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Choices of transportation for trip!

Hi there,

I've been reading many Romania trip topics here, and they've been incredibly helpful. I'm currently planning a trip through Romania(maybe in August, I have asked in my last topic about Transylvania), and I still don't decided whether should I renting a car. I try to find out my answer through whole forum, Either it dates back too far, or the information is too fragmented. So it's hard for me to totally know all the details and I decide to start a new topic about this to address my concerns .

From what I've read, renting a car seems to offer much more flexibility, especially for some places that are harder to reach by train or bus. On the other hand, I'm also aware that driving in a new country comes with much challenges. So there are two voices and I don't know how to choose.

If you recommend renting a car, I want to ask: Is it better to book through a comparison platform(like Auto Europe, DiscoverCars, QEEQ...), book with a rental supplier directly(like Hertz, Avis, Europcar...), or simply book at the hotel? These really confuse me for a long time. And I also want to know your experience about them.

Additionally, Are there any age restrictions or extra fees for younger drivers? Because I am only 25 years old. Is one-way rental(returning the car in a different city)common, and are the additional charges usually reasonable? Are there any common extra charges or situations that first-time visitors should watch out for?

And if you not recommend renting a car(maybe taking public transportation), please tell me your not-rent-a-car trip experience and advice! THX!

I'm not looking for the cheapest way. However, I'd rather avoid unnecessary surprises and have a smooth trip experience. THX in advance for sharing your experiences and advice!

Posted by
30 posts

THX for your great advice! I’ve decided to go with a car hire and will probably book through a comparison platform because I just found that there are a few good coupon for car renting at some platforms which make them way cheaper than some rental suppliers.

Since I'm planning a one-way rental, I have two quick questions:

  • Third-party insurance: If I buy the "Full Coverage" on a platform, do local desks in Romania usually push their own insurance aggressively or hold crazy high deposits?
  • Hidden fees: Are one-way fees usually fully included in the platform's price, or should I expect surprises at the counter?

Thx in advance!

Posted by
30 posts

Totally agree with you on that. Insurance is definitely something to be careful with, and reading the whole rules closely is a must since nobody wants to waste money. Regarding hidden fees, I feel like I can encounter them whether using a comparison site or booking directly, so choosing reputable and reliable platforms or rental companies is super important. And I found that there is a third-party scores like Trustpilot give a reference—I've noticed QEEQ has them—though I still keep a neutral attitude towards them since individual experiences vary a lot. What do you think about Trustpilot? And I wonder is it a reliable third-party score I could trust? THX in advance!