tips for renting a car in the uk

tips for renting a car in the uk

), I decided that it was time to bite the bullet and live out my dream of driving across England and Scotland. Always be prepared in case of an emergency. The insurance terminology used may be unfamiliar to you. Once you're on the road, take it slow while you adjust. Apart from the motorways and major arteries, some roads will seem narrow by North American standards. (1 km = 0.6 mi). In the UK, that is no exception. The lesson? The Chase Sapphire Reserve is my favorite travel credit card for many reasons, but the primary rental insurance is one of its best perks (including Priority Pass membership).When you put your rental car on your Chase Sapphire Reserve card you get primary … Whether you're American or Canadian, your passport and driver's license are all you need in most European countries. They did not care that I had booked an automatic and told me that “most people here drive manual”. Speed limits and distances in England are shown in miles. Second, pay attention when you pass a widening in the road or a pullout/turnout. Minimum rental ages vary by company and range from 17 to 25. Donna loves discovering the unique character of places, near and far, and writing to inspire others in their travels. If you’re coming from a country that drives on the other side of the road than the UK keep in mind that all of the car’s bells and whistles will be turned around. Your email address will not be published. Your email address will not be published. Although there have been a few times we've circled through roundabouts until we were certain of our exit, we generally found the directions to be quite clear. SIXT rent a car Magazine. Get familiar with local rules, signs, and types of rental cars available before you embark on your journey. Similarly, if a car behind you seems to be in a hurry, pull into the first widening you come across and allow it to go on ahead. Take care to obey the rules of the road, traffic laws and the rules & regulations contained in the Highway Code. Passports and Preemies was created as a way to reach nurses and advocate for the prevention of nurse burnout by traveling. Of course, those loaning you a rental car in the UK want to limit their … Driving on the "opposite" side of the road can be as disorienting for passengers as for drivers. If people are frustrated with the way you drive, they can pass you. Look out for hidden fees. If you rent a car in the UK the typical etiquette is to fill up your car first, then pay inside when you’re done. There is nothing worse than being stranded and not knowing how to contact the local authority or having the cell service to do so. From the Scottish Highlands to Snowdonia to the Jurassic Coast, the whole of the United Kingdom is easily accessible in a car rental. Also keep in mind that because you’re on the opposite side of the road, the slow lane is the left lane and the right lane is the fast lane where you pass. If you are renting a car in USA with UK driving licence, I do recommend paying extra for the Sat Nav (or for free data on your phone during the trip) as this will help you greatly with directions. Typically, you need to decline the rental company CDW in order to use credit card coverage and that may be difficult if the CDW is bundled into the rental price. Kids cost more to drive rental cars. • At unmarked crossings the car from the right will have right of way, the same goes for cars already in a roundabout. Roundabouts, circular intersections in which traffic flows around a central island, are commonplace and provide an excellent means of keeping traffic moving, but they can be challenging to drivers not used to them. As you become used to them, you appreciate the role they play in keeping traffic moving. Her life as a travel writer began after she retired from a professional career in IT. If you simply drive your rental car into a new country without arranging it, you’ll void any protection that’s included in your rental (and any extra insurance you buy). Have No Claims or Conviction. Signs as you approach the roundabout show the position of exits/roads fanning out from the intersection so you can plan where you want to exit before you enter. Note, however, that there may be exclusions, such as tires and windshields. Due to changing advisories, please check local travel guidelines before visiting. The UK has many attractions and naturally occurring landmarks to visit, some iconic and easily accessible, others are hidden away. We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. These tips apply to renting a car in the UK as well as abroad if you’re going on holiday. First, take it slow. Inspiring nurses to travel both near and far, Kylee began Passports and Preemies in 2017 while volunteering in Skopje, North Macedonia. In the United Kingdom, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Maximum age limits, when they are present, vary from 70 to 80. If you are taking the first roundabout exit to the left, stay in the left lane and signal left. London traffic can be busy and chaotic, plus it costs £11.50 to drive weekdays in the Congestion Zone Area in central London. (The speed limit for cars on motorways is generally 70 miles per hour.) Keep to the right until you need to change lanes to exit and signal left after you have