Rent a Car · Guide
If you return a rental car late you may be charged for the extra time, so if your plans change, contact the business as early as possible to extend the hire — extensions are usually easy to arrange when the car is available, and agreeing them in advance avoids penalty charges.


Rental agreements set a return date and time, and bringing the car back after it can trigger extra charges — often an additional day or an hourly rate, depending on the business and how late you are. A short grace period may apply, but you should not assume one.
Because the terms vary, check the late-return section of your agreement before you sign so you know what a delay would cost. If a fine or a hold on your deposit is involved, it is far better to understand it up front than to discover it at return.
If you realise you need the car longer, get in touch as early as you can. Extending in advance is usually straightforward when the vehicle is free, and it is almost always cheaper and simpler than returning late and being charged after the fact.
When you extend, confirm the new return date, the additional cost and whether the deposit or any mileage allowance changes. For longer extensions, ask whether a weekly or monthly rate would work out better than adding day by day.
Good to know

You may be charged for the extra time — often an added day or an hourly rate — and the terms vary by business. Check your agreement, and contact the business early if you think you will be late.
Usually yes, if the car is available. Contact the business as early as possible to agree the new return date and cost — extending in advance is easier and cheaper than returning late.
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