Yaar, renting a car in Albania in 2024 is the best way to explore the country’s top spots and hidden gems on your own schedule! You can check out the gorgeous beaches, old-school Ottoman villages, epic castles and rugged mountain scenes. But before you book your wheels for an Albanian road trip, there’s some important stuff you should know.
To get your hands on a rental car in Albania, you need a driver’s license that’s been valid for 1-3 years. Most companies won’t rent to you if you’re under 21, and they’ll charge you extra per day if you’re below 25. Keep your passport or any government ID handy too. An International Driving Permit is good to have if your license isn’t in English.
Importance of Insurance When Renting
Now, let’s talk insurance. By law, you need basic third-party liability coverage which the rental usually includes. But trust me, it’s worth shelling out an extra 10-20 bucks a day for complete insurance. You don’t want to get stuck paying for any dings or dents! When you’re booking the car, ask about getting that extra coverage at a good price. Another thing – the rental company will block around $100-500 on your credit card as a security deposit. You’ll get it back when you return the car without any damage.
Car Selection for Albanian Roads
For most places in Albania, an economy car will do the trick. But if you’re planning to head up into the mountains and hit those kaccha roads, better get a 4WD or SUV. Pick a car size that’ll fit your whole group and all your stuff comfortably. Just keep in mind, automatics cost more than manual cars. Pro tip: rent for a longer time and you’ll get a sweeter deal on the daily rate! And book well in advance if you want the best prices and your top choice of car, especially during peak season.
Driving Tips in Albania
Driving in Albania is pretty straightforward – stick to the right side of the road. Speed limits go from 40 km/h in cities and towns to 110 km/h on highways. Keep an eye out for signs and follow them closely. You might see the local drivers going a little crazy on the roads, but don’t try to copy them or you could end up with a big fine! Potholes can be a problem, especially up north in the hills. In the cities, streets are lit up nicely but rural roads can get pretty dark so be prepared. If the cops pull you over at a checkpoint, make sure you have your license, insurance papers and rental car docs ready to show them. And dost, don’t forget – no using your mobile or driving after drinking! Seat belts are a must for everyone in the car.
Navigation and Fuel Tips for Your Trip
To find your way around Albania, navigation apps like Google Maps and Maps.me are your best bet. Keep some cash on you for petrol, because not every pump takes cards. Most gas stations are open from 8am to 8pm and the attendant will fill up the tank for you. Petrol prices are around 480 rupees per gallon these days. Fill ‘er up before you drop the car off to avoid paying extra fees!
Final Checks and Return Procedures
When you’re picking up your rental ride, take a good look over the car with the company rep. Get any scratches or dents written down on the agreement form. I always snap some photos of the car condition too, just in case! Also, double check that there’s a first aid kit – it’s required by law. While returning the car, give yourself extra time to find parking near the rental office. And make sure the car is cleaned up and has a full tank of gas, otherwise they might hit you with additional charges. One last heads up – you could pay more if you’re dropping the car off at a different location from where you picked it up.
So there you have it, dost! Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be all set for an epic Albanian road trip. Rent a car and get ready for a wild ride through this beautiful Balkan country!
