compact" and "Compact") are typical "city cars" for the occasional user. Even "Mid-Size" in Ireland would be rated "Compact" in the US. So expect tighter conditions and choose a larger vehicle if travelling long distances.

Seats and Legroom
Cars are smaller and Europeans are used to them. This combined leads to the ratings on rental car websites. An international supplier will offer the same size of vehicle with totally different suitability ratings. On the US website rated for two adults and two children, on the Irish website rated for five adults. If you are in any way larger than the average European (5 ft 7 in, 165 pounds) go for a larger vehicle. Some rental companies will tell you equivalent US vehicles to help you choose.

The Trunk
Luggage space in European and Japanese cars can be tight. "Sub-Compact" and "Compact" vehicles will more than likely be of the hatchback type with no actual trunk and a somewhat cramped storage area in the back. Getting four adults and their luggage into a "Sub-Compact" is nearly impossible. If you are planning to take your full baggage allowance go for a "Mid-Size" at least. Do not plan on leaving your luggage in view while touring, this will attract undesirable attention.

Extras
When looking up European rental cars you might notice that air conditioning or cruise control are not necessarily included in the specifications. You will not really miss them. While air conditioning can occasionally be nice during the short Irish summer, cruise control would be of no practical use at all.