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Renting a Car Abroad
Former Member
Posts: 1,876,323 The Mix Honorary Guru
Anyone done it? got any horror stories? words of advice, etc? Thinking of doing it in NZ but not sure.
Post edited by JustV on
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Make sure you read the small print and take photos of any existing damage before you leave the rental office.
but just thought i'd add that i wouldnt worry about driving over here because i've been doing it, and its pretty alright, they drive on the same side of the road as the UK and there are only a few small differences in road rules so its not too tricky. :] quite expensive though from what i can gather, to hire one - i'd check out a fair few places and compare prices.
It sounds kinda dodgey to me.
if they wait 3 months to send back your despoit they know you're well out of the country and can claim anything knowing you won't go back to kick up a fuss.
I've found a chap driving from north to south island but very quickly cos he's only moving and not sightseeing, and may catch a lift with him and after seeing what the road are like then decide to rent or not myself.
Oh and also you need to factor in the cost of taking the car on the Interislander as well.
Read the small print of all the paper work - make sure you meet their criteria i.e. age etc and length of time you must have had your licence.
Check out these: http://www.wicked-campers.co.nz/pricing
Sometimes a camper is cheaper than a car - particularly if you factor in hostel / hotel costs.
Check for previous damage and take photos and document it.
Drive sensibly and adhere to all local rules i.e. speed limits and don't drink and drive - some other countries can be much harsher than the UK with things like this.
I've driven abroad before, numerous times - mostly in Europe, but so far have enjoyed it.
Most reputable places just take your card details and won't actually charge your card. I think i'd be worried that they want to 'hold on' to your deposit.
You might be better off paying a couple of pounds more per day for something more honest. If something sounds too good to be true...
Only let those who are insure to drive, drive.
In fact the biggest thing was to make sure you didn't drive on a toll road by mistake and not pay the fee, something you have to be very careful of in some places.