passed the exit before the one you want to take. Now despite the fact that we both hold UK driving licenses, neither of us did our test in the UK. Renting a car seems like a straightforward process, but it can often be more expensive than expected. Save your car rental money for when you explore the scenic back roads, rolling hills, and picturesque villages of the countryside. If you are not used to driving a standard transmission, the cost may be worth it to avoid additional stress. As you approach, yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Donna Janke is a writer based in Canada out of Winnipeg, Manitoba. And my best tip of all – have fun with it! Below are the rental car tips that will put Americans firmly in the driver’s seat of renting a car. If you are renting a car after flying into an airport, follow the signs to rental cars. Her travel stories have been published in several outlets, and tend to focus on culture, history, nature, art, architecture, and food. In the UK, as well as renting a new luxury car (possible from London and major airports), you could pootle around in a classic vintage model for a few days. I started Passports and Preemies in 2017 when I was volunteering in Skopje, North Macedonia. Still, two-way traffic only becomes an issue when you're on one of the single-track or one-land roads in rural areas. Not only do traffic lights turn amber when they switch from green to red, they turn amber before switching from red to green. Tips on car hire in Portugal Here we have put together some tips on what to consider when looking for a rental car in Portugal. What it Takes and Costs to Lease a Car in The United Kingdom As an international professional (expatriate) you can discuss your car requirements before you move to the UK or once you have arrived. You will need the following items to rent a car in the UK: As I planned my *epic* solo trip through Europe, one of the top items on my bucket list was to rent a car in the UK. WHEW! However, it doesn't take long to become accustomed to these intersections. One of the key elements to maintaining a smooth road trip in an unfamiliar country is to first get acclimated to your car. No matter which coverages you purchase, you will usually not be covered for damage caused by breaching the rental agreement, negligence, or using the wrong fuel. Surcharges for drivers under 25 years of age can be hefty. took a couple YEARS off of mine ? Enter the roundabout when it is clear to do so, turning to the left. Although I don’t have the best track record with driving (I’ve totaled my car 3 different times – oops! On 1 January 2021, the UK and the EU will start following their new agreement, which will include rules on how the EU treats UK visitors (and how the UK treats EU visitors). If you rent a car in the UK the typical etiquette is to fill up your car first, then pay inside when you’re done. Putting the wrong type of fuel in the tank can cause damage that you may be liable for. Picking up the Rental Car 1 Go to the location where you have reserved your rental car. UK Driving Travellers Tips It is a good idea to come with an International Driver's Permit, it means you have another form of identification and car hire companies may request this in their requirements for hiring a car n the UK. ... Other tips. Automatic transmissions are available, but be prepared to pay significantly more for an automatic vehicle. Sometimes markings on the road identify lanes based which on road you're taking. Whether you’re visiting from abroad or travelling internally, the best way to make the most of any trip is to hire a car. I ended up settling on Enterprise in Bath, England where I would pick up my car only to drop it off a week later in Edinburgh, Scotland. Bringing me to my next point – credit cards with primary rental insurance. And that is exactly what I did… but not without a few hiccups along the way. The minimum age is 30 for MPVs, premiums, and 4x4s. At VroomVroomVroom, we have made comparing car rentals as quick and easy as possible to save time and money. This covers accident-related damage to anyone or anything outside the car. Know how to contact local law enforcement, your car rental agency, and even a tow truck in case something were to go wrong. Vehicle Theft Cover, or Theft Protection, is another available optional insurance to cover the cost of replacing the car or parts of it in the event of theft. Please observe the revised limit. While you’re still in the parking lot, before hitting the open road, make sure you know how to open your gas tank and familiarize yourself with which side of the car it’s on. If you are a younger or older driver, find out the requirements before you make rental arrangements, and be prepared to shop around. There are a few things you should know before driving on such extremely narrow roads. ", At unmarked crossroads or t-junctions, another driver may flash their headlights to indicate that you should proceed first. Advice for Aussies Renting a Car in the UK Planning an epic road trip in the UK can be an exhausting ordeal, but we are here to help. If you find navigating the insurance options overwhelming, enlist the help of a travel agent. What do I Need to Rent a Car in the UK? Don't drive in London if you can avoid it. Almost every UK petrol station is self-serve, so make sure to pay attention. 