In December, many people looking to rent a car run into the same problem. A few days before the holidays, almost no cars are left, and the remaining ones cost more.
If you are coming to Lithuania for Christmas to see family or planning a holiday trip, it pays to book a car in advance. In this article, you will find out when it is best to book, how much car rental costs in December and what you will need when picking up the car.
Why rental cars are in short supply at Christmas
December, along with the summer months, is one of the busiest car rental seasons in Lithuania. Before Christmas and New Year, many Lithuanians living abroad come home, and many of them need a car to visit relatives and friends.
At the same time, rental companies run smaller fleets in winter than in summer. Demand rises while the number of cars does not, so the most popular options go first: economy cars, cars with automatic transmission and minivans for families.
Those who leave it to the last minute are often left with more expensive car classes or inconvenient pick-up locations and times.
When is the best time to book
The short answer: as early as possible, ideally in November or early December. The closer to the holidays, the smaller the choice and the higher the prices.
Booking early costs nothing and carries no risk. Booking with AutoRentalis.lt is free, no prepayment is required, and you can change or cancel your booking free of charge up to 72 hours before pick-up. You can do this in the "My Reservations" section.
If you do not know your exact flight time yet, book for your expected dates and adjust them later. With time on your side, you can calmly compare suppliers' terms: the deposit amount, accepted cards and the permitted driving area.
How much does car rental cost in December
Prices in December are higher than in quieter months, as they depend on the balance between demand and available cars. Guide prices when booking in advance:
| Class | Examples | Price from, € per day |
| Economy | Peugeot 208, Škoda Fabia, Hyundai i20 | 13,82 € |
| Compact | Peugeot 308, Volkswagen Golf | 18,74 € |
| Intermediate | Toyota Corolla, Škoda Octavia | 22.08 € |
| Standard | Škoda Superb, Volkswagen Passat | 26,11 € |
The final price depends on the rental period, transmission type and chosen insurance. VAT and administrative fees are already included. Additional services, such as night-time pick-up, extra insurance or travel abroad, are charged according to the supplier's terms.
You will see exact prices for your dates in the car rental search.
What you will need at pick-up
When booking, your contact details are enough. When you arrive at the rental desk, have with you:
- a valid driving licence;
- an identity document (passport or ID card);
- a bank card in the renter's name: the deposit will be blocked on it;
- the booking number you received by email.
Digital copies of documents are usually not accepted, so bring the originals.
Many suppliers also accept debit cards for the deposit, but prepaid cards are usually not accepted. Before your trip, make sure your card has enough funds for the deposit: during the holidays, when spending is high, this is easy to overlook.
If your driving licence was issued outside the European Union, check the supplier's terms for your chosen car before booking. You will find all general requirements in the booking terms and conditions.
Airport car rental when arriving from abroad
Many people coming home for the holidays pick up their car straight at the airport. You can book a car at Vilnius, Kaunas and Palanga airports, with pick-up and return available 24/7.
Enter your flight number in the booking form so the supplier knows when you will arrive. Some suppliers charge an extra fee for late-evening or night-time pick-up, for example €25 between 22:00 and 08:00. You will find the exact terms next to each car.
If you have found a cheaper flight to Riga, you can pick up a car at Riga Airport and return it in one of Lithuania's cities. A one-way fee applies for returning the car to a different location, and you will see it when choosing a car.
If you arrive by train or bus, you can pick up a car at Vilnius, Kaunas or Klaipėda stations. For an extra fee, the car can also be delivered to an address of your choice within the city.
Book your holiday car now
During Christmas week, fewer cars are available every day, while booking costs nothing and can be cancelled free of charge. Choose your dates and pick-up location in the search and compare suppliers' offers in Vilnius, Kaunas or Klaipėda.
If you have any questions, call +370 661 66610. We answer 24/7.
