Helsinki Airport car rental: credit card deposit hold (what actually happens)

What a “deposit hold” actually is

At Helsinki Airport, the “deposit” is typically a temporary authorization on your card, not a charge. It reduces your available limit until it’s released after the rental closes. The confusing part: you can pay online and still get a hold at pickup.

Why you still get a hold even if you paid online

• Liability still exists: damage, late return, fuel, tolls, admin fees.
• Insurance level matters: higher coverage often reduces the hold amount.
• Operator policy: airport desks are strict and follow standardized rules.

How much can the hold be?

It varies by car class, excess, and operator. The only reliable way is checking the operator policy at booking and confirming card rules before arrival. If you’re tight on available credit, plan for the hold to be material, not symbolic.

What goes wrong at pickup

• Card is not in the main driver’s name.
• Debit card used where credit card is required.
• Not enough available limit.
• Confusing third-party insurance with the desk’s deposit policy.

Practical checklist

1. Bring a credit card in the driver’s name.
2. Keep enough available limit for the hold.
3. Know your excess and excluded damage categories.
4. Have the operator policy screenshoted/printed.

Want the full “don’t get surprised at the counter” list? Use our booking checklist.