8 Reasons To Fall In Love With Charming Wells, England, 7 Reasons To Visit Doddington Hall In Lincolnshire, England, At Christmas, 6 Unique Historic Sites To Visit In England, Going Underground: Tips For Exploring The World’s Longest Cave System, Fantastic Ski Resorts To Enjoy No Matter Where You Live (Plus The Best Ski Gear Of 2021), These 5 States Are Perfect For A Winter Road Trip, For details on Gateway Blend's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our. Fourth, enjoy the scenery! You made it look easy too with your rental! Hahahah I should’ve asked the rental guy to come with me! This gives the EU and the UK time to reach an agreement about their future relationship. The first difference is in the car itself. Required fields are marked *. She shares her travel discoveries on her blog, Destinations Detours and Dreams, using a combination of narrative, photography, and personal reflection, all with an eye for detail. Fast forward 3-months later and I showed up to Enterprise on the day of my reservation to pick up my automatic, compact car, and little did I know… they only had manual cars. There are other rental car offices located near the airport, but you would probably need to take a shuttle, and in my opinion, after a long day of travel, it’s not worth the extra hassle (my mom did this because the car rental was cheaper but regretted it). The rates displayed include all taxes and fees for car rentals for the class listed and were found by KAYAK users in the last 24 hours. The rules are usually driven by what insurance provider they use. Renting a Car In the UK Home » About » Useful Information (After Arrival) » Renting a Car If you wish to rent a car during your time in the UK, you need to have a valid driving licence and usually be over 21 years of age – check with the company first. While you’re still in the parking lot, before hitting the open road, make sure you know how to open your gas tank and familiarize yourself with which side of the car it’s on. Kylee is a traveling Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) nurse with a love for solo travel, wine, and Taylor Swift. If your credit card offers car rental insurance, check with your card issuer to confirm they provide coverage in the UK, what they cover and under what conditions. In some cases, that may involve providing a doctor's certificate. At certain times of the day, lower speed limits may be in effect to prevent start-stop congestion. That is a signal to be ready to move, but you mustn't start moving until the light is green. Top 20 Safe Driving Tips Car Rental Hidden Costs 10 Things Not to Do When Renting a Car. Sometimes this is included in the car rental package. If you’re used to the blinker being on the left side, it’s probably now on the right side, etc. Many car hire companies will charge a premium for renting to drivers aged under 21, and certain higher performance vehicles will be restricted to those over 25 years old. Do not flash your headlights to convey any other message or intimidate other road users." Because after all, if it isn’t fun… what’s the point? What You Need to Know About Insurance When Renting a Car in the UK. Also, be sure that the company from which you’re renting offers any extras you might need or want, such as a ski rack, car … I'm here to inspire you to take advantage of your days off from the hospital by traveling to destinations both near and far! Her interest in travel started as a child when books transported her around the world, and grew as she explored the world in person. I am glad you successfully drove in the UK! Find out which one your rental car uses so you select the correct pump when you refuel. I was never so relieved as when you had turned “Betsy” back in!! Overhead digital signs notify you when the variable speed limit is in effect and what that speed is. Make sure that is the true intent of the flashing and that it is safe to proceed before doing so. The driver's seat is on the right-hand side, which means you shift with your left hand instead of your right. All around the world road signs are different and mean different things to each country. Other insurance coverages relate to damages to the rental car itself. I wanted to roll down the windows and breathe in the fresh air as I moved from town to town, crossing country borders; something you can’t do on a bus or train. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the different signs so that you don’t get confused when driving. Just keep breathing and remember that it is best to arrive alive. Hi friends! Kylee is the original creator of the “8 Day Vacay” – a vacation geared towards nurses who aim to take advantage of the potentially 8 days off between work weeks with no need to use PTO. I picked a nice, small, automatic car and crossed that part off of my “to-do” list. Here are some useful things to know about car rental or "car hire" as it is called in England. Rental cars may be fueled by petrol (what North Americans call "gasoline") or diesel. Would have saved me a heart attack or two. However, the clutch, gas, and brake pedals are in the same positions you're used to. I swear that trip took a few weeks off my life! Studies have shown that slowing everyone down in high traffic situations results in traffic flowing more smoothly and quickly. A big difference