Why you should rent a car abroad.

So why a rental car?

Most of us fly all over our home countries and hop into rental cars without giving it a second thought. However, I’ll bet not may of you have ever rented a car in a foreign country. While it can seem intimidating, its pros certainly outweigh its cons!

Here are a few of the highlights of renting a car abroad:

Affordability: If you are not picky about having a luxury model or you are travelling with a group a rental car can actually be an economically competitive way to travel shorter to medium distances.

Lets take a look at an example that we’ve been through. In 2018 we decided to travel to the UK with a group of friends (5 of us total). By far and away the best value flight was Singapore Airlines Houston to Manchester route on their very comfortable Airbus A350. We then wanted to spend day and night in York then head for London.

Train tickets:

Cost: $100-150USD* Per Person

Travel Time: 4.5 Hours Average

Total cost for 5: $500-750USD

Rental Car:

Cost: $550**

Travel time: 5.5 Hours Average

So based on this information, if we assume the best possible pricing to take the train we are still within $10 per person of driving. If we factor in the convenience of not having to haul bags through 3 different train stations, I think you’ll find rental cars worth considering in terms of price.

Flexible Pace: A rental car, while often slower than traveling by train or plane, offers you the opportunity to set your own pace. Whether its deciding when to stop for lunch or just pulling off to enjoy some of the scenery, a rental car makes you master of your schedule.

Flexible Destinations and Routes: Rental cars offer unparalleled access to smaller less popular areas that are often not regularly serviced by trains or aircraft and to easily rearrange how and when you visit each attraction on your list. It can be especially rewarding if you like to take the road less travelled.

How do I rent a car abroad?

Obtain an International Driving Permit from you local AAA office.

1. Print a copy of this form, and fill it out.
2. Get 2 2in x 2in Passport Style Photos (AAA can take the for you but it’s $$$)
3. Bring the forms and photos to your local AAA office.
4. During the application process, make sure that the AAA rep gives you the proper category endorsements* for the type of vehicle you’ll be renting. Most US Drivers licenses defaultly qualify you for: Category B – Passenger Vehicles with up to Driver and seats for up to 8 passengers up to 3500Kg Gross Weight and Category E – Passenger Vehicles with up to Driver and seats for more than 8 passengers up to 3500Kg Gross Weight. Be sure to get the category E endorsement if you are planning to rent any vehicle with more than 9 total seats!!!

Choose the right rental car company.

Make sure to consider:

• Availability of the size of car you need
• Cost for the base rental
• Mileage – many non-US rental companies do not include unlimited miles by default
• One way fees – driving one way can save lots of time but can cost between $50-500 depending on how far you’ll be traveling
• Young driver fees – anyone less than 26, or up to 30 in the case of some large or premium vehicles, should expect to pay an additional young driver fee.
• What Insurance coverages are available?
  • What is your Excess (We call it deductible at home)? This is the maximum amount of damage to the rental vehicle you’ll be liable for in an accident. Excess can generally be reduced for a daily fee.
  • Is damage to glass, tires, and wheels covered? These items often aren’t included but protection for them can also be purchased.
  • Are there any dirt or “unsealed” road exclusions? Most rental coverage will not cover accidents or damage to a vehichle while not on a paved road. Be sure to find out if you plan on doing any offroading.
• Do you get any loyalty rewards? Alwasy remember to leverage your loyalty programs! For example, we get between 2500 and 5000 United miles for every rental with Hertz. So 3-5 rentals is enough for a free domestic flight.

Learn the rules of the road!

Every county has slightly different rules of the road both written an unwritten! Before you hit the road you should look into:

• Which side of the road should you drive on? This seem like a no brainer but people forget all the time.
• What are the maximum speed limits? Speed limit signage is not as prolific abroad as it is in the US so be sure to remember the general speed limits.
• What are the special rules concerning:
  • Stop signs
  • Roundabouts
  • Intersections
  • Passing
  • Street Parking

While there is no way to learn every nuance of driving outside your home country in a short vacation, a little homework before you go and a bit of common sense will generally keep you out of trouble and help you enjoy your experience!