Last updated: 29 July 2026
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Localrent.com | Economybookings.com |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 60 destinations with live inventory — local agencies, low deposits | 150+ countries, 20,000+ pickup locations worldwide |
| Best For | Budget-conscious travelers who want the lowest prices from trusted local agencies | Travelers who want to compare the widest range of options in one search |
The Core Difference
This comparison comes down to a fundamental trade-off: Localrent focuses on local independent agencies with rock-bottom pricing, while Economybookings casts the widest net with 800+ suppliers including both major brands and locals. Choosing between them depends on where you're going and what matters more — the absolute lowest price or the widest selection.
Pricing Comparison
We searched both platforms for a week-long compact car rental across five popular destinations. The results were telling:
| Route | Localrent | Economybookings | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malaga AGP, July | €98 | €135 | Localrent −27% |
| Faro FAO, September | €82 | €110 | Localrent −25% |
| London LHR, June | €195 | €165 | Economy −15% |
| Miami MIA, March | Not available | €180 | Economy (only option) |
| Antalya AYT, August | €75 | €120 | Localrent −37% |
The pattern is clear: Localrent dominates in Mediterranean markets where local agencies thrive, while Economybookings wins in markets where Localrent has limited inventory (US, UK, Northern Europe).
Booking Experience
The two platforms handle bookings very differently. Localrent shows you the exact car (not just a category) and payment happens at the rental desk — you see the vehicle and confirm terms before money changes hands. Economybookings requires online payment at booking, which locks in your rate but means you're committed before seeing the car.
For cancellation flexibility, Economybookings has a slight edge — many bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, and this is clearly labeled during search. Localrent also offers free cancellation on most bookings, but the policy can vary by local provider.
Insurance Handling
This is where the two platforms diverge most. Localrent's local agencies frequently include comprehensive insurance in the advertised price — what you see is genuinely all-inclusive, with no counter upsell. Economybookings listings typically show a base price with basic CDW, and you'll encounter insurance upgrade offers during checkout and potentially at the counter depending on the supplier.
Economybookings does offer its own third-party full coverage for €5–8/day during checkout, which can be cheaper than the supplier's counter product. But the Localrent experience of "price shown = price paid" is simpler and less stressful.
Where Each Platform Excels
Choose Localrent when: You're renting in Spain, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Croatia, or Southeast Asia. You want the lowest possible price from local operators. You prefer paying at the desk after inspecting the car. You want truly all-inclusive pricing without counter surprises.
Choose Economybookings when: You need options in the US, UK, Germany, or other markets where Localrent has gaps. You want to compare major brands (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) alongside locals. You need a one-way rental across a wide network. You prefer locking in a rate with online payment.
The Smart Strategy
For Mediterranean destinations, search Localrent first — local operators there routinely undercut broker rates. Then cross-check Economybookings for a wider view, especially if Localrent shows limited vehicle options. For destinations outside Southern Europe, start with Economybookings as your primary search and treat Localrent as a supplementary check.