While exploring foreign countries, nothing makes getting to know a new place easier than getting to know its roads. While it would be nice to have your own vehicle for this kind of wanderlust, you can still rent a vehicle in most countries. Renting can even be cheaper overseas, which makes the prospect very attractive. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when renting a car abroad. In this guide, we’re going to look at five.
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1- Determine If You’ll Need an International Permit
Depending on where you are traveling, you may need an international driving permit (IDP) to rent a car. The permit must be issued within six months of your trip, but it can be used for an entire year if you plan to travel again. More than 150 countries require this document globally, so make sure to check if you need one before traveling.
2- Inspect the Vehicle with a Rental Agent
The rental agent is there to make getting a car easier, so go with them for a once-around before you commit. The agent won’t protest if it’s an on-the-level agency, and while you’re doing your inspection, use your phone to take a couple of pictures of the vehicle to establish if there’s any existing damage. This will protect you when you’re ready to return the rental.
3- Never Forget the Insurance
In many cases, your local insurance will be usable as you explore abroad, but it’s critical that you talk to your insurance company before you make any assumptions. Most importantly, you’ll just have to be sure that you have some form of insurance when you’re in this new country.
Most rental companies will allow you to opt-in to their own coverage, and this might be your best bet if your domestic coverage doesn’t extend outside of the U.S. You never know what kinds of situations may arise on the road, so protect yourself. You should even consider travel insurance to provide additional coverage.
4- Research the Different Styles of Cars Available for Rent
Cars that have manual transmissions are a lot more common in other countries. If you are not used to driving stick, then ensure that the rental location has automatics available. Also, car sizes in other countries can be smaller, so make sure your entire party and your luggage fit comfortably.
5- Learn the Local Rules of the Road
Before driving in a foreign country, it is important to learn about the local road regulations and signs that you will need to follow. For example, some countries drive on the left side of the road. Other countries do not allow right turns with a red signal. No parking signs in the United States look quite different in other countries, and the last thing you need is to get your rental car towed during your vacation.
Car rentals add an extra bit of freedom to your journey as you’re not limited by tour groups or public transportation schedules, but it’s still essential that you do your research beforehand. When you’re driving in a foreign territory, these five rules will help you have a safe and fun time as you get to know the people and locales of this new place.