Three things to consider when renting a car on vacation
When going on vacation, you don't want to have trouble renting a vehicle. Such a scenario would leave a sour taste in your mouth. Planning ahead will ensure you book the vehicle you need, enjoy your trip, and leave with good memories rather than nightmares about the car rental.
Did you know that around nine in 10 Americans – 92% – intend to travel this year? Meanwhile, 55% want to travel more this year than last year.
If you're one of the majority planning to enjoy some rest and relaxation this spring, summer, fall, or winter, the sky's the limit. The world offers plenty to experience. So, if you have places to go, people to see, and things to experience, traveling is the perfect way to do just that.
Whether you get in your car and go on an epic road trip, go aboard a cruise ship to explore a specific part of the world, or get on a plane to fly somewhere, you can enjoy some fun alone, with family, or with friends.
You'll want to plan a great itinerary to enjoy the sights and sounds. But unless you take a bunch of taxis or charter a vehicle to get around, you will want to consider renting a car. You can't assume, however, that renting a car in a foreign nation is the same as doing so in the U.S.
It's essential to research ahead of time so you know your options. For one thing, you'll want to rent from a company that takes good care of its fleet. Check out online reviews to find out. A reputable car rental company in any country you visit will use a robust fleet maintenance system to stay on top of routine maintenance and repairs so its vehicles remain safe.
Here are three things to consider when renting a vehicle in a foreign country so you can get around.
1. Driver's License Requirements and International Permits
Before renting a vehicle in another country, check to ensure your driver's license is valid in that foreign nation. There's a good chance it will be, but there's a possibility your driver's license won't be a valid legal document. In such cases, you will need an international driving permit.
You must apply for this document in your home nation before your trip. Before you even think about booking a car rental, look into the licensing requirements to avoid problems.
2. Local Traffic Laws and Road Conditions
It's also essential to familiarize yourself with local traffic regulations and road conditions.
You shouldn't throw caution to the wind since you won't get a pass should you violate the rules of the road in your vacation destination. In some countries, for instance, you may have to drive on the left side of the road rather than the right side of the road. If you fail to notice this and drive on the side of the road you would at home, accidents could result. So, learn about local speed limits, right-of-way rules, road sign meanings, and more.
Just as important as knowing local traffic laws is learning about road conditions. Depending on where you go, the roads and highways may not be maintained the way they are in the U.S. It's best to know all of this beforehand.
3. Insurance Coverage
You also need to look carefully at insurance. Don't assume your car insurance policy in the U.S. will travel with you abroad.
If it doesn't, you can get coverage from your insurer specifically for your trip. Your insurance company can discuss things like collision damage waiver, third-party liability, and theft protection.
The coverage you need may also be available from your credit card provider under certain conditions.
When going on vacation, you don't want to have trouble renting a vehicle. Such a scenario would leave a sour taste in your mouth. Planning ahead will ensure you book the vehicle you need, enjoy your trip, and leave with good memories rather than nightmares about the car rental.
Photo by Simon Tartarotti on Unsplash
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
USTOA brings member delegates to the capitol
NEW YORK – The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) escorted a group of more than 50 Active Member tour operators and Associate Members to Washington, D.C., June 3-4, 2025, to advocate for tourism industry issues impacting the industry, from passport and visa processing to adequate funding of Brand USA and the National Park Service , among other urgent topics. 'In the 13th year of the USTOA Congressional Caucus, our advocacy efforts felt more important than ever,' said USTOA President & CEO Terry Dale . 'The Congressional Caucus is a vitally critical forum to engage directly with lawmakers on topics that will ensure the continued success and resilience of our industry and lead us toward a more responsible tourism future.' The morning of June 4 was packed with informative presentations on the 'state of the industry' from a number of industry representatives, including Fred Dixon, president and CEO of Brand USA; Jennifer Aguinaga, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism and Director, National Travel and Tourism Office; and Emily Douce, Deputy Vice President of Government Affairs for the National Parks Conservation Association. Guest speakers included Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the Presidential Task Force for 2026 FIFA World Cup, who spoke about initiatives to improve visa wait times and approval as the US is set to host this international event, and US Representative Tom Suozzi (D-NY), who provided insights into the top issues facing Congress. A small team of USTOA members met at the office of Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19). In the afternoon, nine teams of USTOA members visited the Capitol for meetings with leading members of Congress to discuss the core issues. Promoting U.S. tourism abroad with continued funding of Brand USA, urging Congress to fund the administration's Air Traffic Control modernization plan, the impact of tariffs on international and outbound U.S. travel, supporting National Park Service funding and sufficient staffing, encouraging improvement in passport application processing delays, and urging expedited visa processing and backlog reduction are among the topics discussed. Additional conversation included the INVEST in our Communities Act which aims to boost much-needed tourism and economic development in light of the recent drop off in Canadian travel to the US; supporting the DOT-Aviation Consumer Protection; and supporting travel infrastructure including the backing expansion of TSA Pre-check and Global Entry as well as phased enforcement and flexibility for REAL ID until full compliance on May 7, 2027. Dale continued, 'USTOA remains committed to being an advocate for responsible tourism, and these meetings proved to be a highly effective platform to communicate that message to key lawmakers. We have learned that our collective voice does matter and can make a difference. The participation of our members and the members of Congress who took the time to engage in discussions on the issues that matter most to our industry is deeply appreciated.' The Caucus kicked off with an opening night reception and dinner at the Colombian Ambassador 's residence, hosted by Daniel Ávila Camacho, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Colombia to the United States. Special guest Charlie Sykes, regular contributor to MSNBC and former editor-in-chief of The Bulwark, addressed the group about the importance to stay engaged in politics, among other timely topics.
Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Paso Robles Inn welcomes Chef Michael Freeman as Culinary Director
Paso Robles Inn appoints Chef Michael Freeman as Culinary Director, launching a bold new culinary era focused on local sourcing and seasonal innovation. PASO ROBLES, CA – Paso Robles Inn, a historic downtown landmark and icon of Paso Robles, announce the appointment of Chef Michael Freeman as Culinary Director. His arrival signals a transformative moment for both Paso Robles Inn and its sister property, The Piccolo, as the final step before sweeping culinary updates and a new chapter in hospitality excellence. 'Chef Freeman represents the future of dining at Paso Robles Inn and The Piccolo. His passion for local sourcing, combined with his roots in classical technique and his ability to lead with both creativity and precision, makes him the ideal partner as we reimagine what these properties can offer. We're at the beginning of an exciting journey – one that will unfold in the seasons ahead—but I have no doubt Chef Freeman will set the tone for the new Paso Robles culinary story to come,' says Chef Charlie Palmer. With over two decades of experience in fine dining, banquet operations, and hospitality leadership, Chef Freeman brings a thoughtful and seasoned approach to his new role at the Paso Robles Inn. Most recently, he served as Executive Chef for Charlie Palmer Steak DC. Prior to that, he led culinary teams at The Morrow Hotel and The LINE Hotel in Washington, D.C., as well as Eaton DC, where the hotel's signature restaurant, American Son, retained its Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction under his direction. Earlier in his career, Freeman honed his craft at Chef Charlie Palmer's Michelin-starred Aureole, laying the foundation for his refined, ingredient-driven style. 'We're not just changing menus – we're redefining what it means to dine in Paso Robles,' said Chef Freeman. 'This region has an incredible story to tell through its ingredients, its people, and its traditions. My goal is to craft an experience that's rooted in the land but reaching for something entirely new. This place feels like home in all the best ways. I want guests to feel the spirit of Paso Robles' warm hospitality, incredible products, and a real sense of pride in the land in every dish.' A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Orlando, Chef Freeman blends classical French technique with a modern American sensibility. He is known for building high-performing culinary teams, championing local ingredients, and crafting menus that are both innovative and approachable. 'At the Paso Robles Inn, our focus has always been on creating a warm, memorable experience that reflects the character and charm of this community,' said Erica Fryburger, General Manager of Paso Robles Inn. 