Is there a better feeling than going on holidays by plane and knowing there is a car waiting for you at the airport? Forget about long and uncomfortable car rides…Within a few hours you’ll reach your destination where everything is arranged when it comes to the car. But, of course, you should be well organized beforehand. Where do I rent a car? Online back home or at the destination? What kind of documents do I need? And how old do I have to be to rent a car? These questions sure had come to your mind, that’s why we put together a number of tips on how to rent a car on vacation. If you consider them, you’ll be well prepared for the next adventure!
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Rent a car for your holidays: at home or at the destination?
Even though renting a car abroad could be cheaper, it’s smart to rent a car back home because the language barrier could hamper agreements. Moreover, local renters try to sell you additional insurance policies. First of all, it is important that you take your time to choose the rental company. Start by comparing different car rentals and pay close attention to the costs of the surcharges and insurance policies. It’s best to rent from a large, international and well-known car rental company. You can book the car in advance through some websites, in that way there’s enough time to read the terms and conditions carefully and in your own language. For example, you could use this website to compare different offers. Did you know that if you book a holiday home with Muchosol, you get a 15% discount on a car rental at Sixt? One more reason to book your apartment now! 😉
The required documents to rent a car abroad
To rent a car abroad various documents are required. Don’t forget your passport, a valid driving license, but also a credit card. Many companies ask for credit card details when renting a car. The credit card is used as a guarantee for the deposit, the deductible, traffic fines and any damage to the car. By giving this information you authorize the company to charge extra costs afterwards. It is often the only way to rent a car. You don’t want to expose your credit card details? Then you can rent a car via Easirent without a credit card.
Age limit for car rentals abroad
Even though you are in possession of a driving license, it is not always possible to rent a car abroad. In some countries you can only rent a car when you are 21 or older. Moreover, in the United States and Scotland you must be at least 25 years. Usually, there are additional surcharges for people under the age of 25, so pay attention to details like this when you rent a car! It could also be the case that even though you are already 25 but you have your driving license less than a year, it’s not possible to rent a car, because in some countries you need to be in possession of your driving license for at least 2 years. Finally, if you are over 70 years of age, you should also check if you are allowed to rent a car abroad. Sometimes they charge an extra payment because you fall into a ‘risk target group’.
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Think about the insurance policies
If you consider renting a car for your next trip don’t forget to take out an additional insurance, because mostly the usual travel insurance or car insurance does not cover the costs in the event of any damage abroad. There are three types of insurances:
- Thirdparty liability motor insurance
This insurance covers the damage you inflict on others and is obligatory, always and everywhere. This is often called LI (Liability Insurance) abroad.
- CDW (Collision Damage Waiver)
This insurance protects you against damages on your own rental car by your own fault.
- TP (Theft Protection Waiver)
This is a theft insurance. It is useful to check in advance whether there is a deductible for these insurances. It is sometimes recommendable to take out an additional insurance policy to avoid the deductible. Do you rent a car in advance in your country? Then usually all insurance policies are inclusive. Do not conclude anything at the destination!
Tips for the pick-up and return of the car
It’s important to check the condition of the vehicle during the pick-up and return. Record the damage and check if everything works well. Take pictures in case of damage and have it recorded on the rental contract. When you return the vehicle request a written proof that the car has been returned without any damage. Sometimes it’s required that you return the car with a full tank or even cleaned; pay attention to this!
Moreover, we recommend taking a close look at the schedule details. For example, if you arrive at 6.30 pm and you want to rent a car for two weeks, rent from 6.30 pm on day 1 to 6.30 pm on day 14. In this case, pay exactly 14 days. But, if you book from 6.30 pm on day 1 to 11.30 pm on day 14, the rental company charges a full day extra. Keep this in mind!
Choose your car according to the itinerary
It is also useful to match your car to your itinerary. When renting a car, always ask yourself the following questions: How many persons do I travel with? How many suitcases are there? What is the purpose of the trip? From A to B or a round trip? What am I going to do? Traveling through the mountains or mainly on motorways? Because during a trip through Southern Europe, you will certainly have to drive through the mountains several times. Always choose a car that is spacious enough instead of paying for an on-site upgrade. In addition, a cheap car is fine, but not always economical when you drive through the mountains for example. A stronger engine adapts better to more passengers and luggage.
Could we help you with these tips on how to rent a car on holidays? We hope that everything goes well and you will experience the holiday of a lifetime! Are you also curious about the 7 easy steps to organize a trip? Click here!