A return to normality in car rental prices? In 2023, the comparator Carigami found a global drop in prices of around 25%: a week’s rental costs an average of 336 euros, compared to 447 euros the previous year.
A significant drop after the significant increases observed in 2021 and 2022, in the context of the shortage of new vehicles, which especially penalized vehicle rental companies.
Portugal, the most affordable destination
In France, Carigami notes a 13% drop, from 443 euros per week on average in 2022) to 385 euros last year. This remains the most popular destination among comparison users, despite a 15% drop in booking volume.
In second position, Italy, with an increase in reserves of 30% and a drop in prices also of 30% (315 euros on average in 2023). Portugal completes the podium, with an increase in the number of rentals of 22% and the largest drop in rates of the panel, -33% to 210 euros per week. It is also the most affordable rate in the ranking, just ahead of Spain, 217 euros per week (-26% in 2023).
In ninth place, Scotland has the most expensive car rental in the top 10 per week, at €483.
Corsica attracts less
In France, Carigami notes that Corsica has been left out of the top 10 preferred destinations by its users.
“The problem is the skyrocketing prices of plane tickets and the cost of daily living on the island, especially affected by inflation,” explains the comparator.
Paris continues to be the most sought after destination, with an average of 385 euros per week, ahead of Nice (420 euros) and Lyon (399 euros).
Regarding car rental prices, it is in Ajaccio where we find the cheapest weekly rate in the ranking: 301 euros on average and -33% compared to 2022. Same trend in Bastia: 315 euros (- 29%). Despite a 9% price drop, it is in Bordeaux where we find the most expensive average price, 441 euros per week.
What trend in 2024?
In its report for the year, Carigami highlights that the rental of electric and hybrid cars represented only 1.5% of total reservations. But this trend should still accelerate, with a 20% rental fleet renewal with low-emission vehicles this year and at least 50% in 2030, Carigami predicts.
For the comparator, 2024 should also see a change in vacation habits after the episodes experienced last summer.
“The summer of 2023, affected by numerous fires and heat waves, shows us that perhaps it is time to better distribute holidays throughout the year. Favor spring or autumn for warmer destinations. This has many advantages in terms of massification, prices and new travel experiences”, indicates Pierre Feisthauer, head of development at Carigami, quoted in a press release.
Source: BFM TV
