How to Plan the Ultimate European Road Trip: Booking Affordable Rental Cars, Insurance, Driving Rules, and More!
- Alanna Gabbett
- Dec 18, 2024
- 22 min read
Updated: Mar 16
Exploring Europe by car can be one of the most thrilling ways to journey through this diverse continent. With its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultures, a road trip allows you to experience Europe at your own pace. Yet, planning can feel overwhelming. This guide aims to simplify your road trip preparations by covering everything from booking rental cars that won't break the bank to understanding insurance and driving regulations.
In This Guide:
a. Utilize Comparison Websites
b. Book Early
c. Explore Different Pickup Locations
d. Always Check Terms and Conditions
e. Look for Discounts
f. Choose Unlimited Mileage
a. Know Your Insurance Types
b. Leverage Credit Card Benefits
a. Know the Speed Limits
b. Be Aware of Alcohol Limits
c. Navigating Roundabouts
d. Cross Border Travel
a. Countries with Toll Roads
b. Vignettes Required
Understanding Low Emissions Zones
a. Overview of Low Emissions Zones (LEZ)
b. Rental Cars and LEZs
c. Common Cities with LEZs in Europe
d. How to Avoid Penalties
e. Fines for Non-Compliance
f. Electric Cars and Hybrid Vehicles
g. Rental Car Agencies and LEZs
h. Tips for Renting a Car in LEZ Areas
a. Investigate Parking Options
b. Utilize Apps for Parking
c. Respect Parking Regulations
d. Anticipate Parking Fees
a. Who can rent a car in Europe?
b. Do I need a special driver's license?
c. Should I book a rental car for my trip?
d. Should I bring a car seat?
e. Will my car come with GPS and navigation?
f. Is it expensive to rent a car in Europe?
g. Do I have to clean the car before returning?
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Choosing a Rental Car
Securing the right rental car at an affordable price involves some strategic research and flexibility. Here are some effective techniques to consider:
Utilize Comparison Websites
Comparison websites streamline the search for affordable rental car rates. They allow you to evaluate a variety of options from different agencies so you can find the right car for your trip.
Some of our favorite sites for affordable car rentals:
CarJet: CarJet.com makes it easy to compare rates from the most popular car rental companies all in one place. The site shows car rentals in most European countries, offers free cancellation on all cars booked through the site, features no credit card fees, and has great reviews. In our experience, the site has continually offered the lowest rates on rental cars, and we have never had an issue when booking with them.
Economy Bookings: Another one of our favorite sites is economybookings.com. This site operates similarly to CarJet, comparing rental prices across multiple companies in real time. The site offers rental car bookings in over 180 countries, has excellent customer service, and offers some of the best rates around.
Some other trusted sites include:
Kayak: Another site that offers a comprehensive view of available vehicles, including additional fees, is Kayak.com. Along with flights and accommodation, Kayak also compares rates for rental cars.
Rentalcars.com: Operated by booking.com, Rentalcars.com features an extensive network of rental agencies worldwide and often provides special discounts. They have over 5 million reviews, no hidden fees, and offer free cancellation on most options.
Expedia: Known for flights, Expedia.com also presents competitive pricing on rental cars and is worth checking out.
Auto Europe: Specializing in European rentals, autoeurope.eu is often recognized for attractive prices. The site compares all the best rental companies, offers pickup in over 24,000 locations, has no credit card fees, and offers free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup.
When comparing prices, always consider the full cost, including taxes, fees, and insurance, instead of just the base rate.
Book Early
Booking a rental car early can save you a significant amount. According to a recent study, prices for rental cars can increase by 20% if booked within a week of the travel date, especially during peak tourist seasons. To have the most competitive rate and the car that best fits your needs, book as early as possible for the most options and best rates. Most of the above sites offer free cancellation and unlimited changes to your booking. So, we advise booking as soon as you see an affordable option, knowing that if plans change you can amend or cancel your booking later.
