We have a 10-trip Eurail pass and will rent cars as we go. We don't have a set itinerary so we don't know exact dates when we wil arrive in cities or we would set up our car rentals before we leave. Is it awfully expensive to rent as we go? Thank you!
Posted by
Tucson
4183 posts
I'm a little confused. If you have a 10-trip Eurail Pass, why do you need to set up multiple car rentals?
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8058 posts
The convention is that if you reserve before you go you get the best deals, but for a short rental, it probably does not make much difference.
I would search for options at each destination, check prices, and figure out how you will handle insurance. In the end, if your prepared, the cost will not be much greater than booking from the States, and likely well worth having the flexibility.
The exception might be if you are renting someplace for a week, but a couple days here and there, not an issue.
Posted by
FL USA
1560 posts
For what purpose do you envision needing to rent a car?
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
Jen and John are traveling for two months, so they do have enough time to add some car travel around Provence, etc.
I recall that autoeurope.com (a US-based consolidator) requests that your booking be completed before you leave home, and it may take them a day to confirm a booking, but I'm not sure if there are other reasons. Going directly to vendor web sites like Hertz or Europcar should be possible a few days in advance, but cheaper models or rates could sell out. If you book a little further ahead, it's usually possible to change or cancel a reservation without penalty; check those rules before giving out any credit card info. Same-day deals can also be advertised at car rental locations, if you're really flexible.