Tips for Renting a Car During Your Travels (We Wish We Knew These Before our Road Trips!)
Renting a car and planning a road trip is one of our favorite ways to explore new destinations, especially when we want to discover large regions, find hidden gems, or simply travel on our own schedule. But rental companies have a lot of hidden secrets and our tips for renting a car are here to make sure you don’t fall from them.
We’ve had rental companies use fine print to charge us a fortune for tolls, tickets, and border limits. We’ve been denied entry from countries for not having proper paperwork, and we’ve been given cars that gave us a lot of headaches along the way.
Road trips (when done right) are so exciting though, and as long as you know what to look out for, having a vehicle can be the best decision for your itinerary. Here are our top tips for renting a car, so that you can have an enjoyable time on the road, and not lose time and money along the way.
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The Basics of Renting a Car
Before you start booking a rental car or mapping out every stop, let’s first see if renting a car is actually the right choice for your trip, and what to consider if you do plan on doing one.
👀 How to Know If Renting a Car is Right for You
A road trip can be one of the best ways to explore a new destination! But it certainly isn’t the answer to every place. Here are a few ways to know if you should in fact be renting a car for your trip, or if you should plan another alternative.
👍🏼 When Renting a Car Is Worth It
We love road trips because they give us the freedom to explore more than just the main tourist areas, stop whenever we find somewhere unique, and visit places that aren’t always easy to reach by public transportation.
Renting a car was absolutely worth it for us during many of our travels, particularly for ones that have more nature than cities. As photographers, renting a car is also even more ideal because we’re able to explore places on our own schedule, like arriving somewhere before sunrise.
Renting a car can be a great option if you’re visiting several destinations, exploring rural areas, or traveling somewhere with limited public transportation. It can also be a smart idea when traveling with a few people, if you have a lot of luggage, or if you simply want the flexibility to change your plans along the way.
👎🏼 When You Might Be Better Off Without Renting a Car
Renting a car isn’t always the most practical or affordable option. If you’re spending most of your trip in a city with good public transportation, parking and rental costs will most likely cancel our the benefits of having a vehicle. Organized tours, buses, trains, or hiring a driver might make more sense if the roads are difficult to navigate or you’re uncomfortable with the local driving conditions.
Before committing to renting a car, compare the total cost, comfort, and convenience of driving with your other options. Include aspects such as the daily rate, insurance, fuel, tolls, parking, and potential extra fees, and consider how much of your time you’ll actually spend driving.
⭐️ Things to Consider When Renting a Car for Your Trip
Every destination is a bit different, and will have different requirements or things to look out for. Here are the main things you should think about when renting a car for your trip.
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Tips for Renting a Car
We’ve rented cars in so many different regions of the world, and used a variety of companies for our rentals. There’s much more to booking a rental car for your trip than simply choosing your dates and the cheapest price! These tips for renting a car will make sure that you’ve got all your bases covered.
1. Research Driving Requirements for Your Destination
The first thing you’ll need to consider before renting a car is making sure you have the proper documentation for driving in the chosen destination.
Each country has different laws regarding who can and cannot drive, and the documentation needed for legally driving there. Some countries will allow you to simply show your license, while others will require you to have an international license (having a license in English). While in others, you’ll need a physical International driving permit (something you’ll need to plan in advance for).
We learned this the hard way when we arrived in the UAE and Fede’s international license wasn’t enough, but Danni’s US driving license was. Meanwhile in Japan and South Korea neither of us could drive, since we needed to physically bring an International Driving Permit.
2. Check Rental Regulations
Something that’s really important when planning a road trip is to be aware of regions you’re allowed to take the car. Some companies will not allow their vehicles to go on certain roads, or to cross certain borders.
When we were roadtripping Iceland, there were regulations placed on specific roads, and that made a big difference in creating a proper road trip itinerary.
When we were doing our Southern Africa road trip, there were many companies that wouldn’t allow us to take the car outside the country, or into specific countries. Looking at these rules is crucial when booking because you may not be covered everywhere you go, or you may not be given the proper paperwork to make it to certain areas you wanted to include in your road trip.
