When you rent a car, you want to be able to drive without any worries. However, it's not always clear which insurance is included as standard and which you might need to take out additionally.
It's important to know what insurance you need for your hire car, so you can set off on the road well-prepared. Good insurance can take away a lot of worries.
What is usually included with a hire car?
With virtually all car rental companies in the Netherlands, basic insurance is included. This usually consists of third-party liability insurance, which covers damage you cause to others with the rental car, such as another car or a cyclist.
With the right insurance, you can enjoy your holiday without worrying about potential costs from damage to the hire car.
Which supplementary insurance policies are sensible?
What additional insurance you need depends on your situation and the risks you want to cover.
It's always wise to consider what insurance you need, so you can avoid unexpected costs.
Occupant Insurance
With passenger accident insurance, you are covered for personal injury and damage to personal belongings of yourself and your passengers. This is a valuable addition, especially on longer journeys or holidays.
All-risk cover
With comprehensive insurance, you are also covered for damage to the rental car itself, even if you cause the damage accidentally. This reduces your financial risk and prevents high costs for things like parking damage, scratches, or a collision.
An all-risk insurance policy is a smart choice for those who don't want to worry about damage to their rental car during their trip.
Reducing or buying out the excess
With many rental companies, you can reduce or fully waive your excess. This is useful if you don't want any unexpected costs.
Roadside assistance insurance
Some landlords offer breakdown assistance as standard, while with others it's an optional extra.
What does your own insurance or credit card sometimes already cover?
In some cases, you already have additional cover through your travel insurance, your credit card, or your own car insurance. The conditions vary widely, so it's wise to check this beforehand. This way, you avoid taking out double insurance and paying unnecessarily more.
What happens without supplementary insurance?
When you opt out of additional insurance and the rental car is damaged, you often pay a large portion of the costs within the excess.
Good insurance can help you avoid unnecessary costs and give you peace of mind during your trip.
Good insurance can help you avoid unnecessary costs and give you peace of mind during your trip.
How to choose the right insurance?
When choosing, especially consider where you'll be driving, how long you'll be hiring the car for, and how much financial risk you're willing to take. In busy cities, on narrow roads, or during longer holidays, extra cover is often a sensible choice. At Adrem, we are happy to help you determine which cover suits your situation, so you never pay more than necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Is a rental car always insured?
Yes, every rental car always has at least third-party liability cover. Additional insurance varies by rental company.
What is the excess on a rental car?
The excess is the amount you have to pay yourself when damage occurs. You can often reduce or buy it out.
Is my hire car insured against theft?
Yes, most of the time. Theft usually falls under limited cascode coverage, but always check the landlord's terms and conditions.
What insurance do I really need with a hire car?
At least third-party liability insurance is mandatory. In addition, passenger accident insurance or comprehensive cover would be advisable if you do not want to risk high costs.
Are personal belongings in the car insured?
Only with passenger accident insurance or additional cover. Personal belongings are not insured as standard.
