Can I cross into another country with a rental car?

Article

Travelling with a rental car offers flexibility, comfort, and freedom when exploring new places. However, crossing international borders with a rental car can raise many questions: Can I take a rental car into another country? What are the requirements and restrictions? The answer is not as simple as it may seem. But don’t worry! CarJet is here to guide you through everything you need to know about crossing into another country with a rental car.

Is it possible to cross to another European country with a rental car?

Whether it is possible to cross into another country with a rental car depends on the policies of each rental company. Some companies allow free movement between certain countries, others charge a cross border fee, and some restrict or completely prohibit taking the car outside the national territory where it was picked up. Additional limitations, such as taking the car to islands or using ferries, are also specified in the general conditions. Remember, you can always find this information in the Terms and Conditions of each offer.

What is a surcharge for taking the car to another country?

A cross-border surcharge is an additional charge that some car rental companies apply when the car is used outside the country where it was initially rented. This charge covers various additional costs and risks associated with using the car in another country.

It is important to carefully check the rental company's policies before planning an international trip with a rented car. This includes verifying whether border crossings are allowed, what supplements or additional charges apply, and what documentation is required to be fully covered and comply with local and company regulations.

How much does it cost to take a rental car to another country?

The fee for taking a rental car to another country can vary significantly depending on the country, the rental company, and the specific destination. Typically, the price to take the car to another country is around €50. Some companies may apply a daily rate, for example, €12 with a maximum number of days allowed, or charge more for going to certain countries due to distance or other factors.

Does it cost money to cross borders in Europe?

If you are a European citizen planning a trip to a country within the Schengen Area, it generally will not cost you money to cross borders with your rental car. The Schengen Area is a free movement zone that includes most European Union countries, where there are no regular border controls. This means you can travel freely between Schengen countries without paying tolls or fees at the borders.

However, outside the Schengen Area, such as in some Eastern European countries or the Balkans, there may be tolls or border crossing fees. These costs vary depending on each country and its local policies. Before planning a trip through these regions, it is important to check the specific regulations and associated costs.

What do I need to do to cross the borders of European countries?

If you are a citizen of a country that applies the Schengen Convention, you only need to carry your valid National Identity Card or passport. This will allow you to travel around any Schengen country for a maximum period of 90 days within any 180-day period. Foreign residents in a Schengen state can also travel with their valid travel document and residence permit, respecting the same 90-day limit.

For citizens from outside the Schengen Area, such as those from the United Kingdom, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, and Ukraine, the conditions are stricter. Cyprus and Ireland, while EU members, are outside the Schengen Area and have their own conditions. Citizens from these countries will need a valid travel document, such as a passport, and often a valid visa for the Schengen territory. The passport must be valid for at least three months after the intended date of departure from the Schengen territory and must have been issued within the ten years prior to the date of entry. Visa holders must adhere to the days of stay indicated on their visa, while those who do not require a visa may stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

CarJet finds the best rental car prices across Europe

CarJet is a car hire comparison website that studies thousands of offers from different car hire companies in real time. With CarJet, finding a car is easy peasy; with just one click, you will get the lowest prices, allowing you to choose the car that best suits your needs. CarJet allows you to easily check the conditions of each offer, ensuring you can cross borders without any last-minute setbacks. Millions of customers rely on CarJet for the best car rental deals, so get ready for an adventure across Europe with CarJet and enjoy an unforgettable holiday!