Student Guide: Budget Car Hire Tips You Should Know

Living with student status is often means to live on a budget but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice convenience or mobility. Whether you’re an international student abroad or commuting within your own city, budget-friendly car hire can offer flexibility without breaking the bank.  

Why Students Might Need to Hire a Car

Here are some common scenarios where students find car hire useful:

• Moving between dorms or apartments

• Going on road trips during breaks

• Attending off-campus classes or internships

• Exploring new cities affordably with friends

• Needing temporary transport while their own car is being repaired

Look for Student Discounts

Many car hire companies offer special rates for students especially if you're affiliated with a university. Check with:

• Your school’s student union or international office

• University partnerships with rental providers

• International student programs like ISIC (International Student Identity Card)

Some companies also give discounts if you're under 25 and still in school so don’t be afraid to ask.

Understand What’s Included in the Price

That low daily rate may not include essential costs like:

• Insurance

• Fuel charges

• Extra mileage fees

• Toll (Salik) costs in places like Dubai

Don’t Skip Insurance—But Know Your Options

As a student you might be tempted to skip insurance to save money—but that can be a costly mistake. However, you don’t have to take the most expensive option.

Smart tips:

• Check if your credit card or travel insurance offers rental car coverage

• Consider third-party insurance providers (they’re often cheaper)

• Choose basic collision damage waiver (CDW) if you drive carefully and want to lower upfront costs

Hire by the Week or Month if You Can

Longer rentals usually come with lower daily rates. If you need a car for more than a few days, opt for weekly or monthly car hire plans which often include:

Even if you only need the car for 5 days then check the weekly rate. It could be cheaper than daily pricing.

Age Restrictions & Extra Fees

Most car rental companies have a minimum age limit of 21 or 23. If you're under 25 you may face a young driver surcharge.

Always check the company’s age policy before booking.

Best Times to Book a Budget Car Hire

• Book 2–3 weeks in advance for the best rates

• Avoid holidays and weekends if possible—weekday car rentals are often cheaper

• Look for last-minute deals only if your dates are flexible

Some companies offer early bird discounts for students who rent a car in advance, especially for summer holidays or semester breaks.

International Student? Know the Driving Rules Before Car Hire

Consider these points are essential when you're studying abroad and planning to hire a car:

• Driving license requirements: Many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP)

• Local driving laws: Speed limits, road signs and traffic rules may differ significantly

• Insurance policies: Some countries require minimum liability coverage

Sharing the Rental Car with Friends? Know the Rules

If you're planning a road trip or sharing the cost with fellow students, you may want to add multiple drivers to the rental agreement.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Most companies charge extra for each additional driver

• All drivers must meet age and license requirements

• Not disclosing other drivers can void the insurance policy

To save money, choose one or two primary drivers and rotate your time behind the wheel if necessary (legally, only listed drivers can drive the car).

Final Thought

Hiring a car as a student doesn’t have to drain your budget. With the right planning and a little research, you can enjoy the freedom of driving without the long-term costs of car ownership.

Stick to compact cars, compare offers and always check for student discounts. With these smart tips, you’ll be ready to hit the road—without breaking the bank.