Top 10 tips for renting a car while traveling

Before diving into these tips, it’s worth reading our article [the best way to book a car for a Sabbatical]. Once your car is booked—preferably via DiscoverCars—here’s what to keep in mind to avoid unnecessary stress and extra costs.

1. Choose your rental and check the deposit carefully
If you’re unsure about local rental companies, booking through DiscoverCars or SunnyCars is a safe choice. Always pay attention to the deposit amount. A low deposit, say around $500/€500, might mean you don’t need additional insurance—because the maximum you’d be liable for in case of damage is limited. On the other hand, a higher deposit, like $3,000/€3,000, usually makes additional insurance worthwhile. Whatever the case, always read the rental conditions.

2. Document the car thoroughly before driving off
Take a video of the car from all angles, including the interior and the fuel meter. This can save you from disputes about pre-existing damage when returning the car.

3. Check the tires and car condition
Some cars have a digital tire monitoring system—make sure it’s working. Inspect tires and look for scratches or dents. A quick check now can prevent bigger headaches later.

4. Keep the car clean and return it in the same state
Many rental companies charge extra if the interior or exterior is excessively dirty. Make sure to keep the car tidy during your trip and clean it before returning it. This simple step can save you from unexpected charges.

5. Handle minor issues immediately
If you get a flat tire or another minor problem and don’t have full coverage insurance, go straight to a garage. Letting the rental company handle it can be significantly more expensive.

6. Don’t forget the essentials
The person who booked the car must have both the credit card and driver’s license in the same name. Forgetting this can lead to costly delays or even losing the booking.

7. Keep rental emergency contacts handy
Have the phone numbers of your rental company and roadside assistance saved on your phone. Consider getting an eSIM so you can always contact the company even if you don’t have local mobile coverage. This will save time and stress if something goes wrong, especially in a remote area.

8. Know parking rules in advance
Parking can be tricky, especially in European cities. Check local parking rules, fees, and zones to avoid fines. Planning ahead ensures smoother city stops.

9. Check cross-border travel policies
If you plan to drive between countries, confirm the rental company allows it and check for extra fees. Some countries may require additional insurance or paperwork. Knowing this before leaving prevents unexpected costs.

10. Double-check pick-up and drop-off locations
Consider whether an airport or city-center location makes more sense. Picking up a car in the middle of a busy city can lead to unnecessary stress in traffic jams. Plan your route and timing so that collecting or returning the car is as smooth as possible.

11. Bonus tip: Know the local rules and fuel policies
Different countries have different traffic rules and fuel policies. Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel refill, others charge per liter with a high premium. Check local rules for tolls, speed limits, and driving laws to avoid fines.