Rental prices increase in Ireland ahead of holidays

Avoiding steep rental price increases associated with the peak holiday season is one of the best reasons to arrange all car rentals as soon as possible, especially for visitors to Ireland. According to a survey quoted by Ireland’s Independent, a daily newspaper, some major rental companies are preparing to temporarily double prices as the traditionally busy holiday period approaches. The most significant increases are expected at Budget, where a compact vehicle which normally costs around €209 during much of the year will be priced at €705 for the holidays. The highest prices are expected to be for rentals that fall between December 22, 2007 and January 5, 2008. This represents an increase of over 230%, when compared to the regular rental rates. Yet hikes are not scheduled in all cities and countries. For example, while renting a vehicle in Ireland during Christmas will cost much more than at any other time, Budget rentals in Paris will stay approximately the same as in the preceding period.

Budget is not the only company to raise rates for the peak season. Argus, for example, will be asking for €590 for a car hire, rather than the customary €218 rate in effect during the first two weeks of December. Customers in Belfast, can expect to see their car rental fees increase anywhere from 22% to 53% during the holidays, but the exact amount depends on the specific firm in question, as there are noticeable differences in corporate business practices during the holidays.

Of all countries and regions, it appears as though rental prices in the Republic of Ireland are set to increase by the highest margins. Budget, for its part, noted that

Although it aims to offer some of the most competitive prices in the market, it must raise its rates for the week between Christmas and New Year, because business tends to be very slow both before and after this period.

www.budget.com