3. Choose the Right Rental Car
Choosing the right rental car is one of our most important road trip tips! Here are some of the things you’ll want to consider:
🛣️ Road Conditions
Road conditions are one of the top things to consider when choosing a rental car! Does your itinerary include places off-the-beaten-path? Are there a lot of mountainous roads? Will you be driving through sand? Do you needs now tires?
We certainly learned the hard way renting a car in El Salvador! We got stuck on some rough roads, and literally ripped apart the bottom of our car. Had we done the research beforehand, we would have absolutely opted for a high clearance vehicle.
While driving in Botswana, we actually had a high-clearance vehicle! But there were areas with a ton of deep, soft, sand, and we ended up getting stuck in the middle of a national park with no signal. Had we gotten a 4×4 we wouldn’t have lost a full day of our trip.
🛻 Size of the Car
If you’re going to be visiting areas with rugged roads, or you’re going to be out in nature, a high clearance vehicle or a 4×4 are something you’ll want to consider.
But this isn’t the only thing you should think about! The overall size of your car matters, no matter where you go.
If you’re traveling to places where safety might be a concern, or you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, then trunk space is key. Meanwhile, in countries like Italy and Croatia, having a small car was important for being able to fit on the smaller roads and limited parking areas.
🚙 Manual vs Automatic Cars
In the US, the majority of cars are automatic. Don’t make the mistake of assuming all cars are automatic, because actually most places in the world default to manual cars.
If you don’t know how to drive a manual car, you’ll need to make sure you filter your search. If you do know how to drive manual, then it can actually save you money as many destinations (particularly throughout Europe) have much more budget-friendly rates for manual cars vs automatic ones.
🛞 Mileage
Mileage is also a big one! Make sure you pay attention to which companies offer unlimited mileage, and which ones limit you.
If you plan on doing a local road trip where distances are closer, this might not be a big deal. But if you’re going on a road trip where you’ll be on the road for hours, then going over the mileage limit may cost you a pretty penny.
Try to calculate how much you’ll be driving, and look for a company that includes unlimited mileage if you’re unsure of how much you’ll be driving.
⚡️ Electric Cars vs Gas vs Diesel
It’s also important to pay attention to which type of gas (or charge) your vehicle takes! If you’re driving very long distances, an electric car may be a smart idea. That being said, it’s also important to check if your destination will have sufficient charging stations and not leave you stressed about running out of charge.
In the US, gasoline is cheaper, while in some places around Europe Diesel is actually the more budget-friendly choice.
We recommend checking how many miles you’ll be doing, and seeing which of these cars will give you the best return on investment for the road trip you’re planning on doing. It’s also worth comparing the consumption rate on your vehicle. Typically scooters, small cars, and Hybrid options will be best in destinations where gas is very expensive.
4. Look Out for Hidden Fees
This is one of our more important tips for renting a car, so pay attention!
When comparing rental companies, don’t look only at the daily price. Oftentimes the rate shown on websites (particularly third-parties) doesn’t include all of the taxes, fees, or up-charges that you may assume are included.
We’ve had issues with this a few different times – like added fees for airport shuttles in Puerto Rico and extra taxes added that basically doubled the rental price.
Here are a few things you’ll want to keep an eye out for:
💡 If you’re traveling abroad, make sure you understand whether your existing insurance or credit card provides any rental coverage and what conditions apply.
5. Be Mindful of Your Pick Up Time
One of our most important tips for renting a car is to make sure you do your due diligence. There’s nothing worse than showing up to the rental counter and it being closed, or them not having your car.
Sometimes third-party sites will allow you to rent cars outside of operating hours, or even over-book. That’s why over-communicating is key. Call or email your rental company when you make your reservation, and go over the details with them.
It’s also important to give them your flight information, and to consider the time it will take you to get through customs, get your luggage, etc. If you land at 5 pm, don’t rent the car at 5 – rent it at 6. If you show up early you’ll most likely get the car when you arrive. If you arrive late though, there’s a chance they could give your car to someone else (yea that’s happened to us too.).
