Smart Travel Tips for Renting a Car in August

August is peak season for rental cars: it’s the busiest time for families and airports are crowded, but it’s also the period when prices start to drop again in the last week. If you’re traveling with children or a larger group, that requires different choices than a vacation in June or July. In this article, you’ll learn what to keep in mind, which car class is appropriate, and how to avoid crowds at the airport.

On this page:

• What makes August peak season?

• Overview of August peak destinations + alternatives

• Vacationing with kids: 6 car rental tips

• Which car class is right for your family?

• Avoiding Crowds at Busy Airports in August

• 8 August peak destinations in detail

• Checklist: Family Vacation with a Rental Car in August

• 10 frequently asked questions about renting a car in August

What makes August peak season?

Three factors explain why August is so busy.

Crowds: All European schools are closed for summer vacation, causing airports to handle 2 to 3 times as many travelers as in May.

Price: Starting rates for rental cars are 30 to 40% higher than in May, but in the last week of August, prices drop again by 15 to 20% as schools reopen in various countries.

Weather: Generally, the weather is wonderful for sun worshippers, but in southern Spain, Italy, and Greece, temperatures can reach 35°C and higher. Therefore, it’s best to drive early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and avoid long drives during the hottest hours of the day.

Tip 1: Reserve a child seat well in advance

Book a child seat at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure, because in August, availability from rental companies is limited due to high demand. Add the car seat directly to your rental car reservation to ensure availability. Not sure? Then bring your own car seat; while it will take up space in the trunk, it offers peace of mind and saves you rental costs at your destination.

Tip 2: Choose the Right Car Class for Your Family

Match the car class to your family size: a compact car is sufficient for two people, a mid-size car is comfortable for four travelers, and for five or more people, a 7-passenger car is recommended. This way, you’ll avoid a trip with too little legroom and luggage space, which—especially on longer drives—makes the difference between a relaxing and a tiring vacation.

Tip 3: Plan regular stops

When traveling with children, plan a stop every two hours to use the restroom and stretch your legs. Find out in advance where attractions and restrooms are located along the route, so you don’t have to search for them at the last minute. Also, avoid long drives between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.: during those hot hours, the air conditioning is under heavy strain.

Tip 4: Extra space for active families

Are you traveling as an active family with beach bags, surf gear, hiking backpacks, or special sports equipment? If so, make sure to allow for extra trunk space. For families of more than four people with a lot of gear, a mid-size car is often still too cramped; in that case, opt for an SUV. This way, you’ll avoid overloading the trunk and backseat, and everyone will still have plenty of room to be comfortable.

Tip 5: Expect a Higher Security Deposit

During the busy month of August, the security deposit for rental cars is typically 15 to 20% higher than in the off-season, and for family cars, it can range from €1,000 to €3,000. As the primary driver, be sure to check whether your credit card’s credit limit is sufficient. Without a sufficient limit, you won’t be able to pick up the rental car, so this is a crucial check to make before departure.

Tip 6: Avoid Crowds at Amusement Parks

Child-friendly attractions and theme parks are especially crowded in August. Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when it’s less busy. Also, book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the ticket office. This not only saves time but also ensures a more enjoyable visit without stressed-out kids waiting in line.

Which car class is right for your family?

• 2 people (couple): A Mini or Compact class car (such as a Fiat 500 or VW Polo) is sufficient. You’ll have enough trunk space for a two-week summer vacation, and these cars are nice and maneuverable in the city or in parking lots.

• 3–4 people (family with 1–2 children): The mid-size class (such as a Renault Mégane or VW Golf) is usually the logical choice. These cars offer a good balance between comfort, space, and maneuverability when parking.

• 5 people (family with 3 children): A mid-size SUV (such as a Peugeot 3008 or Hyundai Tucson) is ideal for this, with enough space for three child seats or boosters plus luggage.

• 6–7 people (extended family / 2 families): Opt for a 7-passenger car (such as a VW Sharan or Renault Espace) or a minivan. Keep in mind that starting rates are 30 to 50% higher and availability is more limited during peak season. Therefore, book at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance. An alternative is to rent two mid-size cars.

An automatic transmission is recommended for a family vacation: less shifting during long drives and less tiring if a second driver doesn’t have much driving experience. Note: In August, automatics are the first to sell out due to high demand, so book them well in advance.

Avoiding Crowds at Busy Airports in August

August means crowds at most airports. These five tips will help you navigate them more smoothly.

Tip 1: Have Your Documents Ready in Advance

Make sure your driver’s license, the credit card in the primary driver’s name, your voucher, and your child seat reservation are within easy reach. This is especially important when traveling with children—you don’t want to be rummaging for them at the counter with a crying toddler clinging to your leg.

Tip 2: Plan to arrive outside of peak hours

Ideally, arrive early in the morning (before 11:00 a.m.) or late in the evening (after 9:00 p.m.). With children, arriving early is usually the better choice, as fatigue later in the day can lead to extra restlessness.

