5 Essentials for Renting a Car Abroad

As both a travel writer and someone who has lived in Europe twice (plus a brief stint in Asia), I have been driving and renting cars around the world for years—I’ve even done so on five continents. I’ve driven through Australia’s Red Centre, raced on an ice track in the Italian Alps, and solo-road tripped through the Balkans—and I will always count passing my German driver’s license exam on the first try as one of my crowning achievements as a driver. 

Over the years, I’ve learned so much about renting cars and driving internationally. For instance, Germans do not mess around with road rules (although I will always struggle with the concept of rechts vor links, or right before left), and the cheaper rental can sometimes end up being the most expensive option (as problems will likely arise during your drive).

Whether learning zipper laws to drive on the Autobahn, being mindful of frequent speed cameras, or renting automatic cars (looking at you, Albania), each experience has done its job to make me a better driver. Driving internationally so often also taught me how to be a more prepared traveler, and now, regardless of which country I’m driving through, I always bring the same five road trip essentials with me to make sure I’m safe and prepared.

Travelon Passport Holder

International driving permits aren’t small, but they are remarkably easy to lose. While AAA sells a great tri-fold protector that helps protect the permit from stains and tears, I like the idea of keeping it zipped up in a place I know I won’t forget it—like alongside my passport. This RFID-blocking holder zips closed and has space for your passport, ID card, credit cards, and some local currency (bills and change), which is always a good idea to carry while driving. Throw in an Apple AirTag for extra peace of mind so you can keep an eye on where it is at all times.

Retractable 6-in-1 Multi-charging Cable

Just like when renting a car domestically, you never really know what you’re going to get with an international rental car. Since there’s no real telling what the phone plug-in situation will be in the car, it’s smart to bring one cable that has multiple ports, just in case you wind up with a USB but really need a USB-C—and vice versa. I like this retractable version because it also adapts to whatever car you end up in (so no more dealing with a cable that’s too long or too short). I also always recommend traveling with a travel bank just in case there’s a reason you’re unable to charge your phone in the car.

Universal Car Mount Phone Holder

Nearly 100,000 Amazon reviewers gave this classic car phone mount a five-star rating, and it’s easy to see why: it’s a breeze to install and highly dependable to keep your phone secure and in eyesight. It attaches to any windshield with the suction cup and can be quickly removed without leaving any marks behind. Plus, you can lock and unlock your phone with one hand—and it easily adjusts for the right fit that won’t drop your phone. It even has a telescopic arm to bring your phone closer if needed. There are newer models available with magnetic mounting systems for MagSafe-enabled phones that are convenient to use, but this tried-and-true holder works for all types of phones.

Parking Timer Disc With Ice Scraper

Many cities in Europe have blue zones, which are timed parking lots that are free to use for a limited amount of time. To use one, you’ll need one of these blue parking discs visibly placed in your windshield, or else you risk getting towed or fined. Simply set the time you arrived (note: ankunftszeit is German for “arrival time”) on the little device, place it in your dashboard, and park as long as that particular blue zone allows. Even if the country you’re driving through doesn’t have blue zones, this handy little card doubles as an ice scraper, so it can still be put to good use.

Car First Aid Kit

Although some rental car companies include a safety kit in the rental, it’s not guaranteed. I like traveling with a lightweight safety kit that takes up minimal space in my luggage and has emergency essentials, like a first aid blanket, medical supplies, scissors, and more. This kit also does double duty as it will come in handy during your trip, too, in case of any minor scrapes, bumps, or bruises.

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