However the smaller local car hire companies tend to be less expensive. You may be approached at airports by representatives of local companies, most of whom are reputable (but check their credentials). If you're a visitor, it's advisable to reserve a car hire vehicle before arriving particularly during peak periods.

More visitors rent cars in Spain than any other European country and a hefty percentage of these are in Andalucía. When booking in advance remember to specify if you require an automatic.

Car hire in Spain is the cheapest in Europe, mainly due to the cut throat competition. The rates of major international companies vary little, although you may get a better deal by booking in advance.

One of the advantages of hiring with a large international or national company is that you can rent a car in one town and drop it off in another, although you should check the cost of this service.

Although cheaper, most smaller car hire companies require you to return the car to the office you got it from or the local airport. When comparing rates, check that prices are fully inclusive of insurance and taxes and that there are no hidden costs. Policy payment for petrol varies - check the small print. Most issue cars with a full/half/empty tank and ask you to return the car the same. Others charge for a full tank and do not credit you when the car is not returned empty. Some companies don't offer unlimited kilometres which will work out more costly unless you plan to just do a few kilometres which is difficult in a region as vast as Andalucia. If required, check in advance that you're permitted to take the car out of Spain, such as to nearby Portugal or Morocco. This is usually prohibited.

To rent a car in Spain you must produce a valid license (a copy is not acceptable). If more than one person will be driving, all the drivers' names must be included on the car hire rental agreement. Check in advance about insurance cover for young drivers under 26 or 22. Credit Cards are commonly used as a deposit. If a credit card isn't used, there's usually a high cash deposit and possibly the whole rental period must be paid in advance.