Which Car Hire Companies Allow Cross Border Travel
When planning a trip, it's important to consider whether you'll be driving into another country. Although on the surface it may seem like a simple matter of crossing a border, there are many rules and regulations that vary by country, and even by car rental company. In this article, we'll discuss which car hire companies allow cross border travel and the requirements you'll need to know before embarking on your journey.
Why is Cross Border Travel Restricted?
Cross border travel is restricted because of the different laws, insurance policies, and driving practices in different countries. Car rental companies often have to pay additional fees for allowing their vehicles to be driven across borders, and these fees can vary depending on the country. Some countries also require paperwork to be filed in advance to allow foreign cars into their territory.
Additionally, insurance policies may vary by country, with some countries having higher minimum requirements for coverage. Car rental companies need to ensure that their vehicles meet the minimum coverage requirements of the country in which they will be driven. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines, legal penalties, and even jail time.
Which Car Hire Companies Allow Cross Border Travel?
Most major car rental companies allow cross border travel, but there are specific rules and requirements that vary by company. Here is a breakdown of some of the most popular car hire companies and their policies:
Hertz
Hertz allows cross border travel to most European countries, as well as some non-European countries. However, there are some restrictions depending on the pick-up location of the vehicle. In addition, Hertz requires renters to purchase additional insurance coverage for cross border travel, which can be expensive.
Avis
Avis allows cross border travel to most European countries, with some restrictions depending on the time of year and the pick-up location of the vehicle. However, Avis requires renters to purchase additional insurance coverage for cross border travel, which can be expensive.
Enterprise
Enterprise allows cross border travel to most European countries, as well as some non-European countries. However, there are some restrictions depending on the pick-up location of the vehicle. In addition, Enterprise requires renters to purchase additional insurance coverage for cross border travel, which can be expensive.
Budget
Budget allows cross border travel to most European countries, with some restrictions depending on the time of year and the pick-up location of the vehicle. However, Budget requires renters to purchase additional insurance coverage for cross border travel, which can be expensive.
National
National allows cross border travel to most European countries, as well as some non-European countries. However, there are some restrictions depending on the pick-up location of the vehicle. In addition, National requires renters to purchase additional insurance coverage for cross border travel, which can be expensive.
What Are the Requirements for Cross Border Travel?
Before embarking on your cross border journey, it's important to be aware of the requirements and restrictions of your car hire company and the country you'll be driving into. Here are some of the most common requirements:
Additional Insurance Coverage
Most car rental companies require renters to purchase additional insurance coverage for cross border travel. This coverage is designed to protect the rental car in case of accidents, damages, thefts, or other incidents that may occur outside of the renter's home country. The cost of this coverage can vary depending on the company and the country of travel.
International Driver's Permit
Some countries require drivers to have an International Driver's Permit (IDP) in addition to their regular driver's license. An IDP is a translated and standardized version of a driver's license that is recognized in over 150 countries. It can be obtained in person from the driver's local motor vehicle administration.
Vehicle Inspection
Before allowing their vehicles to travel across borders, car rental companies may require an inspection to ensure that the vehicle meets the minimum requirements of the destination country. This may include checking the brakes, lights, tires, and emissions.
Paperwork
Some countries require specific paperwork to be filed before allowing foreign cars into their territory. This may include visas, permits, or customs declarations. It's important to research the requirements of your destination country in advance to avoid any delays or legal penalties.
Conclusion
Cross border travel can be a great way to explore foreign countries and experience new cultures. However, it's important to be aware of the restrictions, requirements, and additional costs that come with renting a car for cross border travel. By researching your car hire company's policies and your destination country's requirements in advance, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.