💡 If your flight is delayed make sure you contact the rental company asap!
6. Look into Tolls and Passes to Pay Them
When you’re traveling somewhere with highways and bridges, you’re most likely going to come across tolls. Some companies include the pass in the car and will directly bill you for whatever is charged.
Some companies will have the pass but then charge you extra for using it – in which case you may want to pay with your own credit card or cash.
Others will sell you access to the pass, and convince you you need it – when you may actually not need it. In California for example, they wanted to charge us a fixed rate per day for using the pass. When we actually looked into the routes we’d be taking, we realized that we didn’t need the pass at all, and that the company was trying to simply make an extra profit.
7. Understand the Fuel Policy and Other Rental Fees
When you’re receiving your car, there’s a good chance the rental company will offer to fill the car for you so that you don’t need to do it. One of our top tips for renting a car is NOT to do it!
You see – rates at car rental companies tend to be higher than where you can find gas elsewhere, and filling up yourself will save you money.
But that’s not the only reason! Sometimes they’ll give you a “good” rate, and it may sound enticing. The truth is, that in the fine print the company will charge you for a full tank. So unless you’re leaving the car without an ounce of gas, you’re basically paying for gas you’re not using.
8. Inspect the Car Before Driving Away
This is one of the most important things to do when renting a car. Before leaving the lot, take photos and videos of the entire vehicle, including the wheels, windshield, mirrors, bumpers, interior, and any scratches, dents, or scuffs. Make sure existing damage is recorded on the rental paperwork, and report anything that hasn’t been documented.
Take a photo of the fuel gauge and odometer, too. It’s helpful to have a clear record of the vehicle’s condition when you collected it, particularly if a dispute comes up after returning it.
Don’t limit your inspection to cosmetic damage. Check the tires, lights, and dashboard for warning lights, and pay attention to anything that feels wrong. We once had brakes that were nearly at the end of their life and discovered the problem while driving down a mountain in the Adirondacks. It’s not a situation you want to find yourself in, especially on unfamiliar roads.
If the brakes, steering, tires, or another essential system seem unsafe, don’t continue driving. Contact the rental company and ask for assistance or a replacement vehicle.
9. Prepare for the Drive
Before leaving, make sure you have everything you’ll need to navigate and handle unexpected situations. Save your rental agreement, driver’s license, any required permits, insurance details, and the rental company’s emergency contact information.
Download offline maps for your route, check the weather forecast, and identify fuel stations along longer stretches of road. If you’re visiting remote areas, fill up before leaving larger towns rather than assuming you’ll find another station nearby. Keep water and snacks in the car, and plan breaks so you aren’t driving for hours without stopping.
It’s also worth checking whether you need special equipment for the destination or season. Depending on where you’re traveling, this could include snow chains, appropriate tires, or other legally required equipment. In places such as Iceland, road and weather conditions can change quickly, so it’s important to check current conditions and make sure your vehicle is suitable for the routes you plan to take.
10. Return the Rental Car Properly
Before the last day of your trip, confirm the exact return location, opening hours, and drop-off procedure. Rental-car return areas can be different from pickup locations, especially at airports, and you don’t want to be searching for the right entrance when you’re already running late.
Refuel according to your rental agreement, allowing enough time to find a gas station near the drop-off location. Once you’ve parked, take photos and videos of the car’s condition, fuel gauge, and odometer. Keep the original files in case the company later claims damage or missing fuel.
Whenever possible, get confirmation that the car has been returned and keep your paperwork and receipts. If you’re returning it outside business hours, follow the company’s instructions carefully and save a record of where and when you left the vehicle. Check your final invoice afterward so you can identify any unexpected charges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Tips for Renting a Car
Now you have all of our tips for renting a car for your trip. But in case you missed anything or have any other questions, here are some frequently asked questions we’ve gotten, along with some we’ve found across the web.
Is renting a car worth it when traveling?
We love renting cars because they give us the freedom to explore beyond the main tourist areas, find hidden gems, and travel on our own schedule. It’s especially worth considering if you’re visiting several destinations, exploring nature, or traveling somewhere with limited public transportation.
