The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be a challenging season for tourists planning to rent cars in Spain. A perfect storm of factors, including a surge in tourism, supply chain disruptions, and the recent devastating flooding in Valencia that destroyed over 120,000 vehicles, has significantly strained the availability of rental cars across the country. This article explores the reasons behind the shortage and offers compelling arguments for booking your rental car as soon as possible to avoid being stranded without a vehicle during your holiday.
The Perfect Storm: Why Rental Cars Are Scarce
1. Flooding in Valencia: A Devastating Blow
In late 2024, Valencia experienced unprecedented flooding, one of the worst natural disasters to hit the region in decades. Torrential rains and overflowing rivers submerged vast areas, destroying homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Among the significant casualties were over 120,000 cars, many of which were rental vehicles stored in Valencia’s logistical hubs.
This catastrophic loss created a ripple effect throughout Spain, as rental car companies scrambled to redistribute their fleets to cover shortages in other regions. Even months later, the impact continues to be felt, particularly with Valencia being a major transportation and rental hub for the country.
2. Post-Pandemic Tourism Boom
Spain has seen a resurgence in tourism as global travel restrictions have eased. Popular destinations like Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and the Costa del Sol are once again bustling with visitors. This increased demand has further strained the already limited rental car supply.
The Costa Blanca, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands have been particularly affected, as tourists flock to these sunny destinations. The demand for rental cars in these regions often outpaces supply, making it essential to secure a vehicle well in advance.
3. Supply Chain Disruptions
The global automotive industry continues to face supply chain challenges, including semiconductor shortages and production delays. These issues have slowed the replacement of damaged vehicles and the expansion of rental car fleets in Spain. As a result, rental companies are operating with fewer vehicles than they would typically have during peak seasons.
Blanca Cars Warns of Rental Car Shortage and Price Hikes This Summer
Blanca Cars, a well-known local car rental company on the Costa Blanca, is urging travelers to act quickly when it comes to securing their rental vehicles this summer. “We’re anticipating significantly lower availability and higher prices due to increased demand and current supply challenges,” a representative explained. “Our best advice to customers is to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment and ensure you have a car ready for your holiday. Waiting until the last minute might leave you without options.”
Why You Should Book Your Rental Car Now
Given the current circumstances, delaying your rental car booking could leave you without transportation for your holiday. Here are key reasons why you should act immediately:
1. Limited Availability
With fewer rental cars available nationwide, waiting until the last minute could mean there are no cars left to rent. Booking now ensures you secure a vehicle suited to your needs, whether you require a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for family travel.
2. Higher Prices Closer to Summer
As demand for rental cars increases closer to summer, so do prices. By reserving your car early, you can lock in a better rate and avoid the inevitable price hikes during peak season.
3. Peace of Mind
Nothing ruins a holiday faster than logistical stress. Knowing that your rental car is secured allows you to focus on planning the fun aspects of your trip, from choosing destinations to booking accommodations.
4. Avoiding the Last-Minute Rush
The rental car shortage is already causing delays and complications for travelers arriving in Spain. By booking in advance, you can bypass the long queues and limited options at rental desks during the summer rush.
Lessons from the Past: How Recent Rental Car Shortages Highlight the Need to Book Early
In recent years, Spain has faced significant challenges in the car rental market, particularly during peak holiday seasons. The combination of a post-pandemic travel surge and supply chain disruptions led to widespread shortages, leaving many travelers scrambling to find available vehicles. In some cases, tourists were forced to rely on public transport or costly alternatives due to the lack of rental cars. Prices also soared during these periods, with many travelers paying double or even triple the usual rates. This recurring issue has highlighted the importance of planning ahead and securing a rental car well in advance, especially during the busy summer months. These past experiences serve as a clear warning for holidaymakers in 2025, making early bookings more critical than ever.