Explore Different Pick-Up Locations
You might find it cheaper to book a car in less busy areas instead of major airports. For instance, renting a car in a neighboring town could potentially save you 15% or more. One-way rentals can also offer savings and greater flexibility if you plan to visit multiple cities. Although the fees for one-way rentals can sometimes cost as much as the rental itself. We always recommend bringing the rental car back to its pickup location to save the most money.
Always check prices at the airport and inside the city center, as sometimes these prices can differ wildly. Taking an Uber or Taxi from the airport to a rental location in the city may save you hundreds and it's worth checking all locations that you would be able to easily get to.
When planning a multi-country road trip through Europe, we recommend remaining flexible with your itinerary and exploring car rental options before choosing a route.
For example, we recently completed a 3-month road trip in a rental car through every Balkan country in Europe. We knew we needed to do a circle in order to pick up and return the car at the same location and save money. We originally wanted to start in Athens, Greece, however, the rental car options here were pretty expensive and we ran into another issue. The car agencies here did not allow taking the car across borders. We took a significant amount of time researching all our options. We checked flights and rental car prices in every major airport that we could fly into along our route. We tried Tirana, Belgrade, Athens, Skopje, Sofia, Bucharest, and more. We found our best option in Zagreb, Croatia, which then became our road trip starting point. We completed a circle, through every Balkan country, dropping of the rental car back in Zagreb and flying back out of Zagreb airport. Being flexible in this way saved us over $1,000 on our rental car.
Always Check Terms and Conditions
In addition, it's important to check rental terms before booking. Some rental car agencies do not allow you to leave the country with the car. Others only allow entry into a specified list of countries. Most will charge a cross-border fee on pickup. Also, be aware that it is unlikely you will be allowed on ferries with the car. Most agencies prohibit taking the car on a ferry and the few that may allow it, will require an additional fee be paid. Make sure to inform the company prior to picking up so they can prepare the correct documentation.
Also be sure to check for additional fees, such as before or after hours pickup and drop off, additional driver fees, fees for car seats, GPS, Wi-Fi, and other accessories.
Make sure you are fully aware of all restrictions, limitations, and rules before booking a rental car. Read all terms and conditions and make sure they align with your travel plans.
Look for Discounts
Always be on the lookout for discounts. Options include:
Membership Discounts: Organizations like AAA and AARP often offer notable discounts on rentals.
Frequent Flyer Programs: Many airlines partner with rental services and provide discounts to their members, which can save you anywhere from 5% to 15%.
Credit Card Miles Programs: In addition to your regular credit card miles earned, when booking with some travel credit cards, you can receive bonus miles for booking a rental car through their travel portal. One of these options is the Capital One Venture X, which offers 10X miles on rental cars booked through their travel portal.
For example: when booking our accommodation in Iceland, we received a message from the host that included a discount code to a popular rental car agency. It's worth asking your hotel or Airbnb host if they have any special discounts or know where you can get one.
Choose Unlimited Mileage
When booking, ensure your rental agreement includes unlimited mileage. This provision allows you to freely explore without the concern of incurring extra fees, which can sometimes exceed $0.25 per mile.
Navigating Insurance Needs
Understanding the insurance choices for your rental car is crucial to shield yourself from unforeseen costs. Although opting for full coverage can significantly raise your rental expenses, it might be a valuable choice to safeguard you in case of an accident. Nonetheless, before opting for full coverage via the agency, it's essential to explore the various insurance types available and the strategies to help you save money.
Know Your Insurance Types
Basic Insurance
Basic insurance usually comes included in the rental rate in Europe and typically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP), but it often comes with a high deductible (excess). This means in case of an accident; you may be required to pay a large deductible toward the repairs.
What It Covers:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Limits your financial liability for damage to the rental car but does not cover all damages. You are still responsible for the deductible (excess), which can be quite high.
Theft Protection (TP): Reduces your liability if the car is stolen, though you may still need to pay an excess amount.
What It Does NOT Cover:
Damage to windows, tires, undercarriage, mirrors, and sometimes even the roof.
