A practical guide to renting a car abroad
MOVE WITH CLARITY
How to rent a car while travelling
Compare the full cost, insurance and deposit before choosing a vehicle.
BookMe editorial team · 23 September 2026
A car can suit trips outside cities or family travel, while public transport or taxis may be simpler in a busy centre. Start by asking whether you need a car for the whole stay or only a few days.
Comparison sites and providers
Comparison sites such as Discover Cars, Rentalcars and EconomyBookings, and providers such as Localrent, QEEQ and Auto Europe can help you explore destination options. Their inclusion here does not mean BookMe is their partner or that a price or vehicle is guaranteed. Always compare the final booking page.
Check terms that change the total
- The deposit amount and hold method, plus the excess for damage or theft.
- What insurance covers and excludes, and whether extra cover is optional.
- Fuel policy, mileage limits and additional-driver fees.
- Out-of-hours, airport or one-way drop-off charges.
- Minimum age, international driving permit and payment-card rules for the main driver.
Before collecting the car
Read country-specific requirements, photograph the vehicle inside and out at collection and return, and record existing damage on the form. Keep a copy of the agreement, fuel receipt and emergency contact details. Drive only after confirming your licence is valid and the insurance suits your use.
Some car-rental search forms are active in BookMe’s Travelpayouts project. We will add a form after retrieving its code and verifying the search and tracking journey; this page does not show live prices.
