Christmas – an occasion to celebrate with your family and loved ones. If you are traveling by air to another city or taking a road trip with your family, having your private car during the festive season will give you the experience that no bus or ride-hailing service would ever give you.
But here’s the truth most people discover a bit too late: holiday car rentals get expensive. From the week before Christmas until the New Year countdown ends, rates shoot up, availability drops, and travelers rush to grab whatever cars are left.
If you want to avoid paying high seasonal charges and still secure a comfortable, reliable ride, this guide breaks down everything you need to know — from smart booking strategies to what kind of cars work best for Christmas travel. Whether you’re browsing options through a platform or checking different companies, these insider tips will help you save big.
Why Christmas Is the Most Expensive Time for Car Rentals
- More Travelers, Fewer Cars
Christmas holidays bring international tourists, residents planning vacations, and families hosting out-of-town relatives. The number of people looking for car rentals suddenly spikes — and the supply doesn’t grow to match.
- Longer Bookings Reduce Availability
Unlike normal weekends, holiday rentals often stretch across 7–10 days. This reduces turnover and makes cars run out earlier than usual.
- Popular Cars Sell Out First
SUVs, luxury sedans, and family-size vehicles disappear quickly, causing the remaining ones to become more expensive.
- Fixed Travel Dates Increase Demand
Christmas gatherings, holiday events, family commitments — everyone has strict schedules. This lack of flexibility leads to higher prices.
Because of all this, planning early isn’t optional. It’s essential.
How to Find the Best Car Rentals for Christmas Travel
Let’s explore the factors that make one car rental option more suitable — and more affordable — than another.
- Book Early Enough to Beat the Price Surge
Car rental prices change fast during December. A car that costs AED 130 per day today may cost AED 200+ within a week. To avoid this:
- Book 2–3 weeks before Christmas
- Confirm before the mid-December rush
- Check rental platforms regularly for early deals
Companies update their fleet availability early, which helps you secure good options before demand peaks.
- Choose the Right Car Size for Your Trip
Not every car is ideal for every Christmas journey. Be practical:
- Choose large SUVs such as the Nissan Patrol or Toyota Land Cruiser if traveling with family and luggage.
- Want to drive in the city? A sedan such as the Corolla or Camry will be economical. Going to tourist places or long travels? Then you need comfort and mileage—mid-size SUVs would work best.
- If budget is a concern, then compact cars will be the best option for you.
- Compare Car Rentals Instead of Booking the First Available Option
One of the easiest ways to save money is to avoid impulse booking. When comparing companies, look at:
- Daily rates
- Mileage limits
- Insurance options
- Deposit amounts
- Add-on charges
- Customer reviews
Choosing an option with a lower initial price tag does not necessarily indicate that the total cost will be lesser. A transparent pricing strategy will prevent you from sudden expenses at the last minute.
- Skip Airport Pickups When Possible
Airport rental counters are convenient but not always economical. They often include:
- Airport tax
- Premium pickup fees
- Higher daily rates
Companies allow online bookings, so you can choose a city-based collection point easily.
- Extend Your Rental Period for Better Rates
Holiday rentals may be less if you book for a longer duration. Usually, making a reservation for 5–7 days results in a lower per-day charge than making a reservation for 2–3 days, particularly during the peak festive season.
Common Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Peak Holiday Surcharges
Some rental companies automatically increase rates during festive days.
- Extra Insurance Fees
Always check if insurance is included or charged separately. Verify what the coverage actually offers.
- Fuel Policies
“Return full tank” is the cheapest option. Prepaid fuel usually costs more.
- Late Return Fees
Holiday schedules get tight. Even a one-hour delay can lead to a penalty during peak season.
- Car Cleaning Charges
Certain companies charge for excessive interior dirt or sand — especially after beach trips. Reading your agreement helps prevent unwanted surprises.
Don’t Forget to Inspect the Car Before You Drive Off
Because cars are rented back-to-back during Christmas, make sure you:
- Inspect the interior
- Spare tire availability
- Verify fuel level
- Test headlights and indicators
Take pictures — it protects you from being charged for something you didn’t do. This protects you from being held responsible for previous damages.
Best Vehicle Types for Various Christmas Travel Plans
- For Family Reunions
Choose roomy SUVs like Prado, Patrol, or similar models. They’re ideal for large luggage and long trips.
- For Visiting Malls, Events, and City Attractions
Sedans such as Corolla or Camry are economical and easy to drive in traffic.
- For Winter Road Trips
Crossovers offer great ground clearance and comfort for long drives.
- For Budget Travelers
Compact cars give you the simplest and most cost-effective option.
How to Save the Maximum on Car Rentals During Christmas
Here’s a quick list of smart money-saving techniques:
- Book early — before mid-December
- Compare multiple rental companies
- Avoid airport pickup locations
- Choose compact cars if you’re on a budget
- Use weekly rental packages
- Skip unnecessary add-ons
- Return the car with a full tank
- Drop off the vehicle on time
Why Reliable Car Rental Companies Matter More During Holidays
Christmas is different — high bookings, tight schedules, and busy roads require dependable service. A trustworthy platform usually ensures:
- Vehicles are well maintained
- Availability is updated accurately
- Pricing remains transparent
- Customer support responds quickly
- Bookings don’t get cancelled last minute
Make Your Christmas Travel Smooth and Affordable
Traveling during Christmas is meant to be a happy experience, not one that adds up the expenses. If you choose a trusted car rental company and understand the key factors before booking, you can enjoy your holiday exactly the way you want — comfortably, safely, and without overspending.
Book your Christmas car rental early with Falcon Drive to secure the best rates and a wide range of vehicles.