As the scramble for cheap car hire gets underway, arguscarhire.com's brand manager Emma Coakley offers the following advice for those planning a winter break abroad or a drive home this Christmas.

1) The Early Bird Catches the Worm...

Don't wait until the last minute to book your car hire. During the busy Christmas period, the most popular car groups and destinations sell out fast and the rates for remaining vehicles quickly become expensive. Book your car hire as you'd book your flights-the best deals are always available to those who book early. 

2) Make a Week of It

If you're planning to spend more than a few days at your destination or your travel plans are flexible, then it might be a good idea to book a week's car rental, rather than just a few days. In most cases, it works out a lot cheaper.

4) Start Small, then Think Big

When pricing your rental, begin with the rental company's smallest car and then find out the rate for the next level car. More often than not, you can up-grade from a mini/economy-sized vehicle to a full-size car by paying just a little extra in the difference. If you're traveling with more than one other person, it's not much to pay for safety and comfort!

5) Pick Up at the Airport

If you're flying to a major city, collect you're rental car at the airport. This will save you time, money and the hassle of traveling to an off-site pick-up point. 

5) Say 'No' to One Way Rentals

Avoid one-way car hire. If possible, try to have the same pick-up and drop-off points, as choosing a different car hire drop off point will increase your costs considerably.

For great deals on family car hire have a look at the price comparisons here.