Croatia is such a beautiful country and it is always a good idea to rent a car and to explore it.
That way you do not depend on public transport and you can get off the beaten track. The first thing is finding a price that will suit your budget. You will have to compare the prices to find the best deal. There are a lot of rental companies like Alamo, Budget, Europcar, Fleet, Hertz, Last Minute Rent a Car, and Sixt and you should visit all of them to compare the prices. It is not an easy job so I suggest using a comparison aggregator like CarRentals or AutoEurope, it will be a huge help. This comparison aggregator can help you to calculate the best option regarding car rental.
You must also note that the prices are different in the low and high seasons. Also, it is a good idea to book well in advance, because the prices are much lower if you book on time. Sometimes it can happen that you get a lower price last minute but it is risky, so it is better not to wait too much. Of course, during the peak season, it is very often impossible to find a car rental last minute because the demand is huge.
On average a rental car in Croatia costs $37 per day for an economy car. But prices differ between operators and as I said you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The price also depends on what type of car you would drive and, as I mentioned, the season.
Most car companies offer an insurance policy to go along with a car, but these are generally overpriced. There are plenty of other companies that offer short-term insurance for rented cars and the prices can be more convenient so it is a good idea to check the insurance companies' offers.
To rent a car in Croatia, you need a valid driver's license from your country. In case you don't have a driving license, check how to get a driving license in Croatia. You will need an international driving license only if your license is not written in the Latin alphabet. Also, you must be at least 18 years old (age may vary by car category) and have held your license for one year. Drivers under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
If you want to cross the border and go for example to Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro, make sure that the car company allows cross-border travel outside European Union.
You should also check if the rental company charges additional fees for one-way drop-offs, the case when you pick up a car from one place and leave it in another. If that is the case, always check the offers from other companies. Also check if there are any hidden service taxes, the best way to do it is to ask for the final price.
Before you take the car from the rental company always carefully inspect for scratches and if there are some, point it out. If you travel with a child that is under 18 kg you must ask the company for a baby seat. It will be charged additionally so if you already have one at home, it is better to use it. Check that there is a full tank of gas and don't forget to refill before returning the car.
There are a few standard legal driving limits in Croatia:
50 km/h – is the standard legal limit when traveling through suburbs or built-up areas
80 km/h – is the standard legal limit when you’re traveling on open roads
130 km/h – is the standard legal limit when traveling on motorways
There are plenty of gas stations throughout Croatia. You can choose from a range of different suppliers like INA, Crodux, Tifon, Petrol, and Lukoil. It is important to refill on time so you don't have any worries. Also, expect to find more and more electric car chargers on parking and gas stations.
Lastly, don't forget some common rules:
Seat belts are mandatory and children under 12 are not allowed to sit in the front passenger seat. Children from ages 2-5 must be in a suitable child's seat. Never drink when you drive! For drivers under 25, the blood alcohol level is 0 % while driving, for drivers over the age of 25 it is 0.5%. as long you don't get into an accident. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal.
So now when you get an idea about car rental in Croatia it is time to choose some amazing locations and go on a trip. Don't forget to sing On the Road again!