When traveling to Europe, many tourists prefer to rent their car. This option allows you to move around more freely and is more flexible than the usual routes provided by travel agencies.
Renting a car allows you to explore the country you are visiting more thoroughly and in-depth. It is not dependent on distance and time, plus you can save a lot on transfers. Just weigh up the pros and cons.
It is important to be aware of certain nuances when renting a vehicle abroad. The registration process for local traffic laws is important.
Documents Required and Basic Knowledge
You will need the following to rent a vehicle abroad:
- Car license.
- The Traffic Police can issue you an international driver’s permit without any tests or exams. Some car rental companies will not rent cars to those without IDP. It will also help in the event of an accident.
- From 21 years, one year of driving experience is required.
- Passport and visa (if necessary).
- A deposit is typically a credit or cash card.
- Knowing the traffic laws of your country.
- Knowledge of the characteristics and the roads, highways, and primers.
- You should check if gas stations are located along your planned route.
The Nuances to Be Considered
- In most cases, insurance is included in the rental price. Ask about extra insurance options if necessary to ensure a safe trip.
- Study the conditions of the insurance and select the best method for you. Check all scratches, chips, and other damage on the machine’s condition form. You could be charged a hefty sum for your carelessness when you return the vehicle.
- You will receive the car with a full gas tank. You should return the vehicle with a full gas tank.
- When renting a vehicle, you’ll specify the class and not the brand. Don’t be surprised if the car you want is not available.
- You will need to pay a deposit when renting a property. This will be frozen in your account. Make sure that you have enough funds in your account.
- If you apply for a luxury car rental in Milan, a single credit card might not be sufficient. You may be required to provide two cards as a security deposit.
How to rent a car in Europe
Three main methods exist for renting a vehicle. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Renting through travel agencies
Easiest way. If they do, ask the manager. In general, agencies are in partnerships with multiple rental operators. You will have to pay a lot more for this service.
Booking agencies
Many agencies are involved in car rental. Many agencies rent cars, from large international agencies to smaller agencies in a specific country or city. They all offer online bookings.
You will be required to pay an amount and print a voucher in order to make a booking. This voucher will then need to be presented when you pick up the vehicle. Self-booking can be more cost-effective.
Consider the following when choosing an agency:
- If there are any branches of the Agency, knowing where they are can be very helpful in case you encounter unforeseen circumstances.
- Find out about the terms of rental, the routes, and the intersections between different countries.
- Be interested in the vehicle’s condition. In general, bigger agencies have better maintained and newer cars. The rental price may be affected by this.
- Take the contact information of the Agency and the manager who sold you the vehicle.
Online Booking Services
Online services are available for renting cars. These services are monitored at the same time by several dozen agencies, so you have a wide range of options to choose from.
Some of these services can be cheaper than the Agency itself.
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Book on the Spot
You can still find a car if you have not used the methods above. It is easy to do.
At airports and railway stations, you will usually find special stands or banners where you can rent cars.
You will be forced to accept the results of this method, which will cost much more. This question is important to consider in advance.
