Hiring a car abroad is one of the best ways to explore a destination independently. Whether you’re planning a European road trip, exploring the American countryside or discovering beaches and villages away from the main tourist areas, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace.
However, renting a car isn’t always straightforward. Insurance policies, security deposits, fuel charges and unfamiliar rental conditions can quickly turn what looks like a cheap booking into an expensive experience.
We’ve hired cars across Europe, the United States and Canada, most recently during our travels around Crete, Greece. Over the years, we’ve developed a straightforward approach to finding reliable rental companies, choosing appropriate insurance and avoiding unnecessary charges.
In this guide, we’ll share everything we’ve learned about hiring a car abroad, from finding the best deals to inspecting your vehicle and avoiding common mistakes.
Our Five Essential Car Hire Tips
If you’re hiring a car abroad, these are the five things we’d recommend doing every time.
- Compare rental companies before booking. Don’t automatically choose the cheapest vehicle. Check supplier ratings, deposits and rental conditions.
- Understand your insurance. Know what’s included, how much excess you could pay and whether additional protection makes sense.
- Check your payment card requirements. Many rental companies require a physical credit card in the main driver’s name.
- Photograph the entire vehicle. We always document the exterior and interior before driving away and again when returning the car.
- Follow the rental company’s instructions. Pay attention to fuel policies, permitted roads, mileage limits and cross-border restrictions.
These simple precautions have become part of our routine whenever we hire a vehicle.
Is It Worth Hiring a Car Abroad?
In our experience, hiring a car can completely change how you explore a destination.
Instead of relying on bus timetables, taxis or organised excursions, you can visit attractions when you want, discover smaller towns and make spontaneous stops along the way.
There are several advantages:
- Freedom and flexibility: Explore independently without following a fixed schedule.
- Access to remote locations: Reach beaches, villages and viewpoints that public transport doesn’t always serve.
- Convenience: Travel directly between your accommodation and attractions without organising multiple transfers.
- Potential savings: For couples, families and groups, car hire can sometimes be cheaper than relying on taxis or booking multiple excursions.
During our most recent visit to Crete, hiring a car allowed us to explore western Crete beyond Chania, visiting beaches, traditional villages and restaurants independently.
We’ve shared our experience, including practical advice about local driving restrictions, in our Car Hire in Chania guide.
However, renting a vehicle isn’t always necessary.
If you’re spending most of your holiday in a major city with excellent public transport, car hire could add unnecessary parking costs and inconvenience.
Our advice is to plan the places you want to visit before deciding whether you need a car for your entire trip.
How to Find Cheap Car Hire Abroad
Car rental prices can vary considerably between suppliers, even when you’re comparing similar vehicles at the same airport.
The cheapest advertised rate doesn’t necessarily represent the best value, particularly when deposits, insurance and other charges are taken into account.
Compare Car Rental Companies
We regularly use DiscoverCars to compare available vehicles from different rental suppliers.
We’ve used the platform for bookings across Europe and North America, including our most recent rental in Crete.
Rather than checking several company websites individually, we can compare prices, available vehicles, supplier ratings and rental conditions in one place.
However, we don’t automatically book the cheapest option.
If spending a little more means choosing a better-reviewed supplier, securing a smaller security deposit or getting more convenient collection arrangements, we’ll usually consider it worthwhile.
We’ve explained how we compare booking platforms in our Best Car Rental Comparison Site guide.
👉Compare Car Hire Prices with DiscoverCars
Book in Advance
We recommend comparing rental prices well before travelling, particularly during school holidays and peak summer months.
Popular destinations can experience significant demand, and certain vehicle categories, especially automatics, may become harder to find.
Booking earlier generally gives you more choice, although it doesn’t guarantee the cheapest possible price.
We also recommend checking the cancellation policy before confirming your reservation. Some bookings offer free cancellation until a specified deadline, allowing you to change your plans if necessary.
Compare Airport and City Collection
Collecting a rental car directly from the airport is convenient, particularly if you plan to start exploring immediately after landing.
However, airport collection isn’t always the cheapest option.
Some rental locations charge additional airport-related fees, while city-centre branches may offer different rates.
If you’re spending the first few days exploring a city, collecting your rental car later could save money.
Just remember to factor in the cost of travelling between the airport, your accommodation and the rental office.
Choose the Right Vehicle
The cheapest vehicle isn’t necessarily the most suitable for your trip.
Consider the number of passengers, luggage space and the type of roads you’ll be driving on.
