Faro Airport Car Hire

What to know when booking your car hire at Faro Airport

Exploring Faro and the Algarve on 4 wheels is a joy. Here’s what to know when booking your car hire at Faro Airport:

• Local driving regulations: Familiarise yourself with local traffic and driving laws. For example, UK drivers must be prepared to drive on the right side of the road.
• Documentation: Ensure you have all valid documents and that they are all up to date. Have your driving licence, passport, booking confirmation, and proof of insurance on hand.
• Be prepared to pay a deposit: You will be required to put a holding deposit on a credit card. Ensure you have enough money on the chosen credit card. The amount is typically between £300 and £1500.
• Know the car hire agency: Be sure to research the car hire agency’s opening hours and location.

Why Choose Car Hire at Faro Airport?

Your Algarve adventure begins upon picking up your car hire from Faro Airport. Explore the region on your own time, leaving bus timetables and train schedules behind. Faro Airport has a wide range of car hire suppliers and car types to suit various budgets, preferences, passenger numbers, and requirements. It’s your best bet for finding the perfect vehicle to suit your needs.

How to Save Money on Car Hire at Faro Airport: Expert Tips

With over 15 years of experience delivering affordable car hire, we know a thing or two about how to keep costs low. Save your cash for your trip by following our expert money-saving tips:

• Book in advance: Secure your car hire at least one month in advance for the best prices. Consider booking 6 weeks in advance if you’re travelling during the peak summer season.
• Shop around: Compare a variety of car hire agencies to find the best deal for you. Rates vary depending on the car hire supplier, so be sure to shop around.
• Choose economy cars: Opt for economy vehicles that are more affordable and cheaper to run, i.e. petrol-efficient. Volkswagen Up and Peugeot 108 are great economy cars available to hire from Faro Airport.
• Minimise additional charges: Keep costs low by sticking to one driver. Adding an additional driver can be an unnecessary fee. Be aware of other extra fees, including a SatNav or child seat.
• Compare rental periods: If you can be flexible with your rental period, compare your chosen timeframe with a day or two later. You might find prices to be lower.
• Compare reviews: Choose trusted providers with positive reviews.
• Pre-book excess coverage: If you are opting for excess coverage, be sure to select this when you book to avoid paying extra when you pick up your hire car.

How to Navigate the Car Hire Pick-Up and Drop-Off Process at Faro Airport

The car hire pick-up and drop-off process at Faro Airport is hassle-free and seamless, helping you start your holiday without a hitch. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating the car hire process:

The Pick-Up Process:

1. Arrival: When you land at Faro Airport, make your way to the car hire desks. Major car hire firms have desks in the arrivals hall, while the smaller local companies are just outside the terminal, in the P4 car park. You will receive instructions on the pick-up location in your confirmation email.
2. Signing the rental agreement: Present your valid driving licence, passport, and booking confirmation at the car hire desk. The car hire employee will talk you through the rental agreement. This is a good chance to ask any questions regarding insurance, tolls, etc.
3. Payment and deposit: The car hire employee will usually ask for a deposit, as well as the remaining balance for the vehicle. Make sure that you have enough money on your credit card to cover the deposit and the remaining balance.
4. Check the vehicle: Inspect the vehicle before getting on the road. Take close-up pictures of any pre-existing damage to waive liability, and take general pictures of the vehicle even if you can’t see any damage. There might be underlying damage that exacerbates through wear and tear, and having pre-taken images will protect you from damage claims.

The Drop-Off Process:

1. Fill up the tank: Find a petrol station close to the airport and fill up the tank to the level that you picked it up with. Most car hire agencies will provide you with a full tank of fuel, but make a note of the fuel levels when picking up your car.
2. Find the return zone: Be sure to arrive at the return zone at least 15 minutes before you’re due to drop off your vehicle. Follow the signage to your designated drop-off area. This will be detailed in your confirmation email and by the agency representative when picking up the car.
3. Vehicle inspection: Ensure that you have not left any belongings in the vehicle. An agency representative will check the car for signs of damage.
4. End the rental period: An employee will go through the relevant documentation, and ask you to sign an agreement that the rental period has ended. The deposit will be returned to your credit card, or adjusted based on the condition of the vehicle.

How to Drive from Faro Airport to Faro

The drive from Faro Airport to Faro city centre is a quick 15-minute journey. Follow the signs to exit the airport and head towards Faro on the N125-10. The motorway is well-signposted and in good condition.

Who are the top car hire suppliers at Faro Airport?

There is a wide range of car hire suppliers at Faro Airport, including international and local brands. Alamo, Europcar, and Enterprise are a few of the most well-known international car hire suppliers at Faro Airport, while Luz Ocean Drive and Tangerine are excellent local options.

What type of cars are available for hire at Faro Airport?

Choose from a variety of car types at Faro Airport. Families may opt for a spacious and reliable Nissan Qashqai, while those with a penchant for luxury prefer a Mercedes C-class. Compact vehicles, such as a SEAT Ibiza, are ideal for couples exploring the region. The Algarve roads are smooth and in good condition, so compact and economy vehicles are just as reliable as robust SUVs.