Guide to cross-border car rentals
Rental agreements and restrictions
Before planning your cross-border trip, it’s essential to review your rental agreement for any restrictions. While not all car rental agencies permit cross-border travel, Autowill Rent a Car allows you to travel to several neighboring countries, including Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Hungary, Serbia, and Albania. However, there is an additional cross-border fee, so ensure that your rental agreement reflects the countries you intend to visit.
Vehicle requirements
Ensure your rental car meets the requirements for driving in the countries you plan to visit. For instance, some countries require vignettes or toll stickers, such as Slovenia and Austria. These vignettes need to be purchased at the border before entering the respective country, as Autowill Rent a Car does not provide them.
Protective packages for cross-border travel
Understanding cross-border protection
When traveling across borders, it’s crucial to have the correct permissions. At Autowill Rent a Car, purchasing a cross-border card (CBC) is necessary if you plan to travel outside of Croatia. This card grants you permission to drive in neighboring countries. Without this permission, even if you have a comprehensive protective package like L, your coverage may not be valid if an incident occurs outside of Croatia.
Comprehensive protection
Autowill Rent a Car offers various protective packages that can be contracted separately or as part of a package.
These include:
- CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Reduces the User's obligation to paying the deductible, except in the event of damage to the lower part of the vehicle (tires, rims, tire caps, etc.), vehicle interior, and glass, in which case the User must reimburse Autowill Rent a Car for the full repair amount in addition to the deductible.
- SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver): Exempts the User from paying the deductible, except for damage to the lower part of the vehicle, interior, and glass, where full reimbursement is required.
- WUG (Wheels, Undercarriage, and Glass): Exempts the User from liability for damage to the lower part of the vehicle, tires, rims, tire caps, and glass. However, WUG does not cover damage to the interior of the vehicle.
- TP (Theft Protection): Limits the User’s liability in case of vehicle theft to the deductible.
- PAI (Personal Accident Insurance): Provides coverage for the driver and passengers in case of accidents, covering death and disability as prescribed by the insurance company.
- KPD (Key, Plate, Document Protection): Covers the loss of keys, documents, and vehicle registration plates.
- FI (Fire Insurance): Covers damages related to vehicle fire.
Protective packages
- S package: Includes CDW and TP.
- M package: Includes SCDW, CDW, TP, and PAI.
- L package: Includes CDW, TP, SCDW, WUG, and PAI.
- XL package: Includes CDW, TP, SCDW, WUG, PAI, KPD, and FI.
Each of these packages provides different levels of coverage. For example, with the L package and a valid cross-border card, you are fully covered for incidents in neighboring countries. However, without the CBC, even the most comprehensive package would not be valid if traveling outside Croatia.
Additional protection
Consider upgrading to a higher-level protective package for added peace of mind. This can include coverage for specific items like tires and windshields, personal accident protection, and roadside assistance.
Green card
A green card is an international insurance document that proves your rental car is insured in countries outside of Croatia. Most rental agencies, including Autowill Rent a Car, provide this document for the vehicle. Always confirm and request one if it's not automatically included.
Best practices for cross-border car rentals
Plan your route
Research and plan your route in advance, considering border crossings and the specific requirements for each country. Be aware of potential delays, especially at borders like the Montenegro crossing near Dubrovnik, where travelers can experience long wait times. Additionally, if you plan to take ferries, especially to islands, be prepared for possible delays and crowded conditions. It’s not uncommon for travelers to wait several hours for a ferry, particularly during peak times. Please note that there is a separate ferry fee required if you plan to take the vehicle on a ferry to the islands.
Check traffic rules
Familiarize yourself with the traffic rules and regulations of the countries you will be visiting. Speed limits, road signs, and driving customs can vary significantly.
Have the right documents
Carry all necessary documents, including your rental agreement, driver’s license, passport, green card, and any additional protection package papers. Ensure your documents are easily accessible at border crossings.
Emergency contacts
Know the emergency contact numbers for each country you visit. Additionally, keep the contact details of Autowill Rent a Car handy in case you need assistance.
Conclusion
Renting a car in Croatia and driving to neighboring countries offers a unique and flexible way to explore the region. By understanding the best practices, securing the appropriate protective packages, and following these tips, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable cross-border road trip. With Autowill Rent a Car, you can confidently enjoy your journey, knowing you have reliable support and a well-maintained vehicle for your adventure.