That being said, renting a car isn’t always the best option. If you’re mostly staying in a city with good public transportation, the cost of parking, fuel, and the rental itself may not be worth it. Compare the total cost and convenience with alternatives like buses, trains, organized tours, or hiring a driver.
Do I need an international driving permit to rent a car abroad?
It depends on the country you’re visiting. Some destinations accept your regular driver’s license, while others require an international driving permit (IDP), even if your license is in English.
We learned this the hard way. In the UAE, Fede’s international license wasn’t enough, but Danni’s US driver’s license was. In Japan and South Korea, neither of us could drive because we needed to have a physical IDP with us. Always research the local requirements before booking, and arrange any necessary documents in advance.
Can I take a rental car across borders or on any road?
Not necessarily! Rental companies can restrict which countries you can enter and which roads you’re allowed to drive on. Some also require special paperwork or charge extra for certain types of travel.
We ran into this during our road trips in Iceland and Southern Africa, where restrictions affected the routes we could take. We even had to change plans for Fede’s proposal because we couldn’t take our rental car to Victoria Falls. Check the rental regulations before finalizing your itinerary so you don’t end up somewhere you’re not allowed to drive.
How do I choose the right rental car for a road trip?
Think about your route, road conditions, luggage, mileage, and whether you need a manual or automatic car. You’ll also want to consider whether a gas, diesel, or electric vehicle makes the most sense for your trip.
We learned the importance of choosing the right vehicle in El Salvador, where rough roads damaged the bottom of our car, and in Botswana, where we got stuck in deep sand despite having a high-clearance vehicle. A 4×4 would have been the better choice in Botswana.
A bigger vehicle isn’t always better, though. Small cars can be much easier to manage on narrow roads and in limited parking areas, like those we encountered in Italy and Croatia.
What hidden fees should I look out for when renting a car?
Don’t compare rental companies based only on their advertised daily rates. Taxes, airport shuttle fees, insurance, security deposits, additional-driver fees, mileage limits, and cancellation policies can all affect the final cost.
We’ve had rental companies add airport shuttle fees in Puerto Rico and extra taxes that practically doubled the price. Read the fine print, compare the total cost, and make sure you understand what is and isn’t included before booking.
Also check whether your existing insurance or credit card provides rental coverage and what conditions apply, rather than automatically paying for extra coverage at the counter.
Should I get rental car insurance?
Before paying for extra insurance, check whether your existing car insurance or credit card provides rental coverage. If it does, make sure you understand the conditions and limitations, including any restrictions that could apply to your trip.
You’ll also want to understand the rental company’s coverage, including the excess or deductible and any exclusions. Don’t assume you’re covered everywhere just because you purchased a policy. Read the terms carefully and decide what makes sense for your destination and circumstances.
Should I pay for the rental company’s toll pass?
Not always! Some rental companies include a toll pass but charge an additional fee for using it, while others offer a daily pass that may cost more than simply paying the tolls yourself.
In California, a rental company tried to charge us a fixed daily rate for the pass. After checking the routes we planned to take, we realized we didn’t need it at all. Before agreeing to a toll package, research your route, find out how tolls are paid, and compare the cost of the pass with your other options.
Is unlimited mileage worth it on a rental car?
If you’re planning a long road trip, unlimited mileage can be a great option. Some rental companies impose mileage limits, and going over them can lead to expensive extra fees.
We learned this in Azerbaijan, where the distances were much farther than we anticipated and we ended up paying a lot in extra charges. Estimate how much you’ll drive before booking, and compare the cost of unlimited mileage with the fees you’d pay if you exceeded a limit.
Should I prepay for gas when renting a car?
We generally recommend filling up the car yourself before returning it, rather than paying the rental company to do it. Rental companies often charge more for fuel than you’d pay at a regular gas station.
Be especially careful with prepaid fuel options. You may be charged for a full tank even if you return the car with gas left in it. Check the fuel policy in your rental agreement and follow the return requirements to avoid unnecessary charges.
