Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Malta and Gozo. From quiet villages and hidden beaches to historic towns like Mdina, having your own car gives you freedom that buses and taxis can’t. But if you’ve searched online, you’ve probably seen warnings about “car rental scams in Malta.”
The truth is that most rental companies in Malta are legitimate — but some use confusing terms, hidden fees, or high deposits that leave travelers feeling tricked. These aren’t outright scams, but they can still ruin your holiday if you’re not prepared.
Here’s what you need to know about the most common pitfalls, why tourists sometimes feel cheated, and how you can avoid bad surprises.
Why Do Tourists Think Car Hire in Malta Is a Scam?
Many tourists renting a car in Malta share the same frustrations:
- €750–€1,800 deposits blocked on credit cards that travelers didn’t expect.
- Aggressive insurance upsells that push the rental cost far above the original quote.
- “Delivery fees” and fuel charges that weren’t clear upfront.
- Parking fines and admin fees showing up weeks after the trip.
When travelers discover these extra costs, it feels like they’ve been scammed — even if the details were hidden in the fine print.
The reality is that this isn’t unique to Malta. Similar stories happen in Spain, Italy, and the UK. The problem isn’t the island itself — it’s choosing a rental provider without understanding all the terms.
The Most Common Car Hire Pitfalls in Malta
1. High Deposits on Credit Cards
Many rental companies in Malta block €750–€1,800 on the driver’s credit card as a security deposit. This isn’t usually charged, but it’s held for the length of your rental. For travelers on a budget, this can feel excessive and sometimes impossible to afford.
Some companies reduce the deposit to around €300–€500 if you buy full insurance, but this makes the rental far more expensive than expected.
2. Aggressive Insurance Upsells
By law, third-party liability is always included. Most rentals also include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), but with a high excess (the amount you pay if there’s damage).
At the counter, many travelers feel pressured into adding Super CDW or Full Damage Waiver — sometimes being told it’s the “only way” to avoid a huge deposit. While these add-ons do offer peace of mind, the way they’re sold often leaves customers feeling misled.
3. Hidden Fees and Extra Charges
Some of the most common complaints from tourists renting in Malta include:
- Fuel policies – “full-to-empty” means you pay for a tank of fuel upfront, often at inflated rates, and return it empty.
- Delivery or location fees – charged when cars are dropped off away from the airport, even when advertised as “free pickup.”
- Admin charges – added for processing traffic tickets, young drivers, or using a debit card instead of a credit card.
These extras can quickly turn a €120 rental into €250 or more, leaving travelers frustrated and feeling scammed.
4. Damage Disputes After Drop-Off
Another common frustration comes when renters are charged for scratches or dents they didn’t cause. Some companies are quick to point out tiny marks during return, and without proof, it’s your word against theirs.
How to avoid it: always take photos and videos of the car at pickup and drop-off, including wheels and windscreen. That way, you have evidence if there’s a disagreement.
5. Parking Fines and Traffic Tickets
Malta’s towns can be tricky for visitors unfamiliar with local rules. Valletta, for example, has Controlled Vehicle Access (CVA) zones where driving without a permit leads to automatic fines. Speed cameras and street parking rules also catch out many tourists.
Rental companies will pass on the fine but also add an admin fee for handling it. These can arrive weeks later, surprising travelers who thought their trip was over.
How to Avoid Car Hire Scams in Malta
The good news: almost all of these issues can be avoided with a bit of preparation. Here are some practical tips:
- Read the fine print before booking – check deposit amounts, insurance coverage, and fuel policy.
- Book with a trusted local broker or well-reviewed company – transparency matters more than chasing the cheapest headline price.
- Confirm insurance upfront – know what’s included (usually CDW) and what’s optional.
- Take photos and videos at pickup and drop-off.
- Check reviews online – avoid companies with repeated complaints about damage disputes or hidden charges.
- Ask about deposits – some providers reduce or remove them with certain insurance packages.
Is Renting a Car in Malta Still Worth It?
Absolutely — if you rent from the right place. Malta is small, but buses can be slow and taxis add up quickly if you’re moving around. Having a car gives you freedom to explore hidden beaches, countryside villages, and Gozo at your own pace.
Most of the bad stories you see online come from travelers who booked blindly or didn’t check the fine print. Renting from a trusted local broker removes that risk — terms are clear, deposits are fair, and support is available if something goes wrong.
Final Verdict – Car Hire Malta Without the Stress
Car hire in Malta isn’t a scam, but the industry has its share of bad practices that leave tourists feeling tricked. By knowing the common pitfalls — from high deposits to insurance upsells and hidden fees — you can avoid the stress and enjoy your trip.
For a smooth experience, always choose a provider that’s transparent and reliable. That way, you’ll enjoy the freedom of exploring Malta and Gozo without worrying about nasty surprises.
👉 Check available car hire options in Malta today and book with confidence, knowing you’ll get a fair deal and a car that suits your trip.
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