Travel Guide
Renting a Car Overseas as a Canadian Traveler
Renting a car outside Canada usually runs smoothly once you know what the counter is going to ask for.
Renting a car outside Canada usually runs smoothly once you know what the counter is going to ask for.
Book ahead, particularly in peak season — automatic transmissions and larger vehicles go first outside North America. At the counter, have your passport, your provincial license, an IDP translation document, and the card used for booking ready to hand over.
Insurance trips up more travelers than anything else. Base rates abroad often include only minimal liability coverage, with damage waivers sold as an add-on. Check what your Canadian auto policy or credit card benefits already cover before you go, since many domestic policies don't extend overseas by default.
Walk the car with a staff member before you drive off and photograph any existing damage. Ask directly about fuel policy, toll handling, and drop-off fees, since these vary more by country than almost anything else in the process.