'As we evolve, these new culinary offerings will not only deepen our commitment to hospitality but also help shape the Inn and Paso Robles into an epicurean destination – one that enhances every part of the guest experience.' A fresh taste of Paso: Seasonal menus and local sourcing Since joining, Chef Freeman has already begun rolling out new dishes that lean into Paso's agricultural bounty with a bold, meat-forward focus, positioning Paso Robles Inn as one of the only dining destinations in the region boasting a custom dry-aging program in partnership with Allen Brothers. Standouts include a 21-day dry-aged ribeye, prime rib carved in-house, and tri-tip steak frites – a nod to regional traditions. The new bar menu at Cattlemen's Lounge features dishes like Beef Tips with blistered fresno chili, and Chorizo Tots with smoky paprika aioli, offering a hearty, elevated take on local favorites. Additional menu highlights include: A weekly local cattle feature Morro Bay oysters and rotating seafood specials Locally grown mushrooms from Mighty Cap Produce from Seed in a Bucket, Aviation Farms and Sierra Honey Farms Menus can be viewed at along with hours of operation and reservations. Chef Freeman also encourages guests to look for daily specials featuring off-menu items sourced from his evolving roster of farmers, fishers, and ranchers. Additional new lunch and dinner dishes, along with a brand new brunch program will launch later this summer. A new standard for events and banquets In addition to daily dining, Freeman is reinventing banquet service at both properties. The soon-to-launch banquet menu reflects his seasonal, locally sourced ethos, with customizable packages that deliver restaurant-level quality at scale. Guests can expect refined presentations, layered flavor profiles, and thoughtful nods to Central Coast cuisine, whether booking a small wedding or a large corporate retreat. Freeman also leads internal chef training and kitchen culture-building efforts across both hotels, focusing on culinary excellence, respect for the craft and hospitality-driven service. Looking ahead: Charlie Palmer Collective arrives 2025–2026 Upon completion of major renovations in late 2025 and early 2026, the Charlie Palmer Collective will operate all food and beverage outlets at Paso Robles Inn and The Piccolo, including in-room dining and catering. Until then, Chef Freeman's leadership ensures continuity, creativity, and excellence while also helping shape the future vision. He will remain a key part of the culinary leadership team during and beyond the transition. This moment presents an incredible opportunity to join a passionate and growing culinary team. Paso Robles Inn is actively hiring for both front and back-of-house roles as it builds a culture of excellence and creativity in the heart of wine country. Peregrine Hospitality was launched in 2024 as a rebrand of KSL Resorts. Peregrine Hospitality offers a complete range of services, including hotel/resort management, development/project management, and global sales support, from asset management to advisory support. Today, it has 92 properties under direct management, asset management, or participating in the organization's global sales program in markets across the U.S., Fiji, the Maldives, Mauritius and Thailand. The portfolio includes distinctive resorts, boutique hotels, and select-service hotels with a wide range of amenities, including spa, golf, tennis and ski, and food and beverage operations.
Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Marriott Bonvoy partners with WeatherPromise
Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy now offers WeatherPromise, giving travelers compensation for excessive rain during their vacation rental stay. Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy and WeatherPromise team up to offer travelers, including nearly 237 million Marriott Bonvoy members, the confidence of rain protection with their next vacation rental. Marriott International is the first global hotel company to team up with WeatherPromise, with the aim of providing guests with guaranteed weather protection against rain. When guests book a trip on Homes and Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, they are offered a chance to add a WeatherPromise, which pays travelers if there is excessive rainfall. This unique offering gives people the confidence to explore new destinations, even during times of the year when weather worries are greatest. 'As part of our ongoing commitment to elevating guest experiences and exploring innovative enhancements, we're excited to introduce a customized new offering to help protect your plans from unexpected rain when booking a stay with Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy,' says Chris Stephenson, Vice President, Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy. 'While rain can sometimes dampen your vacation plans, WeatherPromise is now here to ensure guests feel secure no matter what the forecast holds.' Once a stay is booked through Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, guests will have the opportunity to purchase a personalized WeatherPromise that will provide a payout to the guest should the weather exceed the conditions of the guarantee during the guest's vacation. Each WeatherPromise offer balances price, triggers, and overall experience for your trip. Once a WeatherPromise is purchased, the system will automatically monitor the weather using data from satellite, weather radar, and weather stations. With WeatherPromise, Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy guests can enjoy added confidence when planning a trip. 'We're proud to offer WeatherPromises to guests booking through Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy and helping to set a new standard for peace of mind in modern travel,' said Daniel Price, co-founder of WeatherPromise. 'By joining forces, Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy and WeatherPromise are providing added reassurance to customers booking through one of the world's most trusted vacation rental platforms. Our shared mission is to expand when and how guests travel and experience the world, so they can enjoy trips year-round knowing they're protected against inclement weather.'