What should I check before driving away with a rental car?
Take photos and videos of the entire car before leaving the rental lot. This includes the wheels, windshield, mirrors, bumpers, interior, and any scratches, dents, or scuffs. Make sure existing damage is recorded on the rental paperwork and report anything that hasn’t been documented.
We also recommend photographing the fuel gauge and odometer. Check the tires, lights, and dashboard for warning lights, too. We once had a rental car with brakes that were nearly at the end of their life and discovered the problem while driving down a mountain in the Adirondacks.
If anything involving the brakes, steering, tires, or another essential system seems unsafe, don’t continue driving. Contact the rental company and request assistance or a replacement vehicle.
What should I do if my flight is delayed and I’m picking up a rental car?
Contact the rental company as soon as possible if your flight is delayed. Don’t assume they’ll automatically hold your car, especially if you’re arriving close to closing time.
We recommend calling or emailing the company after making your reservation to confirm the pickup details and provide your flight information. Also allow enough time to get through customs and collect your luggage. If your flight lands at 5 p.m., for example, booking pickup at 6 p.m. gives you a more realistic window than booking for the moment you land.
How do I avoid extra charges when returning a rental car?
Before your final day, confirm the exact return location, opening hours, and drop-off procedure. Airport rental returns can be in a different place from pickup, so give yourself enough time to find the correct entrance.
Refuel according to your agreement, then take photos and videos of the car, fuel gauge, and odometer when you return it. Whenever possible, get confirmation that the vehicle has been returned, and keep your rental agreement and receipts.
If you’re returning the car outside business hours, follow the company’s instructions carefully and save a record of where and when you left it. Check your final invoice afterward so you can spot unexpected charges.
What should I do to prepare for a long road trip in a rental car?
Before setting off, make sure you have your rental agreement, driver’s license, any required permits, insurance details, and the rental company’s emergency contact information. Download offline maps, check the weather, and identify fuel stations along longer stretches of road.
If you’re visiting remote areas, fill up before leaving larger towns instead of assuming you’ll find another gas station nearby. Keep water and snacks in the car, plan breaks, and check whether you need special equipment such as snow chains or appropriate tires.
Most importantly, make sure the car you booked is suitable for the roads and conditions you’ll encounter. A little preparation can save you a lot of time, money, and stress along the way!
Final Thoughts and Tips for Renting a Car for Your Trip
Renting a car can be an excellent way to explore a new destination! Every area of the world is different when it comes to road conditions, laws, and logistics. Preparing yourself will be the difference from having an epic road trip to have a trip full of headaches.
With our tips for renting a car you’ll be able to choose the car that is right for your road trip, and protect yourself from any bumps that could happen along the way.
⭐️ Our final tips for renting a car:
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👀 What’s Next?
How you know all of our tips for renting a car, which is an important part of planning your road trip.
Here are some other driving guides we have:
🇦🇿 Renting a car in Azerbaijan
🗺️ Azerbaijan road trip
🚗 Southern Africa road trip
🇵🇪 Renting a car in Peru
🛣️ How to drive from Namibia to Botswana
🗿 How to drive to Machu Picchu
🇳🇦 Driving through Namibia
🇿🇦 South Africa Panorama Route
🇳🇴 Complete guide for driving in Norway
🇮🇸 Roadtripping Iceland
🤠 Roadtripping Texas
💧 Route of the Seven Lakes in Patagonia
🇲🇦 Should you rent a car in Morocco?
🇸🇳 Renting a car in Senegal
🇨🇾 Driving in Cyprus
🇸🇻 Renting a car in El Salvador
🇵🇷 Road tp in Puerto Rico
🇲🇽 A guide to driving in Mexico
Ready to start planning an epic road trip? We hope you learned a lot from our tips for renting a car, and that your rental process goes smoothly.
Looking for some travel inspo for particular road trips? We have different driving guides for a variety of destinations that you can check out. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for our weekly article updates, and for exclusive discounts on our shop!
Need more help planning your road trip? We can plan your travels for you, or you can sign up for a one-on-one consultation.
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