Tips for moving around

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BLOGBUDGET BLOG

1/13/20251 min read

Tips for moving

around

HOW & WHERE

Renting a car can make your travels more flexible and convenient, but whether it’s the best choice depends on where you’re going. From smooth highways in Europe to bumpy roads in developing countries, knowing the local context is essential for making the right decision. Here’s a guide to help you choose wisely, including tips on insurance, drivers, and alternative transport options.

1. When Renting a Car can

Make Sense

Europe

  • Best for: Exploring smaller towns, countryside, or regions with limited public transport (e.g., Tuscany, Scottish Highlands).

  • Why: Well-maintained roads and good signage make driving easy, plus compact rental cars are ideal for narrow streets in historic areas.

  • Insurance Tip: Basic insurance is usually sufficient, but opt for full coverage if driving in rural or mountainous areas.

United States and Canada

  • Best for: Road trips, national parks, or suburban areas where public transport is scarce.

  • Why: The vast distances and car-friendly infrastructure make renting a car practical and often essential outside major cities.

  • Insurance Tip: Use credit card benefits if they include rental car insurance, but always confirm what’s covered.

Australia and New Zealand

  • Best for: Scenic drives (e.g., Great Ocean Road, New Zealand’s South Island) and remote areas where public transport is limited.

  • Why: Roads are generally well-maintained, and self-driving is a popular way to explore the natural beauty.

  • Insurance Tip: Consider full insurance, especially for gravel roads or if you’re venturing into remote regions.

2. When Renting a Car Is

Not the Best Option

Sub-Saharan Africa (eg, Congo, Kenya)

  • Why Avoid It: Poor road conditions, limited infrastructure, and high risks of breakdowns make driving challenging. Hiring a car with a driver or using local transportation is often safer.

  • What to Do Instead: Use local taxi services, Uber (in major cities), or hire a car with a professional driver through a trusted company.

South Asia (e.g., India, Pakistan)

  • Why Avoid It: Chaotic traffic, unpredictable driving conditions, and cultural differences in road etiquette make self-driving stressful for visitors.

  • What to Do Instead: Opt for ridesharing apps like Uber in cities or hire a driver for intercity travel. It’s affordable and far more convenient.

Major Cities in Latin America (e.g., São Paulo, Mexico City)

  • Why Avoid It: Congestion, aggressive driving, and limited parking make renting a car impractical.

  • What to Do Instead: Use local taxis, Uber, or public transport. Many cities have affordable and efficient metro systems.

Island Destinations (Eg, Bali, Maldives)

  • Why Avoid It: Narrow roads, unpredictable traffic, and lack of parking make cars unnecessary.

  • What to Do Instead: Use scooters, bikes, or hire a driver for day trips. On smaller islands, walking or local taxis are often sufficient.

3. Tips for Choosing some

Car Rental Options

  • Know the Local Driving Rules: Research road conditions, speed limits, and whether your home license is valid or if you’ll need an international driving permit.

  • Choose the Right Vehicle: Opt for a small car in cities with tight parking spaces or a 4x4 in areas with rough terrain (e.g., Iceland or rural Africa).

  • Read the Fine Print: Some rentals have mileage limits or restrictions on crossing borders. Ensure the contract matches your plans.

4. Where to Get Insurance

  • Full Insurance is Essential In:

    • Countries with unpredictable driving conditions (e.g., Mexico, South Africa).

    • Remote areas where roadside assistance might take time.

    • Regions prone to extreme weather (e.g., Iceland, with gravel roads and strong winds).

  • Basic Insurance May Be Enough In:

    • Developed countries with good infrastructure (e.g., most of Europe, the U.S., and Australia).

    • Short-term rentals in urban areas with minimal driving risks.

  • Credit Card Insurance: Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance. If it does, you can save money by declining the rental agency’s coverage, but confirm what’s included and excluded.

5. When It’s Better to Hire

a Driver or Use some Local

Transport

  • Hire a Driver In:

    • Countries with challenging driving conditions (e.g., Vietnam, Ethiopia).

    • Places where hiring a driver is cost-effective, like Southeast Asia or some parts of Africa.

  • Use Local Transport or Uber In:

    • Cities with reliable and cheap ridesharing apps (e.g., Uber in Cape Town, Bolt in Eastern Europe).

    • Destinations with efficient public transport systems (e.g., Japan, Switzerland).

6. Final Considerations

  • Think About Parking: In dense cities like Tokyo or Paris, parking is scarce and expensive. If you must drive, book accommodations with included parking.

  • Consider Fuel Costs: In some regions, like Europe, fuel can be expensive. Factor this into your budget when deciding whether to rent.

  • Plan Your Route: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to familiarize yourself with routes and road conditions before hitting the road.

Renting a car is a fantastic way to explore certain parts of the world, but it’s not always the best option. Consider the local context, road conditions, and alternative transportation options before making your decision. When renting, prioritize safety and convenience by choosing the right insurance and vehicle for your needs.

Happy travels! 🚗

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