Whether you’re planning a road trip through Croatia‘s breathtaking scenery, visiting Albania‘s ancient landmarks, or experiencing Montenegro‘s natural beauty, renting a car in the Balkans may be an exciting and convenient way to explore the region. There are a many things to keep in mind to ensure an easy and memorable experience. Here’s an excellent suggestion for getting the most off of your Balkan car rental vacation! However, if you choose to rent a car from Rentout app, all these matters are taken in consideration by the app automatically and other matters, tips or information’s are shared in our official communications channels.
- Learn local driving laws and regulations.
Before you start the trip, familiarize yourself with the driving rules and restrictions of the Balkan countries you will be visiting. Every country has different rules for speed limits (usually not more than 90km/h), insurance coverages or parking rules and fees. For example, while most Balkan countries drive on the right side of the road, there are a few exceptions, and understanding these differences might help you avoid fines and ensure a safe trip.
- Check insurance coverage.
When renting a car, it is important to know about your insurance options. Standard coverage may not always cover everything you need, so look into extra insurance choices such as collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection. Make sure you understand the coverage and the related costs. Check to see if your car insurance or credit card covers internationally rentals, this could save you money. That is why, we at Rentout have a partnership with Sigal Uniqa Group Austria in Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia.
- Be Aware of Road Conditions
The Balkans have some of Europe’s most gorgeous drives, although road conditions vary greatly. While major roads and highways are often well-maintained, rural or hilly locations may experience less predictable conditions. Make sure your rental car is suitable for the region you’ll be driving in, and be prepared for any problems, such as limited roads or unexpected weather changes.
- Inspect the Car Thoroughly
Before driving away, check the rental car for any existing damage and get it documented by the rental company. Report any problems immediately to prevent being held responsible for any pre-existing harm. Checking critical equipment such as brakes, lights, and tires may also add to a safer driving experience. On Rentout app, we resolved such matters automatically online with an instant check in and check out process.
- Ensure you understand local parking rules.
Parking rules may vary commonly across the Balkans. Parking in urban areas can be difficult and expensive due to strict parking laws. Look for legal parking locations, follow signs, and be aware of any local parking fees. Some localities may provide paid parking or park-and-ride options, which can be more convenient. Soon you can pay your parking ticket online as well for thousands of parking lots in Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Montenegro.
- Plan Your Route and Navigation
GPS can save lives, but it’s also a good idea to have a backup plan. Consider downloading offline maps or keeping a physical map for backup. Plan your trip ahead of time and be aware of any taxes or delays that may apply along the way. On Rentout, such services can be provided by our Hosts for some extra charges.
- Stay Informed About Local Customs
Understanding local driving rules can greatly improve your experience. For example, drivers in the Balkans may be more aggressive than you’re used to. Stay aware and adapt to local driving rules while following safe driving requirements.
Apart from these basic tips, we want to share some tips from Rentout for renting a car in the Balkans. Here are essential tips to consider before renting a car in the Balkans:
- Always carry your ID. While the legal driving age is 18, some rental companies charge extra for individuals aged 18 to 21.
- Note that many car rental companies do not provide a free cancellation policy. On the contrary, on Rentout you can easily cancel your trip 24/h before it begins without fees.
- Keep the car rental and insurance contract on hand, either physically or on your phone, for potential police verifications or border control.
- If crossing borders, obtain a green card insurance for 15 euros before passing through border control.
- Return the car on time to avoid extra rental charges.
- Third-party liability insurance is often included, but the rental company may demand a security deposit of up to 550 euros if you opt out of additional insurance.
- While third-party liability insurance is typically provided, the rental firm may want a security deposit of up to 550 euros if you opt out of additional insurance.
- Look for rental cars near the airport, as it can be more cost-effective.
- Additional drivers may incur extra charges; be aware of these fees beforehand.
- Refuel the tank before returning the car to avoid potential extra charges.
The daily cost of renting a car in Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, or North Macedonia typically ranges from 20 to 90 euros.
We hope that these suggestions help you have a comfortable and simple car rental experience in the Balkans. At Rentout, we are dedicated to giving you with high-quality rental cars and excellent service, by avoiding you many of the above risks and issues. We will make your trip as enjoyable as possible. If you have issues or need assistance with your rental, please do not hesitate to contact our team. Happy driving and have a wonderful adventure in the lovely Balkan!
