Tips for International Driving Safety

The first thing to do is to scope out your locale. Map out the location of the airport and the rental car agency, as not all are on-airport. Most rental car agencies will provide an airport shuttle. Learn how to get from the rental car agency to your first destination, which is frequently your hotel.

Keep in mind, that first time on the road can be the scariest, so don’t rush out of the rental car location until you’re comfortable in your vehicle. Make all the adjustments you need and if it’s equipped, set up the navigation system before leaving the parking lot. If you’re relying on your phone, it’s important to remember that your cell service may not be reliable in some locations so take a screenshot of the map in the event you lose service. Another option is to rely on paper maps, which can literally save your trip in a remote area and can make it easier for someone to help you navigate.

Preview all your routes before you put the rental car in drive. Give yourself time to adapt to any language barriers and know the important words so you can understand the signage and any of the interior vehicle accessories.

Not all countries drive on the opposite side of the road, but be ready in case your rental car does have the steering wheel on the opposite side. It can take some time to get used to the differing perspective. We want you to be secure and confident before you begin your travels! Some countries require you to have an International Driving Permit. Check with the embassy of the country you are visiting to see if that is required BEFORE you go. Other countries don’t even require licenses, so do your research as all countries are different.

If you get your discount rental car from Fox, visit our Policies page for the country in which you are renting. Our policies, can help prevent any miscommunications or concerns before you arrive but as stated above, it’s paramount that you research the country’s rules in addition to our policies, as ours are not exhaustive or all-inclusive.

Review your insurance before traveling, and it’s recommended you speak with your personal insurance agent in addition to considering the requirements of the country in which you will be driving. Fox insurance policies are available on the website so you can decide in advance. There are toll roads in other countries, so inquire in advance and be prepared to make the payment with the required method.

Vehicles aren’t all automatic, so you may need to request an automatic transmission or know how to drive a manual transmission. Be careful if you are uncomfortable with that, as not all countries have smooth and/or paved roads. Driving on a bumpy road where you are driving on the opposite side is not the time to practice your driving skills or learn it entirely.

In the United States, we travel with the term “miles,” but most other countries go by “kilometers,” so be sure you know in advance so you can plan your arrival times accordingly. You may be used to driving where the random wild animal crosses in front of you, but some countries the wildlife may be a new variety. Be prepared, don’t approach wild animals and drive slowly enough to deal with surprises. Last but not least, read through additional driver policies carefully to ensure you and anyone who may be driving your vehicle are adequately covered.

In summary, research before you leave and plan in advance if you need an International Driving Permit, which does take some time and require photos and a fee. Don’t get caught unaware, give yourself a lot of time to get from one place to another and stay safe!