Renting a car abroad: 6 things to watch out for

What should you watch out for when renting a car abroad?
Here are 6 things to keep in mind.

1. Compare prices, offers and cover for rental cars

Before going on holiday, take the time to compare the prices, offers and terms of car rental companies (e.g. via an online search). Do this early enough. This will let you choose from as wide a range of vehicles as possible (at certain tourist spots and at certain times, the choice of available cars is limited), and let you compare prices and rental terms across different agencies. You can also opt for a "fly & drive" package combined with your plane ticket, which is usually a more cost-effective solution.

Be wary of preferential offers. While these may seem appealing, some rental companies may add rental conditions and optional cover. So make sure you're well informed before signing the rental contract.

2. Insurance, deductibles and cover for the rental car

In Europe, renting a vehicle includes third-party liability insurance. You're therefore covered for any material and bodily damage caused to third parties. However, be careful, as many rental companies apply a deductible (sometimes quite high) in the event of a claim. Additional cover can also be taken out to cover other types of risk. Find out which ones in the article " Renting a car: what additional cover should you get? "

3. Watch out for unfair clauses

Some rental companies offer an FPO (Fuel Purchase Option): they charge you the price of a full tank, which lets you return the vehicle with an (almost) empty tank. Be careful, as the price charged is sometimes noticeably higher than what you would have paid filling up yourself at a petrol station. If this option is automatically built into the contract, preventing you from opting out if it doesn't suit you, this could be considered an unfair clause.

Some rental agencies require payment by credit card. Others charge repair fees without the prior authorisation of the customer who rented the vehicle. So be vigilant and check with the agency.

4. Checking the condition of the rental car

Always check the condition of the car before taking possession of it. Do this check with the rental agency, using a form designed for this purpose. Carefully note down any scratches, dents or other damage and defects. Also check that the car documents and required safety equipment are present (fire extinguisher, warning triangle, hi-vis vest(s)...).

Do the same when returning the car. It's therefore best to return the vehicle during the agency's opening hours so the inspection can be carried out by both parties at the same time.

5. Age and driving licence

With some rental companies, you can only rent a vehicle from the age of 21 (with a minimum of 1 year's driving experience). Others require "young driver insurance" up to age 23 or 25, or charge young drivers a surcharge. Make sure to check!

In some countries, particularly outside Europe, you may be asked to show an international driving licence.

6. Follow the traffic rules

Find out about the traffic rules of the foreign country and make sure to follow them. In case of a traffic violation, you'll be held responsible and the rental agency will pass the fine on to you.

More information

For any further information about renting a vehicle in Europe, the European Consumer Centre has published a short brochure giving you valuable advice. You'll find it by clicking here.

Rental car and travel assistance: what's covered?

Have you taken out an annual or temporary travel assistance package (with or without the vehicle option)? In that case, the travel assistance will cover the beneficiaries of the assistance contract in the event of illness, accident or death, as well as the services provided for under travel assistance.

However, the rental vehicle isn't covered by your assistance contract and therefore doesn't benefit from assistance services. In the event of a breakdown, accident or theft of the vehicle, contact your rental agency straight away, and they'll take the necessary steps for their vehicle.

Interesting articles on the same topic:
- Booking a rental car abroad
- Renting a car: what additional cover should you get?
- Optional services when renting a vehicle

First published: 03/2014 - Updated: 08/2021