| Car hire in Europe can be a unique and | | | | availability, and types of fuel. You may end |
| unforgettable way for Americans to become | | | | up with a Dodge that runs on diesel rather |
| acquainted with the grandeur and history of | | | | than a Renault that runs on regular. |
| Europe. If you are not familiar with the term | | | | |
| "car hire," it simply means car rental or | | | | Always take the supplemental insurance |
| renting a car. Seeing ancient architecture, | | | | offered by the car hire company. A car |
| picturesque villas, vibrant vineyards, and | | | | accident is stressful enough at home, with |
| majestic mountains from the cockpit of a | | | | the police, the insurance company, and the |
| convertible is an exhilarating experience. | | | | other driver. Imagine what a nightmare an |
| Here are some tips and advice for maximizing | | | | accident would be when you are 3,000 miles |
| the fun of your car hire in Europe. | | | | from home and don't even speak the language. |
| | | | |
| When planning your European vacation, | | | | Finally, be prepared for surprises. If you're |
| consider a car hire in your destination | | | | an American who has never traveled abroad, |
| country rather than transportation by train | | | | trying to drive in a country that drives on |
| or bus. Make your reservations far in | | | | the opposite side of the road will probably |
| advance, print all travel and rental | | | | present some difficulty. Likewise, traffic |
| confirmations, and take them with you. Much | | | | circles may throw you for a loop if they are |
| of the "paperwork" can now be done online. | | | | new to you. And don't attempt the German |
| | | | Autobahn on your first day. Take some time to |
| Bring your normal driver's license with you, | | | | learn the local German driving customs, |
| and all your insurance information. Just like | | | | especially those concerning merging and |
| the car rental companies in your own country, | | | | passing other cars. And don't forget to load |
| the ones in Europe need proof that you are an | | | | up on the supplemental insurance. |
| eligible and responsible driver. Find out | | | | |
| what other documentation, if any, you will | | | | A car hire in Europe will be a challenging |
| need for a car hire in your European | | | | but fun vacation you will never forget. Do |
| destination country. | | | | your research, learn the customs, and plan |
| | | | your route. It will be a drive in the country |
| Determine in advance what make and model of | | | | that will last a lifetime. |
| car you will be getting, and whether you can | | | | |
| drive it! If you can't drive a stick shift or | | | | Use the free tips below to start planning |
| manual transmission car, this may limit your | | | | your high-octane vacation abroad today. |
| vehicle choices. Ask about the price, | | | | |