Tip 3: Consider an off-airport pickup

At busy airports like Palma, Faro, or Heraklion, an off-airport pickup location can be 20 to 30% cheaper, and the counter is often less crowded. Just be sure to allow an extra 15 to 25 minutes to get there by shuttle bus.

Tip 4: Check the counter’s hours of operation

Check whether the counter is open 24/7 or has limited hours. If you’re traveling on an evening or night flight with children, you don’t want to arrive to find the counter closed.

Tip 5: Allow extra time

In August, allow 30 to 45 minutes for the check-in counter and car handover, compared to 15 to 20 minutes during the off-season. Plan subsequent appointments, such as hotel check-in or a ferry to an island, with this buffer in mind.

August 8—Peak Season Countries in Detail

Cyprus (peak July–September)

Cyprus combines culture and the sea: ancient ruins, Byzantine monasteries, and picturesque mountain villages alternate with turquoise bays such as Nissi Beach and the Blue Lagoon. Please note: in Cyprus, they drive on the left, which takes some getting used to for most Dutch tourists. Summers there are warm and dry, ideal for combining a beach vacation with cultural exploration. Rent a car to explore both the coast and the historic inland areas, such as Nicosia and the Troodos Mountains.

Reserve a rental car in Cyprus.

Poland (peak season: August)

Poland is ideal for city trips combined with a road trip through the countryside. Kraków is the most popular destination, with its medieval market square and the nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine. From Kraków, you can plan a beautiful route to the Tatra Mountains or Auschwitz-Birkenau. Warsaw and Wrocław are also worth visiting. August is a popular month to travel, thanks to the warm weather and the lively, summery atmosphere in the cities.

Compare rental cars in Poland.

Germany (peak: August)

Germany is a popular destination for both transit and vacations, especially the countryside and the Black Forest with its dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages. Many German cities have environmental zones (Umweltzone) where an environmental sticker (Umweltplakette) is required. Virtually all rental cars in Germany come with such a sticker, but be sure to check this when you pick up your rental car. August is the busiest travel month, with crowded campgrounds and highways heading south. It’s ideal for a road trip through southern Bavaria or Baden-Württemberg.

Book a rental car in Germany.

Australia (peak: August)

Australia is the perfect destination for a classic road trip: the vast distances between destinations require careful planning of driving times and fuel stops. They drive on the left, which takes some getting used to for most visitors. August is the dry season in the south, offering pleasant travel weather for routes along the Great Ocean Road or through the outback. Expect long days behind the wheel and book accommodations well in advance, especially in remote areas.

View available rental cars in Australia.

Spain (peak season: July–August)

Spain’s peak season is in July and August, with Mallorca, Ibiza, and Tenerife as the top destinations. Mallorca combines bustling coastal towns with the tranquil Serra de Tramuntana; Ibiza offers not only nightlife but also secluded coves; and Tenerife surprises visitors with its volcanic landscape around Mount Teide. Due to the peak crowds, it’s advisable to book well in advance and reserve rental cars early, especially near airports during peak season. Planning to drive a rental car in Spain? Be sure to familiarize yourself with Spanish traffic rules.

Compare rental cars in Spain.

Italy (high season: July–August)

Italy attracts visitors year-round, but Sicily and Sardinia see their highest numbers during the summer months. Sicily combines historical sites like Taormina and Mount Etna with miles of coastline, while Sardinia is known for its crystal-clear sea and rugged interior. Both islands are ideal for a road trip, with attractions spread out across the islands that are best reached by rental car. Read our 12 tips for a road trip starting from Olbia or Alghero (Sardinia) or our tips for road trips in Sicily.

Find the perfect rental car in Italy.

Greece (peak season: July–August)

Greece is a classic summer destination, with Crete and Rhodes attracting the most visitors in July and August. Crete offers a mix of villages, gorges like the Samaria Gorge, and long beaches, while Rhodes combines impressive medieval architecture with crystal-clear waters. Both islands are large enough for a multi-day road trip: read about exploring beautiful Crete with a rental car or check out 21 tips for trips on Rhodes. Due to the crowds and heat during peak season, it’s a good idea to book early and plan excursions outside of peak hours.

Reserve your rental car in Greece.

Portugal (high season: July–August)

Portugal remains a popular destination, with Madeira standing out as a top summer destination in July and August. The island is known for its levada hiking trails, lush nature, and spectacular coastal roads, offering a green alternative to the classic beach vacation. The climate there is mild and pleasant, even in the summer. Renting a car is recommended to explore the mountainous interior and hidden viewpoints that are difficult to reach by public transportation.

Rent a car in Portugal.

Checklist: Family Vacation with a Rental Car in August

Before you leave for your vacation destination where you’ve rented a car, it’s important to go over a checklist so you have everything you need and don’t run into any surprises. To make it easy for you, we’ve put together a list of 12 items.

1. Driver’s licenses: Bring the original driver’s licenses for both the primary driver and any additional drivers (such as your partner); do not bring copies.

2. Primary driver’s credit card: Make sure you have a credit card in the primary driver’s name with a sufficient credit limit to cover the increased security deposit during peak season (€1,000–3,000 for family cars).

