What extra charges should I watch out for when renting a car in Mallorca?

Renting a car on the island often comes with additional charges beyond the base rate, so it's important to read the rental terms carefully. Insurance is typically offered as an optional daily add-on, with several tiers including basic collision damage waiver and more comprehensive coverage. If you have travel insurance or a credit card that covers car rentals, you might not need to buy the rental company's insurance, but always verify this beforehand.

Drivers under 25 usually face a young driver surcharge, adding to the daily cost, a common policy among rental firms in Palma and other towns like Alcudia or Soller. Fuel policies vary, but most local companies operate a full-to-full system, requiring you to return the car with the same amount of petrol as at pickup; refueling fees at service stations can be quite steep if you don’t manage this.

Some rentals include mileage caps, particularly if you’re venturing beyond the usual tourist routes such as the Ma-10 coast road or the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Exceeding these limits leads to extra charges. Also, renting directly at Palma airport often includes airport concession fees and local taxes, which can make your contract pricier than downtown outlets. Knowing these potential extras helps keep your budget on track and avoids surprises when dropping off the vehicle.