Three things to consider when renting a car on vacation
When going on vacation, you don't want to have trouble renting a vehicle. Such a scenario would leave a sour taste in your mouth. Planning ahead will ensure you book the vehicle you need, enjoy your trip, and leave with good memories rather than nightmares about the car rental.
Did you know that around nine in 10 Americans – 92% – intend to travel this year? Meanwhile, 55% want to travel more this year than last year.
If you're one of the majority planning to enjoy some rest and relaxation this spring, summer, fall, or winter, the sky's the limit. The world offers plenty to experience. So, if you have places to go, people to see, and things to experience, traveling is the perfect way to do just that.
Whether you get in your car and go on an epic road trip, go aboard a cruise ship to explore a specific part of the world, or get on a plane to fly somewhere, you can enjoy some fun alone, with family, or with friends.
You'll want to plan a great itinerary to enjoy the sights and sounds. But unless you take a bunch of taxis or charter a vehicle to get around, you will want to consider renting a car. You can't assume, however, that renting a car in a foreign nation is the same as doing so in the U.S.
It's essential to research ahead of time so you know your options. For one thing, you'll want to rent from a company that takes good care of its fleet. Check out online reviews to find out. A reputable car rental company in any country you visit will use a robust fleet maintenance system to stay on top of routine maintenance and repairs so its vehicles remain safe.
Here are three things to consider when renting a vehicle in a foreign country so you can get around.
1. Driver's License Requirements and International Permits
Before renting a vehicle in another country, check to ensure your driver's license is valid in that foreign nation. There's a good chance it will be, but there's a possibility your driver's license won't be a valid legal document. In such cases, you will need an international driving permit.
You must apply for this document in your home nation before your trip. Before you even think about booking a car rental, look into the licensing requirements to avoid problems.
2. Local Traffic Laws and Road Conditions
It's also essential to familiarize yourself with local traffic regulations and road conditions.
You shouldn't throw caution to the wind since you won't get a pass should you violate the rules of the road in your vacation destination. In some countries, for instance, you may have to drive on the left side of the road rather than the right side of the road. If you fail to notice this and drive on the side of the road you would at home, accidents could result. So, learn about local speed limits, right-of-way rules, road sign meanings, and more.
Just as important as knowing local traffic laws is learning about road conditions. Depending on where you go, the roads and highways may not be maintained the way they are in the U.S. It's best to know all of this beforehand.
3. Insurance Coverage
You also need to look carefully at insurance. Don't assume your car insurance policy in the U.S. will travel with you abroad.
If it doesn't, you can get coverage from your insurer specifically for your trip. Your insurance company can discuss things like collision damage waiver, third-party liability, and theft protection.
The coverage you need may also be available from your credit card provider under certain conditions.
When going on vacation, you don't want to have trouble renting a vehicle. Such a scenario would leave a sour taste in your mouth. Planning ahead will ensure you book the vehicle you need, enjoy your trip, and leave with good memories rather than nightmares about the car rental.
Photo by Simon Tartarotti on Unsplash
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