Interior damage, lost keys, or using the wrong fuel.
Personal belongings inside the car.
Third-party liability (this might be included in some countries but always check).
Full Coverage
Opting for full coverage reduced your liability and your deductible responsibility.
You will usually have the option to purchase Super CDW or Full Protection Insurance from the rental agency or a third-party provider.
Always check the fine print, as coverage details can vary between companies.2. Leverage Credit Card Benefits
Many credit cards provide rental car insurance as a benefit. To maximize these advantages:
Confirm Coverage: Reach out to your credit card issuer to verify coverage for rentals in Europe. Be sure to understand your credit card's coverage limits and the necessary steps to file a claim efficiently.
Decline Extra Insurance: If your credit card offers adequate insurance, you may decline the rental agency’s extra coverage, saving you a daily fee that can range from €10 to €30. The credit card company may require that you decline all insurances, even basic coverages like CDW and TF in order to access their coverage.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card offers great rental car coverage. They feature rental car collision coverage up to $60,000 for theft and collision damage for most rental vehicles with an MSRP of $125,000 or less. Check terms and conditions for specific details and how to access this coverage. Understanding Driving Rules
Driving regulations and rules can vary widely among European countries. Being informed is crucial for a trouble-free road trip.
Know the Speed Limits
Speed limits are not universal and can differ significantly. Here are a few examples:
France: 130 km/h on highways and 110 km/h during rainy conditions.
Germany: Certain sections of the Autobahn have no speed limit, but a speed of 130 km/h is typically recommended.
Italy: Standard limits are 130 km/h on highways and 50 km/h in urban areas.
Always keep an eye out for changing speed limit signs and be aware that speed limits showing on Google or Apple Maps may not be the most accurate.
It's important to note that some countries have speed cameras installed on roads and highways. If you are caught speeding on camera, you will receive a hefty fine from the rental car agency after your trip. The rental agency usually charges you the original fine plus additional fees. This happened to us after a road trip in Spain back in 2017.
Be Aware of Alcohol Limits
Each country has its own blood alcohol limit. For instance:
Spain: 0.5%
France: 0.5% (lower limit for commercial drivers)
Sweden: 0.2%
Germany: 0.5 % (0.0% for commercial drivers)
In addition, some countries have a limit of 0.0%:
Czech Republic
Hungary
Romania
Slovakia
For more information - Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Drink Driving Limits across Europe - ETSC
Driving under the influence can result in severe penalties, including fines that can reach thousands of euros or even jail time.
Navigating Roundabouts
Roundabouts are common throughout Europe. Navigating roundabouts in Europe follows a few key principles, although the specific rules may vary slightly from country to country.
Here are some general guidelines:
Yield to Traffic: In most European countries, traffic inside the roundabout has the right of way. Vehicles entering the roundabout must yield to those already circulating. However, in some countries like France and the UK, there may be exceptions depending on the specific road markings and signs.
Signage and Lane Discipline: Look for clear signage indicating the number of exits, and be prepared to take the appropriate lane. Larger roundabouts often have multiple lanes, so positioning early is important if you plan to take a specific exit.
Indicating Turns: Always use your indicators to signal your intentions. In most European countries, you should signal right when you are preparing to exit the roundabout.
Cyclists and Pedestrians: Many roundabouts in Europe are designed with bike lanes or pedestrian crossings. Always check for cyclists or pedestrians before entering or exiting.
Cross-Border Travel
Before you book your rental, ask if the rental company allows cross-border travel. Some agencies impose restrictions, particularly for trips into Eastern Europe.
Some rental car agencies do not allow you to leave the country with the car. Others only allow entry into a specified list of countries. Most will charge a cross-border fee on pickup. Also, be aware that it is unlikely you will be allowed on ferries with the car. Most agencies prohibit taking the car on a ferry and the few that may allow it, will require an additional fee be paid. Make sure to inform the company prior to picking up so they can prepare the correct documentation.
