So shop around. Budget for high taxes and airport surcharges. If there is a percentage-based airport service charge, consider picking up your car downtown. The surcharge could addanywhere from 6 to 13 percent. Budget for insurance.
Some countries mandate certain types of coverage.
Keep in mind that American Express no longer provides collision-damage insurance in Ireland and Italy. And such protection may not absolve you of all liability for the car. Try creative negotiating. Prices quoted by U.S. reservationists are not written in stone. If companies are desperate to rent, branch offices may make exceptions by granting discounts off the official rate or waiving extra charges.