Car Hire Collection: Make Sure You Have the Right Credit Card
A recent Guardian consumer story highlights a problem that can turn a straightforward car hire collection into an expensive and frustrating experience: arriving without the payment card the rental company requires.
Even if you've already paid for the rental, the company may still require a qualifying card to cover the security deposit.
Four things to check before travelling
- Credit or debit? Some rental companies insist on a credit card and won't accept a debit card.
- Whose name? The card generally needs to be in the lead driver's name.
- Available credit? Make sure there's sufficient available credit to cover the security deposit.
- Physical card? Don't assume that a digital wallet or payment over the telephone will be accepted. Bring the actual card.
These requirements can vary between rental companies and locations, so check the terms of your particular booking before leaving home.
Car hire excess insurance can help protect you against eligible excess charges, but it doesn't replace the rental company's deposit or payment-card requirements.
A few minutes checking the details could save considerable inconvenience at the collection desk.
About SimplyExcess
SimplyExcess specialises exclusively in car hire excess insurance, helping thousands of travellers protect themselves against unexpected excess charges when renting a vehicle in the UK and abroad.
Our commitment to providing straightforward, high-quality cover has been recognised through a number of independent awards and accolades, including:
- Which? Best Buy – European Annual Car Hire Excess Insurance
- Best Car Hire Excess Insurance Company 2025 – SME News
- New Insurance Provider of the Year 2026 – Prestige Awards
- Car Rental Insurance Provider of the Year 2026 – BFSI Insider
If you are comparing providers or looking for independent excess insurance before you rent, you can explore our policies below.