3. Reservation confirmations: Print the rental car voucher and the confirmation of the child seat reservation, or save them digitally.

4. Travel documents: Passports for all family members and health insurance cards, as the back of these cards contains the so-called EHIC (European Health Insurance Card).

5. International driver’s license: required if the destination country mandates it. As an EU resident, you do not need one for EU countries. Outside the EU, an international driver’s license is required or strongly recommended in many countries to avoid issues with car rentals or police checks. Check this in advance for each country.

6. Child seat: Bring your own seat or reserve one when you book through EasyTerra. During peak season, rental companies often sell out weeks in advance.

7. Cancellation policy: With EasyTerra, cancellation is free of charge up to 48 hours before departure. If you book within that timeframe, please note that cancellation is no longer free of charge.

8. Pickup details: Check that the pickup location and time are listed correctly on your voucher.

9. Download apps in advance: navigation (Google Maps works offline without a data plan), parking apps, and, if necessary, apps for paying tolls in your destination country.

10. Damage inspection: When picking up the rental car, take photos of the vehicle from all sides and a photo of the fuel gauge. The timestamp serves as proof in the event of a damage claim.

11. Extras for the road: Bring extra water bottles, sunscreen, and toys or entertainment for trips longer than 2 hours.

12. Avoid the hottest part of the day: Don’t plan long drives between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM. The air conditioning will be working overtime, and children are more likely to get restless.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Car in August

1. When is August the peak season for rental cars?

August is considered the peak month in most European countries, especially during the first three weeks. As soon as school starts again, the crowds noticeably thin out. Cyprus, Poland, Germany, and Australia have their peak season specifically in August, while the Spanish, Italian, and Greek islands experience peak crowds as early as July. If you book during the last week of August, prices are typically 15 to 20% lower.

2. How much more expensive is August compared to May for a rental car?

Expect starting rates that are 30 to 40% higher than in May, and on Spanish and Greek islands, even up to 50% or more. If you wait until the last week of August, just before the school year starts, prices drop again by 15 to 20%. You can find a complete overview by country in our price table. It’s best to book 4 to 6 weeks in advance to avoid the highest rates.

3. Which car class is best for a family of four?

For a family of four, the mid-size class (think models like the Renault Mégane or VW Golf) is usually the best choice. Mid-size cars offer a good balance between comfort, space for luggage and child seats, and maneuverability on narrow city streets or mountain roads.

4. Should I bring my own child seat or reserve one?

In August, child seats at rental companies are often sold out 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Therefore, reserve a child seat directly when you book through EasyTerra, or bring your own seat in your suitcase as an alternative. Want to know more about the different options and rules regarding child seats? Then read our comprehensive guide on renting a car with a child or infant seat.

5. How can I avoid lines at the rental car counter in August?

Plan your arrival outside of peak hours—before 11:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.—and have your documents ready in advance. At busy airports like Palma, Faro, or Heraklion, consider a pickup location just outside the airport: this is often 20 to 30% cheaper and significantly less crowded. Also check the counter’s hours of operation, as the difference between 24/7 service and limited hours is especially important when traveling with children.

6. Are 7-passenger cars still available in August?

Availability is limited, as 7-passenger cars are popular during peak season with large families and groups of friends traveling together. Therefore, book 6 to 8 weeks in advance, as last-minute availability is scarce. Expect a starting rate that’s 30 to 50% higher than for a compact car. An alternative is renting two mid-size cars, which often works out cheaper and offers more flexibility.

7. Do I need a credit card to pick up the rental car?

Yes, for all rental cars booked through EasyTerra, a credit card in the name of the primary driver is required. The security deposit will be held on this card; typically between €700 and €2,500, but during peak season for family cars, it’s 15 to 20% higher—that is, from €1,000 to €3,000. Please note: debit cards or prepaid cards are not accepted, so be sure to check this well in advance to avoid any surprises at the counter.

8. Can I cancel my August rental car for free?

Yes, with EasyTerra you can easily cancel free of charge up to 48 hours before the start of the rental period, without any special filters, surcharges, or flex rates. This also applies to bookings in August. Keep in mind, however, that free cancellation is no longer possible if you book within 48 hours of the start date, so be sure to check this deadline carefully when making your reservation.

9. What if I don’t finalize my travel plans for August until July?

Booking late for August often means limited availability in popular car classes and starting rates that are 30 to 40% higher. Still, it’s possible—especially if you’re flexible about the car class: smaller classes are usually available sooner. Want to know more about the best strategy? Read our practical tips for last-minute bookings during peak season.

10. Which destination is quiet in August for a family?

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, consider Slovenia (Bled and the Soča Valley), Scotland (the Highlands and Edinburgh), Estonia (Tallinn and Lahemaa National Park), or northern Sweden and Lapland. These destinations offer pleasant weather in August with significantly fewer crowds than Southern Europe. If you’re traveling with children, choose a destination with shorter driving distances—ideally no more than 3 to 4 hours of driving per day.