For narrow European streets and smaller villages, we generally prefer a compact car that’s easier to park and manoeuvre.
For longer journeys with several passengers and large suitcases, a larger vehicle may be more comfortable.
Also check whether you’re booking a manual or automatic transmission. Automatics can be more expensive or less widely available in some destinations.
How to Choose a Reliable Car Rental Company
One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the company that actually provides your rental car.
A low price can be tempting, but poor service, unexpected charges or unclear rental conditions can quickly outweigh any savings.
When comparing suppliers, we pay particular attention to customer reviews and the terms of the rental agreement.
Check Recent Customer Reviews
We look beyond the overall rating and read what previous customers have said about their experiences.
In particular, we pay attention to recurring complaints involving:
- Unexpected charges at collection.
- Disputes over existing vehicle damage.
- Difficulty recovering security deposits.
- Long waiting times at rental desks.
- Poor vehicle condition.
- Unhelpful customer service.
A handful of negative reviews doesn’t necessarily mean a company should be avoided. However, repeated complaints about the same issue are worth taking seriously.
We also prefer recent reviews because they give a better indication of how a supplier is currently operating.
Check the Rental Conditions
Before confirming a booking, we always recommend reading the supplier’s rental conditions.
These explain important details such as the security deposit, insurance excess, required payment cards, fuel policy and permitted driving areas.
If something isn’t clear, contact the rental company before booking.
Understand Who Provides the Vehicle
Comparison platforms such as DiscoverCars allow you to book vehicles from different rental suppliers.
However, the company providing your vehicle is responsible for the rental desk, collection process and the vehicle itself.
For this reason, choosing a reliable supplier is just as important as choosing a reliable booking platform.
Understanding Car Hire Insurance
Car rental insurance is one of the most confusing parts of hiring a vehicle abroad.
The advertised rental price may include some protection, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re fully covered against damage, theft or additional charges.
Understanding the different types of protection can help you avoid unexpected expenses.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Collision Damage Waiver typically limits your financial responsibility if the rental vehicle is damaged.
However, it usually comes with an excess.
For example, your rental agreement might specify a €1,000 excess. If the vehicle is damaged, you could be responsible for eligible repair costs up to that amount, depending on the agreement.
Certain types of damage may also be excluded, so it’s important to understand the conditions.
Theft Protection
Theft Protection generally limits your financial responsibility if the rental vehicle is stolen.
Like CDW, it may include an excess and specific exclusions.
It also doesn’t necessarily cover personal belongings stolen from inside the vehicle.
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Third-party liability insurance covers certain liabilities involving injury to other people or damage to their property.
The level of protection and applicable limits vary between countries and rental agreements.
Always check what’s included before travelling.
Should You Buy Additional Car Hire Insurance?
When booking through DiscoverCars, we personally always choose the option to purchase additional Full Coverage.
For us, the extra peace of mind is worthwhile, particularly when driving somewhere unfamiliar.
However, it’s important to understand how this protection works.
DiscoverCars Full Coverage generally operates on a reimbursement basis. If the rental company charges you for eligible damage, you may need to pay the supplier first and then submit a claim for reimbursement.
Purchasing this protection doesn’t automatically remove the requirement to leave a security deposit at collection.
Before purchasing additional protection, check:
- The maximum amount that can be reimbursed.
- Which types of damage are included.
- Any exclusions or prohibited activities.
- The documentation required to submit a claim.
- Whether you already have suitable cover through another provider.
Also check which protection product is offered with your booking, as the provider and claims process may vary.
Our advice: Don’t automatically accept or reject additional insurance. Understand the protection already included in your rental agreement and decide whether the extra cover represents good value for your trip.
Car Hire Deposits and Credit Card Requirements
Even when you’ve paid for your rental car in advance, the rental company will often require a security deposit when you collect the vehicle.
This is generally authorised against a payment card and may temporarily reduce your available credit.
The amount varies depending on the supplier, destination, vehicle category and rental conditions.
Do You Need a Credit Card to Hire a Car?
Many rental companies require a physical credit card in the main driver’s name.
This can cause problems if you’ve paid for the booking online using a debit card but arrive at the rental desk without the required credit card.
Some suppliers accept debit cards, but restrictions or higher deposits may apply.
Before confirming your reservation, check:
- Whether a credit card is required.
- Whether debit cards are accepted.
- The amount of the security deposit.
- Whether the card must be in the main driver’s name.
- When the deposit will be released.
