Car Hire Tips Abroad

You would think hiring a car would be simple and you'd be provided with all the information you need when booking, but unfortunately, it's not the case. Scott and I have hired a car abroad twice so far, once in France and once in Italy (yes the drivers in Italy are as crazy as everyone says), and it took us a while to find all the information we needed to hire a car abroad, so hopefully my following tips will help you with your car hire planning.

1) Book Before You Travel

To find the best price, make sure to book your car hire before arriving at your destination. If you wait until you arrive, you risk paying sky-high prices or, worse, having no car available (this is especially likely during peak seasons). By searching for deals before your holiday, you can compare all your options and prices, ensuring you get the best possible deal. Comparison sites vary depending on the country you are travelling to, but here are a few that I’ve used previously: Skyscanner, Kayak, TravelSupermarket, Carrentals, and Enjoy Travel. If you find a good deal, check the company before you pay, and always read reviews from previous customers.

2) Book Well in Advance

If possible, book well in advance. Many car hire companies offer free cancellations, allowing you to cancel and re-book if you find a cheaper price before your holiday. This flexibility can save you a significant amount of money.

3) Size of the Car

If you’re not savvy about cars, always check the size you are booking. Booking sites usually make it easy with filters for sizes and indicate how many suitcases will fit. Consider the number of passengers and luggage to ensure a comfortable trip.

4) Don’t Forget About the Gearbox

If you’re travelling to a country that drives on the opposite side of the road than you’re used to, you might want to opt for an automatic. This can help you adjust to driving on the ‘wrong’ side of the road. The cost difference between manual and automatic cars varies by country. For instance, automatics were significantly more expensive in Italy, while in France, they were similarly priced to manuals.

5) Paying for the Deposit

Car rental companies typically take a deposit when you collect the car, and most now only accept deposits on a credit card. Debit cards are often not accepted, so always read the terms and conditions carefully. The credit card will most likely have to be in the driver's name, so check that as well.

6) Take Out Your Own Additional Insurance

Nearly all car hire options include only basic insurance. When you pick up your car, you will likely receive a hard sell from the employees to take out a higher level of insurance with them. However, you can take out your own additional insurance for a much better price. Companies like iCarHireInsurance or worldwideinsure.com offer policies that cover excess insurance.

7) Check for Hidden Costs

Additional costs can be hidden if you don’t thoroughly check the terms and conditions. Charges such as cleaning fees, additional driver fees, or surcharges for returning the car to a different location can add up. Always clarify these costs before finalising your booking.

8) Don’t Assume Car Hire is Your Only Option

Depending on your plans and the country you are travelling to, car hire might not be the best option. Some countries have excellent transport options, such as trams, trains, taxis, and buses, all of which could be cheaper than hiring a car. Of course, if you are touring a country and can only access your route via car, then it will be the best choice.

9) Understand Fuel Policies

Car rental companies have different fuel policies, such as full-to-full, where you return the car with a full tank, or full-to-empty, where you pay for a full tank upfront and return the car empty. The full-to-full policy is usually the most cost-effective. Make sure you understand the fuel policy to avoid additional charges.

10) Know the Local Driving Laws

Before you hit the road, familiarise yourself with the local driving laws of the country you are visiting. Speed limits, road signs, and regulations can vary significantly. For instance, in some countries, it is mandatory to carry certain items in your car, such as a warning triangle or reflective jacket. Knowing these rules can save you from fines and ensure a smoother driving experience.

11) Inspect the Car Thoroughly

When you pick up the car, inspect it thoroughly for any existing damage and make sure it’s noted on the rental agreement. Take photos or videos as evidence. This can prevent disputes about damage when you return the car.

12) Keep Emergency Contact Information

Ensure you have the car hire company’s emergency contact information and understand the procedures in case of an accident or breakdown. It’s also helpful to know the local emergency numbers.

13) Plan Your Routes

If you’re unfamiliar with the area, plan your routes in advance. GPS devices can be rented from the car hire company, or you can use your smartphone with an international data plan. Apps like Google Maps or Waze are invaluable for navigation.

14) Consider Child Seat Requirements

If you are travelling with children, check the car seat requirements of the country you’re visiting. Many car rental companies offer child seats, but you might prefer to bring your own to ensure safety and comfort.

By considering these tips, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective car hire experience abroad. Happy travels!