I’ll just go ahead and say it – the first time I rented a car abroad, I was nervous!
I obviously had a twisted idea in mind. I imagined winding cliffside roads in Greece. chaotic traffic (and drivers!) in Italy, and in Thailand, I worried about driving on the other side of the road. But once I got behind the wheel, I realised how freeing it felt to explore at my own pace!
No longer bound by bus or tour schedules. I could stop at hidden beaches or tiny villages. This was the lightbulb moment!
Over the years, I’ve rented cars everywhere from the quiet countryside of New Zealand to the snowy landscapes of Iceland and even the neon streets of Japan. Each time I learned that renting a car isn’t just for confident drivers or luxury travellers, it’s for anyone who wants the thrill of discovering places on their own terms.
With a bit of planning, it’s simpler and safer than it looks. And a whole lot more rewarding!
If you’ve ever felt anxious about it, don’t worry. I’ve created this guide with a simple goal in mind. To walk you through everything you need to know to do it confidently and affordably, turning road trips into unforgettable adventures!
Let’s drive, I mean, dive in!
Why Go on a Road Trip?
Now, for me, road trips are often the best part of any journey. There is something about rolling the windows down, feeling the wind through my hair, and knowing that the next turn could lead to a new discovery. Maybe a mountain pass, a hidden lake, or a tiny town that feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. All I know is, I’ve been on some of the best road trips in the world, and they’ve been a highlight of my travels.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
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The freedom is unmatched. You march to the beat of your own drum, stop when you want, and take that random road. Why? Well, just because it looks interesting! Scenic drives turn into lasting memories, from coastal highways and winding forest routes. It’s pure bliss! Plus, the flexibility means you are never stuck following a rigid plan!
Best of all, road trips are often cheaper than constantly booking tours or relying on taxis. A tank of gas can carry you through days of exploration, giving you more value. And more stories, of course! It is adventure, independence, and fun all rolled into one unforgettable ride. Period.
Is it Safe to Rent a Car Abroad?
One of the biggest questions I get asked is whether it’s safe to rent a car abroad. And the simple truth is, in most places, absolutely! I’ve driven along the looooong open highways of the USA, the quiet countryside lanes of New Zealand, and the winding highland roads of Scotland. Each experience felt surprisingly smooth and stress-free.
Road signs are often in English, barring the odd Scottish Gaelic or Maori here and there. Google Maps also works pretty much everywhere, and the best rental companies normally help out and give you pretty clear guidance.
Of course, every country has its quirks. In Italy, drivers can be a little impatient; in Thailand (and NZ), you’ll need to adjust to driving on the left, and in some cities (like Hanoi), traffic can feel chaotic. But with a bit of awareness and patience, it’s all manageable, and honestly, it’s all part of the fun. And why we travel!
The key is to stay calm, observe local driving habits, and ease into it. You’ll quickly realise that renting a car abroad is not just safe, it’s one of the best ways to explore. You’ll thank me later!
How to Find the Best Deals on Car Hire
I’ve learned over the years that finding the best deals on car hire is all about smart planning. Remember, be 6 P’s – proper planning prevents piss poor performance! I always start by comparing prices across various platforms. Some of my favourites include Kayak, Discover Cars, and Rentalcars.com, because the same car can be listed at very different rates. A quick check across a few sites has honestly saved me hundreds, probably even thousands, of dollars over the years.
Another big one is to try to book in advance whenever you can, since last-minute rentals almost always cost more. I’ve also had great experiences with smaller local companies, as long as they’re well reviewed. Nothing like renting a Fiat 500 from a local nonno in Italy! Also, try to avoid airport rentals because the extra fees can really add up.
Lastly, I’ve noticed how much prices shift depending on season and destination. Renting in New Zealand during peak summer was far pricier than in the shoulder months, while in Scotland, I found great deals just outside major cities. With a little preparation, affordable car hire is absolutely possible. Remember, smart travel is the way forward!
One of the best ways to travel off-the-beaten-path is to hire your own wheels. If you can convince a few mates to join you, it can actually be pretty affordable… and bloody good time!
Check Rental Car PricesTop Tips For Renting a Car For a Road Trip
Remember the 6 P’s of travel I’ve just told you about. Trust me, proper preparation and planning make all the difference! Renting a car doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive, and with the right “know-how”, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth adventure.
Here are some of the top tips I’ve picked up along the way to help you save money, avoid hassles, and enjoy the journey to the fullest!
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Do I Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is basically a translation of your license that some countries require for foreign drivers. Most of Europe doesn’t need one for UK, US, or Australian license holders, but parts of Asia and South America often do. It’s always best to check official government sources (like gov.uk, for example) BEFORE YOU TRAVEL just to be sure you’re covered to drive.
What You Need to Rent a Car for a Road Trip Overseas
Right, the following are generally the bare minimum required to rent a car overseas:
- A valid driving license from your home country (uh, obvious, right?)
- Your passport
- A valid credit card (in your name)
- An International Driving Permit (IDP), if required
Some other important information to note is that most rental companies have age restrictions (usually a minimum of 21), and drivers under 25 may also face young driver surcharges. F*%$#ers! Some countries or even luxury rentals may have higher minimum age requirements, so always check before booking.
