Failing to plan properly before leaving for Europe is one of the reasons why car rental stands in Europe are such a hassle, and putting off obtaining important documentation until you’re in Europe it can be more than a hassle — you may not have a lease at all. Follow these time-tested tips before renting a car and make sure you have a great time.
First Type:
When you arrive at your destination, you will be expected to secure the rental. Your insurance policy in the US is probably limited to North American roads, so you should at least buy some liability coverage from the rental agency. Contact your insurance company just to be sure of your details. The rental agency may ask you to purchase insurance as part of a package when you arrive.
Second Type:
The second and essential thing to do is to get an international permit. It is called International Drivers License — the IDL. Apart from the fact that you have to have one, it’s not as prickly as it sounds. It is designed to solve a language problem. Your state-issued driver’s license must be translated in non-English-speaking countries, so they issue a translated form of your US Driver’s License — in multiple languages.
The Third Type:
See where you can find IDL before you leave. If you get an IDL in the US, you will already be street legal when you arrive. Two agencies are authorized to issue IDL: The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Alliance of Touring Cars (AATL).
Fourth Type:
In terms of age, some countries practice institutional age discrimination. If you are over 75, some countries may be reluctant to give you a set of wheels to tear into. You may be out of luck if you’re 24 or under as well. Of course, you only have to be 18 to apply for IDL.
The Fifth Type:
Planning, for most travelers, is an acquired habit. Stop confusing rental services in the US with those in Europe. Plan every little detail as far ahead as possible. This not only solves the hassle, but results in a money saving find. Some sources say, it is best to make any rental arrangements before you leave for Europe.
The Sixth Type:
Forget renting a big Mercedes-Benz. Favor subcompact cars like the Renault Twingo. Unless you are traveling in a crowd, rent the cheapest car. As usually happens, you can trade up to a larger model when you take the car, assuming they have one available – without sacrificing the subcompact price.
The Seventh Type:
You cannot choose to ignore the rules of the road in Europe. Don’t be ashamed to drive defensively in a place you’ve never been before. The signs look different; even the painted lines are confusing. Britain requires you to drive on the left side of the road. Do not practice this before you leave.
The Eighth Type:
The reality of driving in Europe leads to the conclusion that defensive driving techniques will help. You don’t want to be blind-sided by an Italian cabbie. More to the point, you want to increase your awareness of the things around you. See how the locals drive and consider if that’s how you should drive. Make sound judgments about your own driving.
Gina Brinello has worked as an auto insurance manager for the past 9 years. To find more car insurance advice, visit acceptanceinsurance.com. (Image Via Atomic Taco)
Do you have any top tips for renting a car? Let us know in the comments section below.