For example, when booking a car for our 3-month Balkan road trip, we had to find a company that allowed us to cross the border into every country we planned to visit. This was particularly difficult as we were visiting countries such as Kosovo and Albania, which many rental agencies do not allow you to travel to. Luckily, we were able to find a company that allowed us to pay a cross-border fee, letting us travel to every Balkan country.
Special note: When taking a rental car to Kosovo, your rental car insurance will not cover you. At the border, you will be required to purchase additional coverage at the border office. It's cheap and based on your length of stay.
Managing Tolls and Vignettes
Understanding the toll systems in Europe is essential for budgeting your trip.
Countries with Toll Roads
Countries such as France, Italy, and Greece feature numerous toll roads, which can quickly increase your expenses. For example, driving on the A8 in France could cost you over €20.
Make sure to always carry local currency in small denominations, in addition to travel credit cards. Some toll booths may only accept cash, while other may take cash or card.
For example, in Greece, all toll booths on major highways accepted credit cards, while in Bosnia and Croatia, toll booths usually only accept cash.
2. Vignettes Required
A few countries require a vignette or sticker for highway travel. You can buy these at border checkpoints, gas stations, or online. The fine for failing to purchase a vignette can be steep, so it's wise to secure it in advance.
Countries requiring a vignette:
Bulgaria
Albania (requires a physical sticker on your windshield that can be purchased at gas stations and post offices)
Hungary
Slovakia
Slovenia
Czech Republic
Switzerland
Romania
Austria (requires a physical sticker on your windshield that can be purchased at gas stations and post offices)
To purchase an E-Vignette, head to vintrica.com
Understanding Low Emissions Zones
As cities become more focused on reducing pollution and traffic, green zones limiting vehicle access have become common.
Green Zones or Low Emissions Zones (LEZ) in Europe are areas where access is restricted or regulated based on the emissions of vehicles, with the aim of reducing air pollution and improving public health. Many major European cities have implemented such zones, and they often affect rental cars, particularly those with higher emissions.
Key information regarding Green Zones and LEZs for rental cars:
Overview of Low Emissions Zones (LEZ)
Purpose: LEZs are designed to limit the number of high-emission vehicles entering certain urban areas. This includes restrictions on cars, vans, trucks, and buses that do not meet specific environmental standards, usually based on Euro emission standards.
Emission Standards: Vehicles that do not meet the required emission standards (usually Euro 4 and above for diesel and Euro 2 and above for petrol vehicles) may be restricted or subject to a charge.
Rental Cars and LEZs
Access and Restrictions: If you're renting a car in a city with a Green Zone or LEZ, the rental car’s emissions standard will determine whether you can enter these zones. Many rental companies offer vehicles that comply with the required Euro standards (e.g., electric cars, hybrid vehicles, or newer petrol and diesel models). If you rent an older or higher-emission car, you might face fines or be restricted from entering certain areas.
Charges: In addition to entry restrictions, some cities charge a daily fee for driving in LEZs, which rental car companies may include in your rental agreement or bill you separately.
Common Cities with LEZs in Europe
London: The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is in place in central London. It covers a large part of the city, with strict emissions standards for vehicles, including rental cars. A daily charge applies for non-compliant vehicles.
Paris: The Low Emission Zone (Zone à Faibles Émissions, or ZFE) covers central Paris and some surrounding areas. It restricts access to older, more polluting cars.
Berlin: The city's "Environmental Zone" requires vehicles to have a green badge (Feinstaubplakette) that indicates compliance with environmental standards.
Madrid: The "Madrid Central" area is a low-emission zone with restrictions on older vehicles, and electric cars are often exempt from charges.
Rome: Several parts of the city are designated as restricted zones with emission controls, especially in the historical center.
Barcelona: The "Zona de Bajas Emisiones" (ZBE) limits access to certain areas for older or high-emission vehicles.
How to Avoid Penalties
Check Local Rules: Before renting a car, check if the city has an LEZ and understand the vehicle restrictions. This is especially important if you plan to visit multiple cities during your trip.
