How to Compare Car Rentals in Europe

How to Compare Car Rentals in Europe thumbnail
Rental cars are a great way to see Europe

Rental car travel has several clear advantages over traditional rail travel in Europe, including: reduced hassle when transporting luggage, leaving when you want to and not on a schedule, exploring the areas where trains do not go, and always finding a seat next to your party.

  1. European Rental Car Companies

    • Taxis are not necessary when you have a rental car.
      Taxis are not necessary when you have a rental car.

      There are large European Rental companies (Sixt, Europcar, Maggiore) which have locations in just about every location you may travel. While these companies sometimes offer excellent rates, they tend to sell out faster than non-European companies, and in high season it is possible that these companies may have separate, higher rates for non-EU citizens.

    Non-European Car Rental Companies in Europe

    • Explore the countryside with a rental
      Explore the countryside with a rental

      All major U.S. rental car companies offer services throughout Europe, although some have locations only in the most popular of destinations and in the busiest of airports and city centers. If reserving with a U.S. rental company, make sure there are locations where you need them.

    Compare the Rates

    • Rates vary greatly from one company to another
      Rates vary greatly from one company to another

      Any of the major travel websites can give you a good idea of individual rates and availability. Once you know the rates, use the company website for whichever you select to book as the rates are almost always lower this way. Popular bidding sites can sometimes deliver lower rates if you are either picking up or dropping off a car at a major airport.

    Tips for Car Rentals in Europe

    • Be smart and save
      Be smart and save

      Holders of major U.S. credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) may waive insurance on their rental when paying for the entire rental cost with said card and enjoy free insurance coverage.

      Try every company for one-way rental rates, as they vary greatly by season and even date.

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  • Photo Credit voiture bleue image by Uolir from Fotolia.com belfast image by nathalie diaz from Fotolia.com Country lane in Tuscany region of Italy. image by Robert Crum from Fotolia.com euros image by Claudio Calcagno from Fotolia.com credit card and hand image by Warren Millar from Fotolia.com

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