How Can UK Tourists Avoid a One Hundred and Twenty Pound Cleaning Fee Mistake in Greece? Expert Advice on Car Rentals and Cost-Saving Tips – Travel And Tour World

Sunday, March 16, 2025
A car rental expert in Greece has cautioned UK tourists to be mindful of the potential for extra charges that may arise during their European Union holidays. Harry Anapliotis, the CEO of Rental Center Crete, shared that travelers might face cleaning fees ranging from £40 to £120 for deep cleaning services. According to him, one of the most common causes of these charges is sand, which tends to infiltrate the car, sometimes making it difficult to remove completely. When sand finds its way into mechanical components, it requires professional cleaning services, which can increase the cost to over £60.
The Impact of Cleaning Fees on Travelers
Anapliotis explained that a major investment in this scenario could be a portable vacuum, as it could potentially save travelers from incurring the £80 cleaning fee typically charged by rental agencies. In fact, he emphasized that having a vacuum during the trip could be the most cost-effective solution, as it helps keep the car free from debris and sand, avoiding any additional cleaning charges. Most rental companies don’t expect the car to be returned in pristine condition but rather in a state of normal use. However, even with that expectation, simple steps like using a vacuum can prevent additional fees that may otherwise spoil the enjoyment of a holiday.
Tips for Preventing Unforeseen Charges

It was highlighted that while deep cleaning charges are common, they are also easily avoidable by exercising a little care and attention during the holiday. Travelers were encouraged to maintain the car’s cleanliness throughout their rental period, even if it’s just avoiding sand from spreading inside. The message was clear: taking a few extra precautions before returning the car could save significant money and ensure that the holiday is not marred by unexpected costs.
Renting a Car: Cost-Effective Strategies
A significant portion of the advice shared with travelers focused on the importance of being strategic when renting cars. Money Saving Expert has suggested that comparison websites can be a useful tool in finding the cheapest car hire available. It was further recommended that booking in advance could save travelers hundreds of pounds. However, in a twist that defies conventional wisdom, there were cases highlighted where last-minute bookings for car rentals in certain destinations, such as Malaga in Spain, turned out to be far cheaper than those made months in advance.
Examples of Price Fluctuations in Car Rentals
A particular example stood out: a traveler who had booked a car rental four months ahead for a 10-day trip for just £296. Yet, when they checked the price just before departure, the cost had skyrocketed to £900. This significant price jump underscored the unpredictability of car rental prices and the potential for significant savings when travelers book early.
Alternatives to Car Rentals
Despite the potential savings through early booking, the advice offered also called into question whether travelers even need to rent a car at all. Rental cars, especially in major cities and tourist destinations, can quickly become an expensive and often unused burden. Therefore, tourists were encouraged to consider alternatives such as using taxis or taking advantage of public transport. A taxi price-comparison tool, known as RideGuru, can help travelers estimate the cost of taxi journeys, which might provide a more affordable option. Additionally, the CityMapper app, which is available in 71 European countries, can help travelers navigate public transportation, offering an easy and cost-effective alternative to renting a car.
The Benefits of Driving Your Own Car
For those who feel the need to have their own mode of transportation, the option to drive one’s own car was also considered. A Driving in Europe guide was suggested, which contains helpful tips and advice for those planning to drive across Europe in their own vehicles. This option not only saves on rental costs but could also provide more flexibility for travelers looking to explore on their own schedule.
Impact on the Travel Industry
In summary, the information shared has significant implications for the travel industry, particularly for car rental companies in popular European destinations. The warning about unexpected deep cleaning fees could influence how tourists approach renting cars, encouraging them to be more cautious with cleanliness or even reconsidering the need for a car rental altogether. Additionally, the fluctuating pricing trends in car rentals, such as those seen in Malaga, could shape how travelers plan their bookings. By considering alternatives like public transport or taxis, tourists may choose more cost-effective options, potentially leading to a shift in how car rental companies structure their pricing and services.