Choose Eco-Friendly Cars: Most rental companies in cities with LEZs offer electric or hybrid vehicles that are compliant with emissions standards. These are usually exempt from charges or restrictions.
Get a "Green Badge" (if applicable): In some cities like Berlin, you might need to obtain a special environmental badge (available for a small fee) for your rental car if it's allowed to enter the low-emission zones.
Fines for Non-Compliance
Penalties: If you enter a low-emission zone without meeting the required standards, you can face substantial fines, which are typically forwarded by the rental company to you.
Electric Cars and Hybrid Vehicles
Exemptions: Electric and hybrid vehicles often have special exemptions or lower entry charges for LEZs. Many rental companies now offer electric cars as part of their fleets, which can be a good choice if you plan to drive in cities with strict emission regulations.
Rental Car Agencies and LEZs
Rental Companies’ Responsibility: Most major rental car companies are aware of LEZ restrictions and provide compliant vehicles in cities where these zones exist. They often offer vehicles that comply with Euro 6 or higher standards, which are suitable for driving in most LEZs.
Tips for Renting a Car in LEZ Areas
Before Booking: Check with the rental company about the emission standards of the car you're renting.
Rental Documentation: Ensure the car has the appropriate environmental sticker or documentation to enter restricted zones.
Consider Electric or Hybrid Options: If you're planning to drive in multiple cities with LEZs, opting for an electric or hybrid car will make travel easier and more environmentally friendly.
By understanding the requirements of low-emission zones and choosing the right car, you can avoid penalties while contributing to cleaner air in European cities.
When in doubt, always consult with your rental car agency and provide them with your planned itinerary so they can best help you navigate LEZ zones.
Parking in the City
Securing parking in European urban areas can be difficult. Here are some strategies to streamline the process:
1. Investigate Parking Options
Check city resources for authorized parking areas. Researching ahead can save you time and help you avoid fines. Look for public parking spaces such as lots and garages and familiarize yourself with street parking rules on official city websites.
Our recommendation is always to book a hotel or Airbnb with private parking included. This way you have guaranteed free parking and can either walk or take public transportation into city centers, avoiding the parking struggle altogether.
2. Utilize Apps for Parking
Multiple apps, like Parkopedia, help locate nearby parking and show real-time prices. Parkopedia will also show you what payment methods are accepted at the location you choose. Using tools like this can save you from driving in circles looking for a spot.
Some cities and towns may also require parking payments be handled by various phone applications or SMS. Always check official sites to find the best ways to pay for parking in your location and be on the lookout for signs indicating how to pay.
3. Respect Parking Regulations
Always read signs closely. Many areas require parking tickets, and failing to display one may result in fines. In cities like Barcelona and Amsterdam, ticket amounts can be as high as €120.
Some locations have designated parking spots for city officials, families with children, or the disabled. Never park in a designated spot without the proper documentation.
4. Anticipate Parking Fees
Prepare for parking fees that can vary significantly by location. Expect higher rates in tourist-heavy areas like Venice and cheaper options in smaller towns or rural locations. Parking garages and lots can vary in price from one side of the city to the other, so always check prices ahead of time to get the best rates. We recommend reading Google reviews for parking lots to see what other people have paid recently.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about renting a car in Europe. Whether you're wondering about driving requirements, car insurance, or the best vehicle for your trip, these FAQs will help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable road trip through Europe.
Who can rent a car in Europe?
The typical minimum age to rent a car in Europe is 21 years old. However, some countries may allow drivers to rent at 18 or 20, especially in countries like Italy and France. However, drivers under 25 years old may be subject to young driver fees, which are additional charges for renting a car. Some rental agencies impose a maximum age limit, typically around 70-75 years old. However, this varies by company, and older drivers may be required to provide additional documentation or may face higher fees.
Do I need a special driver's license?
