Traveling somewhere? Depending on where you go and how long you’re there, you might need a car. If you’re considering renting a car, there are essential details you should grasp beforehand.
First, should I take my car on a long road trip?
If road trips are your thing, there’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in your own vehicle. However, before starting your journey, ensure that your car is up to the task of handling the long drive ahead. Here’s a checklist of factors to consider, according to Sullivan Tire and Auto Service:
- Tires: Check for damage, tire pressure and the tread.
- Lights: Test each set of lights to make sure they work.
- Air filters: If there is too much dust or debris, replace them.
- Fluid levels: Check the oil, radiator, brake, power steering, coolant, transmission and windshield washer fluid.
- Windshield wiper blades: Make sure when you use the windshield wiper fluid, the blades do not leave any streaks. Also check for damage on the blades.
- Air conditioning and heater: See if both work properly.
- Brakes: Check to see if there is a vibration, grinding sounds or if something feels off during a test drive.
- Roadside emergency kit: Get a kit for your car that includes first-aid supplies, water, a flashlight, nonperishable snacks, chargers, flares, tool kits, warming tools (like a blanket) and anything else you believe would be helpful if there are problems on the road.
Renting a car in the U.S.
Renting a car is a great option when your personal car cannot handle the journey or you are arriving somewhere by plane.
Requirements to know before renting a car
There is usually a minimum age requirement of 25 years old, unless you select a certain company that allows a younger driver with additional fees. Documents such as a driver’s license, active payment methods like a credit card and a driving record may also be required. Furthermore, the rental rates are subject to fluctuation based on the type, class and size of the vehicle. If wanted, you can get car insurance coverage, per Money Geek.
Tips during and after the car rental
A World to Travel recommends picking up and dropping off the car at the same time to avoid extra fees. At both points, but especially during pickup, you should also check the car to see if there is any damage so you are not charged for the repair. Finally, see if you can purchase an electronic toll system to avoid the fines for paying tolls.
Skyscanner also suggests staying on paved roads and filling up the tank before you return the car to avoid damage and extra fees.
Renting a car abroad
The Washington Post shares beneficial information about acquainting yourself with local policies and protocols of a country before your trip. Here are its tips below:
See if you need an international driver’s license
If you plan to drive in certain countries like Australia, Austria, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Italy, Japan, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain and Thailand with your U.S. driver’s license, you’ll need an international driving permit along with your regular license. Although some countries may not always enforce this requirement, it’s still advisable to have one to ensure compliance with local laws. An international driving permit, which is slightly larger than a passport, serves as a translation of your U.S. license into 10 languages, making it easier for authorities to understand your driving credentials.
Obtaining an international driving permit is relatively straightforward. It costs $20 and is valid for one year. You can acquire it from any local AAA office in the United States, as AAA is the only entity authorized by the State Department to issue international driving permits. Remember to apply for a permit in the same country that issued your regular driver’s license to ensure legal compliance while driving abroad.
You might still see your favorite rental brand
International car rental options include well-known brands like Alamo, Avis, Hertz, National and Sixt, among others, which operate globally. Reserving a vehicle can be done through the company’s U.S. website or via rental aggregators such as Autoeurope.com for rate comparisons.
It’s important to note that overseas branches of U.S. rental companies may operate independently and may not always meet the service standards expected from a U.S.-based operation.
Review age requirements
Car rental agencies establish minimum and maximum age criteria for renting vehicles, which can vary by country and company. These requirements are typically outlined on the rental agency’s website. Renters under 25 may face a young driver surcharge in many countries. While some countries like France and Germany permit rentals to 18-year-olds, the minimum age for most rentals is 21.
On the other hand, Hertz imposes age restrictions in Northern Ireland, prohibiting rentals to individuals over 79 years old. Those aged 75 to 79 must provide a doctor’s letter confirming their good health and a letter from their insurance company demonstrating a clean driving record for the past five years.
Save money by choosing a stick shift
In numerous European countries, manual transmission cars remain widely used. Opting for a manual transmission vehicle can lead to significant savings, as renting an automatic transmission car often incurs an additional cost of 30% or more.
Review your credit card’s rental insurance
Many U.S.-issued credit cards offer coverage for damage to your international rental car in case of an accident, provided you charge the entire rental fee to the card. Some issuers may require that the same card be used for reservation to validate the insurance. Unlike in the United States, where your personal vehicle insurance covers the costs and rental insurance covers the deductible, the collision coverage from your credit card is primary. However, if the accident is your fault, you will still be responsible for damages to other vehicles involved.
It’s important to note that standard rental insurance, depending on the card, might have restrictions.
Learn local driving laws and regulations
Before embarking on your trip, acquaint yourself with the driving and parking laws of each country you’ll be visiting, including the significance of various road signs and markings. Just because you observe vehicles parked with their wheels on the sidewalk, a common sight in narrow European streets, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s legal.
Strict enforcement of seatbelt laws is prevalent, often resulting in fines for each occupant not wearing one. Additionally, many European cities restrict driving in central or historic areas to residents or low-emission vehicles only. Violating these limited-traffic zones can lead to substantial fines and additional fees from your rental company. Keep an eye out for signs and gates indicating restricted areas, commonly marked as “ZTL” in Italy.
Furthermore, remember that driving on the left side of the road is common in various countries besides Britain, such as Japan, Australia and New Zealand.
Understand fuel types
Using the wrong fuel type can lead to significant and expensive engine damage. Fuel pumps are color-coded to denote their contents, but these colors differ by country and region. Look for fuel requirement details on a sticker inside the filler door.
For instance, in the United States, black signifies gasoline, whereas green indicates diesel. Conversely, in countries like Iceland and other parts of Europe, green denotes gasoline, while black is for diesel.
Wherever your journey takes you, prioritize safety and maintain focus on the road ahead.