What do I need to know in preparing to rent a car for an international road trip in the EU [Prague->Munich->Innsbruck->Vienna->Budapest->Prague] [closed]

What do I need to know in preparing to rent a car for an international road trip in the EU [Prague->Munich->Innsbruck->Vienna->Budapest->Prague] [closed] - Frustrated female driver in white t shirt and jeans sitting on ground near damaged car with hands on head during car travel in sunny summer day

I am planning a road trip across 4 countries with a rental car from Prague. I plan to cover Munich, Innsbruck, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest, Gyor along the way and come back to Prague to end my trip.

Do different car rental companies have different rules about driving their cars into foreign countries? Are there any restrictions on applied rental cars for border crossings ? I've read I might need to buy separate insurance if I want to take rental car to Eastern Europe; are the 4 countries mentioned here-in part of Central Europe or Eastern Europe and if I would require a separate insurance in this case ?



Best Answer

  • We cannot suggest specific companies on this board.
  • Yes, there are restrictions, but they mostly apply going eastward. Going westward and then returning should be easier. Insurance requirements depend on the specific company.



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What do I need to know in preparing to rent a car for an international road trip in the EU [Prague->Munich->Innsbruck->Vienna->Budapest->Prague] [closed] - Man Driving Car during Day
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How do I prepare my car for a cross country road trip?

Use this car care checklist to ensure your vehicle is ready for summer travel.
  • Check tires and tire pressure. ...
  • Listen to and feel the brakes. ...
  • Secure and test the battery. ...
  • Top off engine oil and other fluids. ...
  • Replace wiper blades and replenish windshield cleaner. ...
  • Check belts and hoses. ...
  • Keep the AC running cool.


  • What is the best way to prepare for a road trip?

    A checklist to prepare your car for a long road trip:
  • Check your tires.
  • Test your lights.
  • Get a tune-up for your car.
  • Learn the car's features.
  • Test your brakes.
  • Check the A/C.
  • Plan ahead, renew all your documents.
  • Pack the essentials.


  • Can you rent a car and drive all over Europe?

    In Europe, car hire companies typically allow renters to drive their vehicles across international borders into neighbouring countries. However, you may have to pay a cross border fee in order to drive the car abroad.

    What do I need to drive a rental car in Europe?

    Passports, Driver's Licenses, and International Driving Permits. Whether you're American or Canadian, your passport and driver's license are all you need in most European countries. However, some countries also require an International Driving Permit (IDP).



    Europe Road Trip - Driving Rules and How to Rent a Car in Europe - For Indian Travelers




    Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

    Images: Gustavo Fring, Elle Hughes, Elijah O'Donnell, Erik Mclean