You must have a valid driver’s license in your home country in order to rent a car in Europe. For non-European Union (EU) residents, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required, although as long as your driver's license is in English, you shouldn't need an IDP. An IDP is simple and cheap to acquire. You can usually get one at your local DMV or AAA office.
Although not common, some agencies may also require you to have held a driver's license for at least 1-2 years before renting a car. Additionally, certain car types (like luxury or high-performance vehicles) may have stricter age and experience requirements, such as being over 25 or having a minimum of 3-5 years of driving experience.
Always check terms and conditions before renting a car and if unsure, reach out to the company before booking.
Should I book a rental car for my trip?
Whether you should book a rental car for your trip depends on several factors, including the destination, the nature of your trip, your preferences, and your budget.
Here's a breakdown of scenarios where renting a car makes sense, as well as situations where it might not be necessary:
Reasons to Rent a Car
a. Exploring Rural Areas or Smaller Towns: If you're traveling to more remote or rural parts of Europe, a rental car can be incredibly useful. Public transportation may be limited, and having a car will give you more flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
b. Visiting Multiple Destinations: If your trip involves visiting several cities or regions that are spread out, having a car might be more convenient than relying on trains or buses. This is especially true if you’re planning to visit places with limited public transport connections.
We traveled to 7 Christmas markets in 5 countries in just 7 days in 2023. The cost of renting a car was much cheaper than buying train tickets for our family of 4.
c. Flexibility and Comfort: A rental car provides flexibility in terms of timing and route. You can decide when to stop, change your plans on the fly, and travel at your own pace, without worrying about schedules or public transport availability.
This is of particular importance to us as we travel with 2 young children. Having the flexibility to travel at our own pace and make as many stops as we need, makes the overall trip more enjoyable.
d. Traveling with Luggage or a Group: If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or with a group of people, having a rental car can make your trip more comfortable. It offers space and privacy, and you won’t have to worry about navigating crowded public transportation or taxis with lots of luggage.
e. Cost-Effective for Certain Destinations: In some countries or regions, renting a car can be cheaper than buying multiple train or bus tickets, especially if you’re traveling with others. It might also be more convenient for reaching destinations that aren’t well-served by public transport.
f. Visiting Areas with Limited Public Transport: Certain regions, particularly in more remote or mountainous areas (e.g., the Alps, parts of Spain, and Italy), may have limited or no public transport options. A rental car would be the only viable way to reach these areas.
Reasons to Skip Renting a Car
a. Cities with Excellent Public Transportation: In major European cities like Paris, London, Barcelona, Berlin, or Amsterdam, public transportation (trains, trams, buses) is typically very efficient, affordable, and convenient. Renting a car in these places can be expensive and unnecessary.
b. High Parking Costs and Limited Parking: Parking in city centers can be difficult and expensive. If you're planning to stay in busy urban areas, parking fees might outweigh the benefits of having a car. Some cities also have restricted areas or congestion charges that make driving a hassle.
c. Environmental Considerations: Many cities in Europe are becoming more eco-conscious, with efforts to reduce car emissions and promote walking or cycling. If you’re visiting cities with low-emission zones (LEZ) or congestion charges, driving might not be ideal.
d. Tight Budget: Renting a car involves not just the rental cost but also fuel, parking, and insurance. If you’re on a tight budget, using public transportation or taking occasional taxis may be more cost-effective.
e. Short Stays or Focused Itineraries: If you’re staying in one city or area and don’t plan to venture outside, a rental car might be unnecessary. Public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing services (like Uber) might be more efficient and cheaper for short trips.
Should I bring a car seat?
When traveling with children, it's important to consider the cost of renting a car seat through the rental agency. In general, it is always cheaper to bring a car seat from home, as costs for car seat rental can be between €5 - €20 per day.
Most agencies will offer a variety of options such as standard car seats, infant seats, and boosters.
When bringing a car seat from home, you should consider the rules and regulations of the country you are traveling to, as car seat laws can vary from place to place. Where your child may not require a car seat in your home country, they may require one in your destination.
