Renting a car is an important part of comfortable travel in Europe. Learn how to rent a car in Europe safely and stress-free: information on insurance, deposits, credit cards, car collection and return, as well as important tips for comfortable driving

Renting a car in Europe is a matter of convenience and freedom, but only if you understand the rules of the game. Most of the problems that travelers face are not due to the rental itself, but due to minor nuances: the type of bank card, deductible, insurance or an untimely recorded scratch.

This guide will help you prepare in advance, avoid hidden fees and feel confident - from online booking to returning the keys to the rental agency.

An e-vignette is a digital document that confirms payment for using toll roads and motorways in European countries. It is mandatory for drivers traveling both by their own and rented car in Europe. This is the most convenient way to confirm payment of the road fee - without queues, paper documents and the risk of fines.

Apply for an e-vignette on the Visit World portal without additional requirements and fees.

How to correctly compare offers from car rental services?

At first glance, most rental services look the same: similar prices, identical car photos, and attractive promises. But it is at the comparison stage that half of the future problems or, conversely, a smooth trip are laid.

Key points to check before renting a car abroad

1. Compare not only the price, but also the insurance conditions, deductible, and deposit amount.

2. Promotions and special offers (early booking, weekend discounts) can significantly reduce the cost.

3. Online aggregators are convenient, but remember: you sign the actual contract on the spot, and its terms may differ.

4. Be sure to check reviews specifically about a specific agency at the airport or in the city, and not just about the service in general.

Important! The 14-day cancellation rule for online purchases does not apply to car rentals. That is why carefully reading the cancellation terms is not a formality, but a necessity.

What to look for when analyzing the terms of the contract?

Most conflicts with rental companies arise not because of the event itself, but because the client did not pay attention to the terms of the contract. Even a few lines in small print can cost tens or hundreds of euros.

What to check in a car rental contract before confirming the booking?

1. Additional payments that are not included in the base price (fuel, cleaning, return outside of working hours).

2 Paid options: child seat, GPS, additional driver.

3. Does the contract specify unlimited mileage if you plan to drive a lot.

4. Geographic restrictions: not all companies allow crossing borders or using ferries.

5. Mandatory on-board equipment - the driver is responsible for its availability.

Tip! Check the traffic rules of the country you are visiting in advance. For example, many Italian cities have restricted traffic zones (ZTL), where entering without permission is punishable by a fine.

Driver requirements for car rentals in Europe

Usually, to rent a car in Europe, the driver must meet the following requirements:

1. Minimum age – 18–21 years (often with a surcharge up to 25 years);

2. Driving license with 1–2 years of driving experience;

3. Physical driver’s license (digital versions are not accepted abroad);

4. Bank card in the name of the main driver.

Insurance requirements for rental cars in Europe

The topic of insurance seems complicated, but in practice it is enough to understand the basic principles. The main thing is not to confuse mandatory coverage with additional options offered at the rental counter.

Mandatory insurance for a rental car in Europe

Third party liability insurance (TI / TPI), which covers damage to other road users.

Additional types of insurance for a rental car in Europe

- CDW / LDW – car damage coverage with a deductible.

- TP / TW – car theft insurance.

- Super CDW / SLDW – reduced or zero deductible.

- PAI / SPAI – driver and passenger protection.

Even “full coverage” has exceptions. Most often, tires, glass, roof, underbody, incorrect fuel or incidents under the influence of alcohol or drugs are not covered.

Good to know: some premium bank cards automatically cover the deductible – it is worth checking this before your trip.

Insurance requirements for a second or young driver

- The second driver must be included in the contract, otherwise the insurance is not valid.

- Drivers under 25 almost always pay an additional fee.

What is a deposit when renting a car abroad and how does the type of bank card affect it?

The issue of the deposit often comes as a surprise to travelers, especially if they have not rented a car abroad before. This is where most car rental refusals occur.

Most companies require a credit card in the name of the main driver.

Why not a debit card?

1. A credit card allows you to block a deposit without actually writing off the funds.

2. A debit card often means an actual writing off of €1,000–2,000, which is returned only after the rental is completed.

Tip! Always check the requirements for the type of card in the rental conditions and the intermediary. If in doubt, it is better to clarify this directly with the company before the trip.

What should you check before you pick up the car?

The moment of picking up the car is one of the most important in the entire rental process. This is where the foundation is laid for a smooth return of the car without disputes and additional bills.

Do not rush, even if you are tired after the flight or there is a queue at the agency. A few extra minutes of checking can save hundreds of euros, before leaving, be sure to:

- take photos and videos of the car from all sides;

- carefully check the wheels, bumpers, underbody, interior;

- make sure that all damage is recorded in the act;

- check the fuel level and compliance of the car class with the reservation.

If there is no employee nearby, be sure to notify the company by e-mail of the detected defects immediately after departure.

What to do in emergency situations?

If something goes wrong, for example, an accident or car theft:

1. Immediately notify the rental company and the police;

2. Draw up a report;

3. Keep all documents and receipts.

The company can only charge you with your consent and with supporting documents.

How to return a rented car?

Returning a car seems like a formality, but it is at this stage that additional charges to the card most often occur. The main rule is to leave behind documentary evidence. Additional costs are possible if:

- the car was returned late;

- a different return point than in the contract;

- the car was returned without a full tank;

- new damage is discovered.

Before handing over the keys:

1. Conduct a final inspection of the car;

2. If possible, do this in the presence of an employee;

3. Sign the return document and keep a copy;

4. Take a photo of the car if you return it outside of working hours.

Where to rent a car in Europe?

- Rentalcars - quick comparison and clear conditions.

- Discover Cars - many local companies and honest reviews.

- Sixt – new cars and high service.

- Europcar – convenient for trips between countries.

- Localrent – ​​favorable prices in Southern Europe.

Renting a car in Europe is not difficult if you know the rules in advance. Carefully reading the contract, choosing the right insurance, checking the car upon receipt and return – all these are not trifles, but your financial security.

The better you prepare for the rental, the more freedom and pleasure you will get from the trip – without stress, hidden costs and unpleasant surprises.

When planning to rent a car in Europe, many travelers forget about paying for toll roads. In most EU countries, driving on motorways is possible only with an electronic vignette.

Even if the car is rented, the driver is responsible for the absence of an e-vignette. Applying for it in advance will help:

- avoid fines and police stops;

- not waste time at gas stations or points of sale;

- cross borders and use autobahns with ease.

An electronic vignette is a small thing that really affects the comfort and safety of a road trip in Europe.

Reminder! When planning a trip to Europe by car, it is important to take care of all the necessary documents in advance, including an electronic road vignette. We have already told you in which countries it is required, how the e-vignette system works, how much it costs to apply for it, and how to quickly purchase it online through the Visit World portal.

Photo – Freepik

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