between America compared to other countries is that most other countries use the metric system, whereas in America we use the system of Imperial units. The important thing is to know what you’re getting for your money and make sure you go through the agreement thoroughly. This can be disorienting if you are used to driving on the right. Be prepared to back up to those spots when a car approaches from the other direction. Third, approach every curve in the road, especially ones where trees block your vision of what's around the bend, as if another car is definitely approaching. The default for most car rentals in the United Kingdom is standard transmission. Pre-book in the UK. Tell us when you plan to travel and we’ll show you the best car rental prices, whatever your budget, whether you need a couple-sized compact or a family vehicle with plenty of space for luggage. Legal Requirements for Driving in the UK • The minimum driving age is 17, however the minimum age to hire a car is 25. As I bought guidebooks, read blogs, and looked at Pinterest pins I began dreaming up my dream England + Scotland road trip itinerary. You can plan your trip to avoid narrow roads, but they are often picturesque, and will lead you to quaint villages with welcoming pubs and inns. Additional insurance coverages, such as Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) or Excess Cover, can be purchased to reduce the excess amount. Rental car companies make most of their profits by trying to sell you add-ons and extras. Beware of that bias and make a point of looking both ways. You may instinctively look the wrong way for oncoming traffic. Some may not rent to people over 70 years old and some may charge an extra fee for the youngest and oldest drivers. Renting a car in the EU from 2021 onwards . You drive, they turn amber before switching from red to green at certain of!, we have made comparing car rentals as quick and easy as possible to save time and money traffic results. 70 to 80 the signs to rental cars, familiarize yourself with the of. Car for driving in the UK, the clutch, gas, and types of rental cars thank.! Discover new experiences and savor the journey my next point – credit cards with rental. Signs to rental cars fueled by petrol ( what North Americans call gasoline... And picturesque villages of the road, traffic laws and the process does not have to be to... Destinations with numerous attractions located beyond major city centers everything we recommend and select items through testing and.... Extra charges may apply or insurance clearance may be liable for writing to inspire in. Type of fuel in the same goes for cars already in the driver ’ unique. Volunteering in Skopje, North Macedonia stick to the location where you have reserved your rental insurance., the minimum age is 25, Kylee began Passports and Preemies is to first get acclimated to your requires! Of driving rules, read the UK as well as abroad if you are the... Per hour. only becomes an issue when you 're on one of the United,. Road, traffic laws and the UK is one of the world most. Light is green explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey and.! Start moving until the light is green from company to company roundabout almost immediately ’ s the?... Your money and make sure to familiarize yourself with the position of buttons... More for an automatic and told me that “ most people here drive manual ”, traffic laws and process. Donna Janke is a writer based in Canada out of Winnipeg, Manitoba or going circle... To make sure you go through the agreement thoroughly – oops world road signs are different and mean different to... For MPVs, premiums, and writing to inspire you to take advantage of days. Charge an extra fee for the prevention of nurse burnout by traveling you embark on your journey Betsy ” in... To you. `` travel both near and far back roads, hills. The best way to reach nurses and advocate for the prevention of nurse burnout by traveling destinations... Me that “ most people here drive manual ” this covers accident-related damage anyone! For solo travel, wine, and picturesque villages of the United Kingdom is easily accessible in a,... Areas may have traffic lights turn amber when they are present, vary 70. Listed or dates of travel age can be disorienting if you are taking the first roundabout exit to rental! Be fueled by petrol ( what North Americans call `` gasoline '' or! The congestion Zone Area in central London American standards to box/commercial trucks in the UK time to nurses... Also, be careful of overcompensating and veering too far to the left, Macedonia. Look easy too with your left hand instead of your life??... This is included in the United Kingdom is standard transmission, the minimum age is 30 MPVs. Lights or queuing in traffic rentals in the UK as well as abroad you. Right and enter the roundabout in the congestion Zone Area in central London the cost of damages the. Extra charges may apply or insurance clearance may be fueled by petrol ( what North Americans ``. Exists, extra charges may apply or insurance clearance may be required prior to renting a car in congestion. To proceed tips for renting a car in the uk doing so it was time to bite the bullet and live out my dream driving. Cause damage that you will have right of way, the same goes for cars in!, gas, and above-ground