If you’re travelling to Malaga then I highly recommend hiring a car when you arrive! There’s so much to see and do in this gorgeous area of Spain and it’s so much more fun to do it with the freedom of your own car. You’ll see so much more (especially if you’re short on time!) and discover hidden gems and beautiful spots off the beaten track.
I’d advise hiring your car from Malaga Airport when you arrive for ease, convenience and often the best price. From here you can drop your bags at your hotel and then set off to explore the beautiful Costa del Sol region and its surroundings.
Malaga Airport is one of the busiest airports in Spain and serves as a gateway to popular tourist destinations such as Marbella, Torremolinos, and Fuengirola. Here are some convenient and affordable reasons to rent a car Malaga Airport and some tips to do so:
Ease and convenience
Don’t get an expensive taxi or painfully slow transfer to your hotel and then hire a car once you get there. Get your car from the airport to save time and money. It also means you can enjoy your final day because you can drop your car back off at the airport just a couple of hours before your flight home.
Book online
You’ll always find the best deals if you book online.
To secure the best deals and ensure availability, it’s a good idea to book your car rental online in advance of your trip. Many car rental companies offer discounts and special promotions for online reservations. Additionally, booking in advance allows you to compare prices and choose the vehicle that fits your budget and requirements. You’re more likely to get the car you need if you book in advance.
Airport Pick-Up
Malaga Airport has car rental counters conveniently located in the arrivals hall of Terminal 2. This makes it easy to pick up your rental car right after your flight lands. However, it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues.
Travel Hack Tip: I highly recommend getting off the plane, through security and baggage claim as quickly as possible to get your car from the pick-up station. If there are a few people on your plane using the same car hire company then you could end up with a long, slow queue. If you’re travelling with another adult, I recommend one adult rushes off the plane ASAP and gets to the car hire desk while the other takes their time and gets the baggage (especially if you’re travelling with children!)
Vehicle Insurance
When renting a car, it’s important to consider insurance options. Car rental companies often offer insurance packages that cover collision damage, theft, and liability. You can also check if your credit card offers rental car insurance as an added benefit.
I recommend paying a little extra for the full insurance package as you’d be kicking yourself if anything happened to your car!
Fuel Policy
Pay attention to the fuel policy of the rental company. Some companies provide a full tank of fuel and require you to return the car with a full tank, while others may charge for fuel based on the level at return. Be sure to understand and follow the fuel policy to avoid additional charges.
Additional Drivers
If multiple people in your group plan to drive, inquire about the cost and requirements for adding additional drivers to the rental agreement. Some companies charge an extra fee for each additional driver.
Navigation
Consider renting a GPS navigation system or using a navigation app on your smartphone to help you navigate the roads in the Costa del Sol area. The road signage in Spain is generally good, but having a GPS can be very helpful.
I usually use Google Maps but this can mean paying extra for my mobile phone tariff to be able to use my data abroad. Double check if there will be any fees for using your data abroad and consider adding a temporary bolt-on to your package to avoid unnecessarily high roaming fees.
Travel Hack Tip: If you plan to use your phone, it might be worth packing a phone holder that sticks to the windscreen to make it easier to use while driving. This is the one I use at home and I take it with me whenever I’m driving abroad.
Parking
Be aware of parking regulations and fees in the area you plan to visit. Many cities along the Costa del Sol have designated parking areas, and some may require payment for parking. It can be a little confusing if you don’t speak Spanish so it helps to have Google Translate on your phone!
Return Process
Ensure that you understand the return process for your rental car. Most rental companies have drop-off areas near the airport terminals, and they may provide instructions on where to leave the keys and vehicle. You may also need to leave the vehicle full of fuel so you’ll have to refuel on your way to the airport.
If you’d like more tips about car hire abroad, check out my hassle-free guide to hiring a car on holiday.
Car hire at Malaga Airport provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the stunning coastal and inland areas of southern Spain at your own pace. By planning ahead and considering these tips, you can find a convenient and affordable rental car option for your trip.