Afford the Most Economical Car Rental Rates in Europe, According to Rick Steves
Travelling to Europe and considering renting a car? Rick Steves, a renowned travel expert, offers some practical advice to help you secure the best deal and ensure a smooth driving experience.
Firstly, booking through a consolidator rather than a rental agency can result in better deals, especially for American travellers booking from abroad. However, it's essential to be aware of add-on fees and restrictions to avoid surprise charges.
When it comes to the contract, always review it carefully before confirming to ensure you have the necessary insurance coverage. Some countries may require additional insurance, so it's crucial to check the contract to avoid any gaps in coverage.
Picking up a rental car in a city centre instead of an airport can help avoid extra fees. In-town rental locations may have a smaller fleet than major airport agencies, but this could also mean less waiting time.
The European car rental market can be more limited, particularly in smaller towns. If you want an automatic rental car in Europe, book well in advance and be prepared to pay extra.
Renting a car at the airport usually comes with extra fees. Paying for a rental car upfront can result in lower rates. Prepaid rentals often have better collision damage waiver rates and avoid international transaction fees on credit cards.
Steves also recommends renting directly from well-reviewed companies like Hertz and Europcar rather than third-party brokers to ensure better service and fewer complications.
Before driving off, inspect the car thoroughly, taking timestamped photos and videos of any existing dings or damages to protect yourself from potential disputes later.
Some travelers advise renting at convenient locations and dropping off at a different location to optimize your travel route, but confirm any related fees or restrictions in advance.
In some regions, toll roads may only accept transponder payments or specific card types, so research how to pay tolls along your route to avoid fines or inconvenience.
Lastly, plan for driving rules and local customs. For example, in the UK, drivers are very courteous, and following local driving habits can make your driving experience smoother. Steves also reminds drivers to obey local laws on alcohol limits and the use of mobile devices while driving.
In conclusion, careful planning, choosing reliable rental companies, and understanding local driving conditions can ensure the best deal and experience while driving in Europe. Comparing the cost of booking online and paying in advance versus waiting until pick-up can help you make an informed decision. Booking early gives you more choices for rental cars in Europe.
- To avoid unexpected charges and ensure the best travel insurance coverage, carefully review the rental contract before confirming, especially for countries that may require additional insurance.
- Renting a car directly from well-established companies like Hertz and Europcar can offer better service and fewer complications compared to third-party brokers.
- Prior to collecting your rental car, meticulously inspect it, taking timestamped photos and videos of any existing damages to protect yourself from potential disputes during vehicle return.