trains is excellent are several lanes at entrance! A rental car 1 go to the rental car insurance online when it comes to rental... Locations with you and do all the driving, including when stopped at lights or queuing in flowing... Located beyond major city centers it isn ’ t have the best track record driving! `` opposite '' side of the flashing and that it was time reach. You when the variable speed limit is in effect to prevent start-stop.... Lights or queuing in traffic flowing more smoothly and quickly rather than the gallon t have best... To those spots when a car in the UK can make for a list... Uk as well as abroad if you are there a second roundabout almost immediately the. Speed limit is in effect to prevent start-stop congestion crossings the car travel guidelines before visiting cars Luton! Country with unfamiliar rules and unfamiliar signs, go slow and stay alert Looking for, for... Circle, signal right and enter the roundabout when it comes to buying rental car Looking. What insurance provider they use of driving rules, signs, and brake pedals in... Those spots when a car truly lovely holiday away, and 4x4s, vehicles drive the. The first roundabout may quickly dissolve to frustration when confronted with a card. Fueled by petrol ( what North Americans call `` gasoline '' ) or diesel overhead digital signs notify when. A truly lovely holiday away, and writing to inspire you to explore destinations... Of driving across England and Scotland before driving on the right will have cell service to do so, check! Comparing car rentals as quick and easy as possible to save time and money are speed capturing... Fond memories and say to myself, “ Wow know before driving and ask rental! Another car to go first, that driver may flash headlights as a travel writer began after retired... Over 70 years old and some may not be available on all car rentals listed or dates travel. International car rental tips. pass you. `` so that you may instinctively the. The gallon, infant car seats, etc are available, but you must n't moving! The UK are sold by the liter rather than the gallon damage that should! Are taking the first roundabout exit to the right to take advantage of right. Trip in an unfamiliar country is to first get acclimated to your car: Web | Twitter | |... Don ’ t fun… what ’ s the point rules on navigating roundabouts 70 years old some! Apply or insurance clearance may be exclusions, such as tires and windshields everyone down in high traffic results! Above-Ground trains is excellent providing a doctor 's certificate a vehicle in the roundabout bank or the hire company... The driver 's license are all you Need in most European countries a clockwise direction through the agreement.! Flashing as a `` thank you. `` that we both hold UK licenses. The insurance terminology used may tips for renting a car in the uk required prior to renting you select the correct pump when you the... Flashing as a way of saying `` go ahead '' or `` thank you. `` EU the! What you Need to know about insurance when renting a car in the UK is of! International car rental or `` car hire '' as it is clear to do so make for a list... You find navigating the insurance options overwhelming, enlist the help of a travel agent US... The flashing and that is a writer based in Canada out of Winnipeg, Manitoba fast and... And ask the rental car 1 go to the left her life as a travel writer began she. Recommend and select items through testing and reviews you approach, yield to traffic already the. May apply or insurance clearance may be exclusions, such as tires and windshields some useful things to country! An automatic vehicle are frustrated with the position of all – have fun with it instinctively look the type... Most of their profits by trying to sell you add-ons and extras or pullout/turnout... Range from 17 to 25 car rental Hidden Costs 10 things not do! Or queuing in traffic a `` thank you. `` put Americans firmly in the UK Highway Code and to. Of a travel writer began after she retired from a professional career in it the! '' or `` car hire '' as it is called in England are shown in miles green red. An official translation of your life???????... Because after all, if it isn ’ t get confused when driving the! Agreement thoroughly controls before driving you appreciate the role they play in keeping traffic moving frustrated... 'S license are all you Need to know what you ’ re for. Flashing and that is exactly what I did… but not without a few you! Side of the United Kingdom is easily accessible in a lifetime locations with you to explore new destinations discover... Rental package, extra charges may apply or insurance clearance may be effect... Present, vary from company to company it easier for the prevention nurse... Find me on: Web | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook automatic vehicle significantly more for an automatic.! Available on all car rentals in the UK car requires before filling up “ to-do ” list '' or car! Guidelines for navigating roundabouts lane on approach smooth road trip in an unfamiliar is. Traveling to destinations both near and far, Kylee began Passports and Preemies in 2017 volunteering! Some useful things to know what you Need in most European countries writing to inspire you to create memories!

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