In addition, typically American car seats are not acceptable in most European countries, as their car seats have different regulations. With that said, we have used American car seats in Europe without issue, even though chest clips are generally not acceptable across Europe.
If you are looking to lighten your load at the airport, consider the RideSafer Compact Portable Car Seat for children over 3 years old. It is proven safe and legal in all US states as well as many countries internationally. It is easy to pack, install, and is so much better than bringing along a bulky car seat on your trips. They have multiple sizes tailored to kids from 3 years of age up to 10+. This has been a lifesaver for us as we navigate travel with two toddlers. We use a standard car seat for our 2-year-old and the RideSafer for our 4-year-old. It certainly beats having to lug two car seats around.
Will my car come with GPS and navigation?
Whether your rental car comes with GPS and navigation depends on the rental company, the type of car, and the location. In general, GPS navigation is typically not included by default. It's usually offered as an optional extra for an additional fee.
If you need a GPS, rental companies usually charge an additional fee, which can range from €10 to €20 per day (approximately $11 to $22 USD). The exact price depends on the rental agency and the location.
As an alternative, we recommend using your phone for navigation. Apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze can ensure you reach your destination. Make sure you have an international data plan, local SIM card or eSim with enough data. We recommend using Holafly, which offers affordable rates for unlimited data plans.
Additionally, it can be important to download offline maps to save on data costs, as well as ensure you always find your way even in remote areas where service may be spotty.
Is it expensive to rent a car in Europe?
Rental costs can vary wildly across Europe and even vary between companies and pick up locations. The following factors have the most impact on cost:
Location: In general, countries in Western Europe typically have higher rental prices, while countries in Eastern Europe offer lower costs. Scandinavian countries in particular have the highest costs, due to higher taxes, fuel costs, and higher cost of living.
Time of Year: Time of year can also impact costs, with high season (summer and holidays) featuring the highest prices and off-season having more affordable costs.
Type of Car: Type of car also has a big influence on cost, with manual cars offering lower costs than automatic transmission. Economy and compact cars are also more affordable than SUV's or luxury cars.
Length of Rental: Long term rentals may provide additional discounts and lower prices, as weekly or monthly rates may be cheaper than daily rates.
Insurance: The insurance package you choose influences the total cost you pay. Basic insurance is generally included, however adds ons like CDW or theft protection will add cost to the rental.
Rental Location: Picking up your rental at an airport versus another location in the city can add to the cost of your rental. This is due to airport surcharges that apply in most cities.
Renting a car in Europe is not inherently expensive, but costs can vary significantly depending on your destination, vehicle type, rental duration, and season. You can usually find affordable rental options if you're flexible with the type of car, travel during the off-season, and take care to book in advance. On the other hand, renting in major cities, especially during peak travel times, can be costly.
Do I have to clean the car before returning?
We've discovered that many European car rental companies impose additional cleaning fees if the car requires even just a vacuum (yes, this happened to us; a $250 charge if we didn't vacuum the car before returning). It's recommended to review your terms and conditions to understand their expectations and what they define as "excessively dirty." Most car rental agencies charge extra for sand, so remember this for beach trips.
We suggest visiting a self-service or full-service car wash before returning the vehicle for a quick vacuum and wipe-down. This can help you avoid unexpected charges at drop-off.
Example: Although not in Europe, when we rented a car in Oman, the agency was very specific on how the vehicle needed to be returned, meaning we were required to take the car for a professional full-service clean at a car wash. This didn't cost much but it's something you need to know ahead of time and should discuss with the rental agency.
Preparing for Your European Adventure
Driving through Europe can be an unforgettable experience, offering the freedom to explore at your leisure. By applying smart strategies for booking, understanding the importance of insurance, familiarizing yourself with local driving laws, and paying attention to tolls and parking regulations, you'll set the stage for an enjoyable journey.
Thorough preparation is key to an amazing road trip. Safe travels and enjoy the many adventures waiting for you across Europe!
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