We recommend checking these requirements before travelling, rather than discovering a problem at collection.
What to Check Before Driving Away
This is one of the most important parts of our car hire routine.
Whenever we collect a rental vehicle, we inspect it carefully and photograph its condition before leaving the rental office.
Photograph the Entire Vehicle
We take photographs of both the exterior and interior, including:
- Scratches, dents and existing marks.
- Front and rear bumpers.
- Wheels, tyres and alloy rims.
- Windscreen, mirrors and windows.
- Seats, dashboard and interior trim.
- Fuel level and mileage.
We also make sure any existing damage is recorded by the rental company.
If necessary, we’ll ask a member of staff to confirm it before driving away.
These photographs provide evidence of the vehicle’s original condition and can be useful if a damage dispute arises later.
We repeat the process when returning the vehicle.
Follow the Rental Office’s Instructions
Rental agreements often include restrictions that aren’t immediately obvious when booking.
During our most recent trip to Crete, the rental office specifically informed us that we weren’t permitted to drive off-road.
This was particularly important because some popular attractions in western Crete involve access along unpaved roads.
We’ve learned to pay close attention to the advice given by the rental office, particularly when it comes to restricted roads, parking arrangements and local driving conditions.
Never assume a road is permitted simply because it appears on Google Maps.
For more examples from our travels, read our Chania Car Hire Guide.
Check the Fuel Policy
We generally prefer a full-to-full fuel policy where available.
This means collecting the vehicle with a full tank and returning it full.
It gives us more control over fuel costs and avoids potentially expensive refuelling charges.
Whatever policy you choose, make sure you understand the requirements before leaving the rental office.
Hidden Car Hire Costs to Watch Out For
A low advertised rental price doesn’t always represent the final cost.
Before booking, check for potential additional charges.
| Potential Charge | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Security deposit | Amount required and payment card conditions |
| Insurance excess | Maximum potential liability for damage |
| Additional drivers | Daily fees and registration requirements |
| Young driver surcharge | Age-related charges and restrictions |
| Fuel policy | Refuelling fees and prepaid fuel conditions |
| Mileage limits | Daily or total distance allowance |
| One-way rentals | Charges for returning the car elsewhere |
| Airport fees | Additional collection or location charges |
| Late returns | Grace periods and potential penalties |
| Tolls and administration | Road charges and processing fees |
We always recommend comparing the overall rental cost rather than focusing exclusively on the advertised daily rate.
Driving a Rental Car Abroad: Essential Tips
Driving abroad can take some getting used to, particularly when local road layouts, traffic rules and driving customs differ from those at home.
Before travelling, familiarise yourself with the rules for your destination.
Check Your Driving Licence Requirements
Depending on your nationality and destination, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your driving licence.
Requirements vary, and rental companies may have additional documentation rules.
For UK travellers, the GOV.UK driving abroad guidance explains where an IDP may be required and what documentation to carry.
Some rental companies may also request a driving licence check code.
Always confirm the requirements before departure.
Understand Local Road Rules
Check which side of the road vehicles drive on, local speed limits, parking restrictions and rules about mobile phone use.
Some countries also require specific safety equipment to be carried in the vehicle.
It’s also worth checking whether your destination has toll roads, low-emission zones or other driving restrictions.
Be Careful with Unpaved Roads
Not every rental agreement permits driving on gravel tracks, beaches or unpaved mountain roads.
Even SUVs and four-wheel-drive vehicles can be subject to restrictions.
Driving on prohibited roads may invalidate certain protections or leave you responsible for damage.
Always check with the rental company before taking an unfamiliar route.
Check Cross-Border Restrictions
If you’re planning a multi-country road trip, don’t assume you can take your rental vehicle across international borders.
Some suppliers require advance permission, additional documentation or supplementary insurance.
There may also be restrictions on particular countries or vehicle categories.
Confirm these conditions before booking.
Returning Your Rental Car
Returning a vehicle properly is just as important as inspecting it when you collect it.
We recommend allowing plenty of time to reach the rental office, particularly when returning a car before a flight.
Before handing back the keys:
- Refuel according to your rental agreement.
- Remove all personal belongings.
- Photograph the exterior and interior again.
- Record the final mileage and fuel level.
- Ask for confirmation that the vehicle has been returned.
- Keep your rental agreement and photographs until all charges are settled.
If you’re returning the car outside office hours, follow the supplier’s instructions carefully and document the vehicle’s condition.
