Is a trip to Europe in your travel plans this year? If so, you can truly enjoy the sights of Europe by driving through the English countryside, the hill towns of Italy, or to the French wine country in a Hertz rental car.

Read below for some tips on renting a car while abroad. European vehicles can be quite different from those in the US. You will want to ask questions to familiarize yourself with car models available for international rentals.

• Always tell the rental agent how many people need to be comfortably accommodated and what your luggage requirements will be. Keep in mind that the least expensive vehicles are likely to be smaller than American models.
• Be knowledgeable about your car’s attributes. Europeans drive manual transmission vehicles so you may find cars with automatic transmission are not readily available. Fortunately, Hertz has an assortment of Collection vehicles where a large variety of automatic cars are available. Five tailor-made car classes: Dream, some of the finest cars on the road; Prestige, unique luxury and performance vehicles; Fun, for a playful and sportier driving experience; Family, lots of space with extra comfort; and Green, fuel efficient and alternative fuel vehicles. Collection advantages include: big choice of cars, high quality and low mileage, Make and Model Guarantee*, Express pick-ups**, instant drop-offs**, loyalty points.
• Many of the cars in the Hertz fleet are equipped with GPS. If not, you can rent Hertz NeverLost for extra peace of mind.
• Many cars have hatchbacks, not a trunk (or a boot as it’s called in UK). In the hatchback models, there is normally a parcel shelf equipped for privacy so you can hide items just as well as a trunk.
• In the UK, you will drive on the left side of the road and operate the vehicle from the right side of the car. The gas and brake pedals are in the same position as in a US model.
• Fuel is charged by the liter. One gallon of gas equals 3.79 liters. Be familiar with local terms for gasoline, e.g., in the U.K. gas is referred to as petrol, diesel is called gasoil. Converting kilometers to miles is easy … divide kilometers by ten and multiply by six. Sixty kilometers per hour is roughly 35 miles per hour.
• Airport rental agency counters may not have 24-hour service. Many in-city rental offices have restricted weekend hours and some European locations close for lunch. When making a reservation, take into account the business hours prior to selecting the vehicle’s drop off time to avoid any additional charges for late returns.
• Be aware of and respect speed limits as many roads are equipped with automatic speed cameras.

Be sure to pick up an International Driving Permit (IDP) at your local AAA office. Your IDP is a valid form of identification in 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information in English, and translates your identification information into 10 languages — so it speaks the language even if you do not. Remember to ask for the Hertz IDP coupon for $20 off optional services (such as luggage racks, child seats or optional coverages, etc.).

With 100 years of experience, Hertz lets you spend less time worrying and more time enjoying Europe. As AAA’s preferred car rental partner, Hertz offers AAA Members exclusive discounts on Hertz Affordable Europe rates. In addition to competitive rates, you will have access to various benefits that truly make a difference, including English-speaking staff, chauffeur services, Dream, Prestige, Fun, Family, and Green Collection vehicles, 24-hour emergency roadside assistance, and instant return service.

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*Applies only to Dream, Prestige and Fun Collections. Hertz will do everything possible to provide the exact make and model. If unable, you will be offered another car of equivalent or higher value, at no extra cost, or you will receive a full refund. Not all brands and models are available in all countries. **Available when you join the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program.