Question 1

Which car rental company is cheapest in Europe?

Accepted Answer

Prices vary by location and dates. DiscoverCars and RentalCars.com typically offer the broadest selection, while AutoEurope often wins on all-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees. Use our search to compare all providers for your specific dates.

Question 2

Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Europe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Almost all car rental companies require a credit card (not debit) for the security deposit. The hold amount varies by car category and provider — typically €200–€1,500. Some companies accept debit cards with additional verification.

Question 3

Can I take a rental car across the border from Lithuania?

Accepted Answer

Most major rental companies allow cross-border travel within the EU. Always confirm with your chosen provider before booking. Trips outside the EU (e.g., Belarus, Ukraine, Russia) are almost always prohibited.

Question 4

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Lithuania?

Accepted Answer

The minimum age is 21 for most companies, though some accept drivers from age 18. Drivers under 25 typically pay a Young Driver Surcharge of €10–€25 per day. Drivers over 65–70 may also face senior driver fees.

Question 5

Is it better to book car rental in advance or at the airport?

Accepted Answer

Booking in advance almost always saves money — often 30–50% less than walk-up rates. Airport desks charge premium prices for same-day availability. Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead for busy summer months.

Question 6

What insurance do I need when renting a car?

Accepted Answer

Standard rentals include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection. However, they often come with a large excess (€1,000–€3,000). Consider buying full coverage or a standalone travel insurance policy to reduce the excess to zero.

Question 7

Are automatic cars more expensive to rent in Europe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, automatic transmission cars typically cost 20–40% more than manual in Europe. Availability is lower, especially in smaller vehicle categories. Book early if you need an automatic, particularly during summer.

Question 8

What happens if I return the car late?

Accepted Answer

Late returns usually incur hourly fees, and anything over 1–2 hours is often charged as a full extra day. Some providers offer a 30-minute grace period. Always check the terms and contact the provider if you'll be delayed.

Question 9

Can I rent a car one-way in Europe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most major providers offer one-way rentals within the same country and across EU borders. One-way fees (drop charges) vary — some are free, others can be €100–€300+. Always compare providers, as fees differ significantly.

Question 10

What fuel policy should I choose for my rental?

Accepted Answer

Full-to-Full is the safest policy — you receive a full tank and return it full. Avoid 'Full-to-Empty' policies where you pre-pay for a full tank regardless of how much you use; you rarely get value for money on those.

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