Renting a Car Abroad: Important Tips for Various Countries

Road trips do not only grant you the freedom to explore. They also allow you to enjoy the drive through diverse landscapes.

To get the best experience though, consider renting a car for your road trips. If you’re in the UAE, for example, you may easily rent a car in Abu Shagara. With a good rental company, renting a car for your road trips allows for the maximum immersion into your journey. What’s more, unlike rigid itineraries, road trips offer spontaneity and allow you to stop anywhere you like and create lifetime memories.

How do I prepare for a Car Rental Abroad?

When gearing up for a road trip abroad, the one thing you will want to get absolutely right is your preparation. With proper preparation, you can rest assured of a smooth journey with the least stress in regard to issues like driving regulations, local traffic rules and insurance, etc. With that out of the way, here are six expert tips for renting a car abroad;

• Steer Clear of Airport Rentals: Contrary to a common belief, the prices at airports often are much higher. With this in mind, it is best to avoid renting your car at the airport. Instead, opt for nearby rental agencies that you can access by taxi for example. Not only it saves money but also offers a more cost-effective and diverse range of options.
• Mind the Extras: Try to avoid unnecessary add-ons. You will want to check for add-ons like roof racks, unlimited mileage, and ‘free tank’ fuel policies in your agreement. For a starter, these add-ons might seem enticing, but they can increase the price. A quite common scam is being given a full tank that you’re required to pay for upfront. After this, you’re directed to return the car empty as you won’t get any refund.
• International Driving License: You do not want to hit the road without the right paperwork. In fact, a good majority of rental car companies today make having an international driving license mandatory. So, it would be best to obtain your international driving license before your trip to ensure a smooth rental process and to comply with local regulations.
• Smart Price Comparison: You probably already know this but it is still worth the mention. Take your time to compare prices and find the best deal. There are several platforms that allow you to compare prices to ensure that you get the most competitive rates. Again as you compare prices, be sure to look through the terms and conditions for any hidden costs.
• Insurance Assurance: Secure adequate insurance coverage. Many rental companies are actually legally obligated to include basic insurance but you will want to check just to be sure. As you compare the insurance, be sure to understand the coverage offered. You may also want to consider additional insurance options for comprehensive protection against unforeseen circumstances.
• Advance Booking Advantage: If you’re looking to save a few bucks, your best bet is actually to book online. This is relatable as rates are generally cheaper online than at the counter. Early bookings not only guarantee better prices. They also ensure the availability of your preferred vehicle to avoid any nasty surprises at the last minute.

Closing Thoughts

Renting a car abroad shouldn’t be as daunting as it may seem. Perhaps the most important thing is to ensure that you’re extra vigilant. Also, keep an eye on car rental red flags like deals that seem too good to be true and car conditions not matching the inspection report, for example.