The 6 P’s, all I’m saying.
Should I Get Insurance?
HELL YES!
Always get insurance when renting a car overseas. There is no two ways about it! Things like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) reduce your financial liability if the car is damaged, while theft protection covers loss from, well, theft! The “excess” is the amount you’d have to pay out of your own pocket, which can be high at the counter.
I’ve learned the hard way that overpaying for insurance on arrival isn’t necessary. Booking third-party excess insurance online through sites like iCarhireinsurance can save you a wad of cash and give full peace of mind. You’ll be clocking those solid 8 hours of sleep on the daily!
Just a quick little story for you, if you ever thought against getting insurance. I was on a South Island New Zealand road trip once, and I encountered a minor scrape that could have cost a fortune. But luckily, having insurance saved my bacon, and I had more cash to spend on ski trips and fly fishing on the South Island. Winning!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
When renting a car abroad, there are several hidden costs to watch out for that can add up rather quickly. Being aware of these in advance helps you avoid surprises and keeps your road trip smooth – and affordable! Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for and a few car rental hacks for y’all:
- Fuel policies – full-to-empty plans can be expensive and unfair. Always check the terms!
- Mileage limits – some rentals restrict how far you can drive without extra charges
- One-way fees – dropping the car off at a different location often comes with a surcharge
- Extra driver charges – adding another driver can increase the daily rate
- Cross-border restrictions – taking the car into another country may require permission or extra fees
- Late drop-off fees – returning the car (even slightly late) can result in significant penalties
What If Something Goes Wrong?
Lastly, it’s important to talk about what happens when something goes wrong. My first bit of advice is to stay calm. It’s rarer than you might think and usually simple to resolve. For a breakdown, call the rental company’s emergency number or roadside assistance straight away. If you’re involved in an accident, always take photos, file a police report if needed, and notify the rental company immediately.
Photo: @solowithel
At the end of the day, having the right insurance makes everything easier. It gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on enjoying the journey instead of worrying about mishaps.
What’s it Like Doing a Road Trip Abroad?
Doing a road trip abroad is honestly one of the most freeing ways to travel. You cruise at your own pace, stop whenever and wherever you want, and explore places that are off the usual tourist path. From narrow cobbled streets in Italy to wide highways in the US and scenic, winding roads in Canada, each experience is unforgettable in its own right.
Practical tips also make the journey a whole lot smoother. Pay attention to whether you drive on the left or right, learn the rules for roundabouts, and be ready for toll booths and occasional police checks. It’s all part of the adventure. But with apps like Google Maps or Waze, you’ll always have your navigation lifesaver along with you. Oh, and be sure to keep an eye on local road signs to ensure you follow speed limits, car or entry restrictions, and above all, stay safe.
Parking can also be tricky in some cities, but don’t let that deter you. The flexibility of a car lets you discover hidden gems and spontaneous stops that tours never allow. A road trip gives freedom, adventure, and experiences that are simply impossible when relying on public transport.
Best Countries for Road Trips
Now, when it comes to road tripping abroad, not all destinations are created equal. Some destinations are particularly perfect for driving adventures, offering a mix of stunning landscapes, well-maintained roads, and unique local experiences.
Photo: @willhatton__
These are some of my top recommendations for the best countries to road trip through:
- The USA: The States is ideal for road trips thanks to its vast highways, diverse landscapes from deserts to mountains, and iconic routes like Route 66 that make every drive an adventure.
- New Zealand: New Zealand’s scenic roads wind through mountains, lakes, and coastlines, offering dramatic views at every turn and endless opportunities for adventures like surfing, fishing, mountain biking, snowboarding, hiking, and wine tastings.
- Iceland: Sigh, Iceland. It’s a paradise for road trippers, with ring roads that circle the island, geothermal landscapes, waterfalls, glaciers, and the chance to spot the northern lights on the way.
- Japan: Japan combines smooth highways with an oh-so-charming culture, letting you explore bustling cities, serene temples, and scenic rural landscapes, with efficient and reliable roads.
- Scotland: Scotland’s highlands and lochs make driving a dream, with quiet country roads, historic castles, and breathtaking views that turn every detour into a photo opportunity.
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Grab an eSIM!FAQ’s for Renting a Car for Road Trips
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions I get when it comes to renting a car for road trips abroad:
Final Thoughts on Renting a Car for Road Trips
Right, well, that’s a wrap from me! Hopefully, I haven’t just waffled on and you’ve actually learnt something valuable from this guide. At the end of the day, renting a car for a road trip abroad opens up a world of freedom, flexibility, and adventure. It allows you to explore at your own pace, uncover hidden gems, and create memories that tours can’t offer.
With a bit of preparation, renting a car is easy and safe. Know the requirements for your destination, check if an IDP is needed, get the right insurance, and watch out for hidden fees. Using comparison sites like Discover Cars also helps find the best deals.
Tolls, extra drivers, or cross-border restrictions like to catch you with your pants down! Using navigation apps, observing local driving rules, and planning practical stops ensures a smooth experience wherever you go.
Ultimately, the best route is the one that fits your travel style. Whether you crave wild landscapes, culture, or simply spontaneous adventures, a road trip is the ultimate way to explore, in my humble opinion!
Stay safe out there!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