Remember that security deposit releases can take time, depending on the rental company and card provider.
Common Car Hire Mistakes to Avoid
After renting vehicles in several countries, we’ve developed a few habits that help make the process straightforward.
Choosing the cheapest supplier without checking reviews: A low price isn’t necessarily good value if the rental conditions are poor.
Ignoring the security deposit: Make sure you have the required payment card and sufficient available funds.
Not understanding insurance: Know what your rental includes and what additional protection actually covers.
Failing to inspect the vehicle: Always record existing damage before driving away.
Ignoring driving restrictions: Follow the rental company’s instructions regarding permitted roads and international borders.
Underestimating collection and return times: Allow sufficient time for paperwork, inspections and airport transfers.
Most of these mistakes are easy to avoid with a little preparation.
Where Should You Book Your Rental Car?
There are two main ways to book a rental car: directly with a rental company or through a comparison platform.
Booking directly can be useful if you have a preferred supplier or want to use a particular company’s loyalty programme.
However, we generally prefer comparing several suppliers before deciding.
We’ve regularly used DiscoverCars because it allows us to compare rental companies, available vehicles, prices and booking conditions in one place.
For us, this makes finding a suitable vehicle considerably easier.
However, DiscoverCars is a booking platform rather than necessarily the company providing your vehicle.
Your actual rental experience will depend heavily on the supplier you choose.
That’s why we recommend checking customer ratings, deposits and rental conditions before confirming any booking.
We’ve covered our personal experience with the platform, including its advantages and disadvantages, in our DiscoverCars Review.
👉Search and Compare Rental Cars with DiscoverCars
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire Abroad
Is it cheaper to book car hire in advance?
Booking in advance often gives you more choice and can help secure a competitive price, particularly during busy travel periods. However, prices fluctuate according to demand and availability, so booking early doesn’t always guarantee the lowest rate.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car abroad?
Many rental companies require a physical credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Some accept debit cards, although additional restrictions may apply. Always check the supplier’s payment requirements before booking.
Do I need additional insurance when hiring a car?
Not necessarily. Your rental agreement may already include basic protection, and you might have suitable cover through another provider. However, standard protection can leave you responsible for significant excess charges or excluded damage. Check what’s included before deciding whether additional cover is worthwhile.
What happens if I damage a rental car?
The rental company may charge you for damage according to the rental agreement. Your financial responsibility depends on the protection included, any applicable excess and the circumstances of the damage. If you have separate reimbursement cover, you may be able to claim eligible costs afterwards.
How much is the deposit for a rental car?
Security deposits vary considerably depending on the rental company, vehicle category, destination and insurance conditions. Check the exact amount before booking and ensure you have sufficient available funds.
Can I hire a car without a credit card?
Yes, some rental companies accept debit cards or offer alternative payment arrangements. However, your options may be more limited, and additional conditions can apply. Always confirm the requirements with the supplier.
Is unlimited mileage included with car hire?
Not always. Some rental agreements include unlimited mileage, while others impose daily or total distance limits. Check the mileage policy before booking, particularly if you’re planning a longer road trip.
Can I drive a rental car across international borders?
Sometimes, but you may need advance permission from the rental company. Cross-border travel can involve additional fees, documentation or insurance requirements, and certain destinations may be prohibited.
What should I photograph when collecting a rental car?
Photograph the vehicle’s exterior and interior, including existing damage, wheels, windows, fuel level and mileage. Make sure any existing damage is recorded by the supplier and take another set of photographs when returning the vehicle.
Is DiscoverCars a reliable car hire booking platform?
DiscoverCars is a rental comparison and booking platform that allows travellers to compare vehicles from multiple suppliers. We’ve personally used it for bookings across Europe and North America. However, the experience also depends on the rental company providing your vehicle. Read our full DiscoverCars review for our detailed experience.
Our Final Advice on Hiring a Car Abroad
Hiring a car abroad can be one of the best decisions you make when travelling, particularly if you enjoy exploring independently.
We’ve had positive experiences renting vehicles across Europe and North America, and it’s something we’ll continue doing whenever it makes sense for our itinerary.
Our approach is simple: compare rental companies, understand the insurance, photograph the vehicle and follow the rental office’s advice.
Most importantly, don’t assume the cheapest advertised rental is the best deal.
Choosing a reputable supplier with clear rental conditions and appropriate protection can make the experience considerably more enjoyable.
If you’re planning your next trip, we recommend comparing available vehicles and rental companies before making a decision.