Car Rentals in Albania: What You Need to Know
Renting a car in Albania can transform your travel experience, offering more freedom to explore the fascinating beauty of the country at your own pace, as well as comfort and safety throughout the journey. If you are planning to travel along the Albanian Riviera, visit UNESCO-protected historic cities such as Berat and Gjirokastra, or simply enjoy the comfort that public transportation does not provide, consider renting a car in Albania. Here are some tips for the whole process of renting a car in Albania.
Choose the Right Vehicle
- Consider the Terrain: Albania’s rich terrain allows you to travel along the coast one day, and find yourself climbing rugged alpine terrain the next. Therefore, it is advisable to consider the terrain during your journey in order to choose the right vehicle. Small cars are ideal for trips within the city, while an SUV car is better for long trips and mountainous terrain.
- Consider the Price: Car rental prices in Albania vary by agency, location and time of booking. You should keep in mind that prices may change from period to period. We advise you to book a rental car Albania before you arrive here. Doing this, you will be able to secure a reliable car, without straining your budget.
- Consider Space Needs: When planning a trip, you must consider the necessary space you need to experience a comfortable trip. Family cars are ideal for average families, while 7-seaters are ideal for large families or travel groups.
Understand Rental Terms
- Read the Contract: Before accepting and signing the contract, make sure you have read and understood all the terms of the contract. Pay special attention to insurance coverage, limits and penalties.
- Insurance Options: Most car rental agencies in Tirana include basic insurance. However, it is advisable to consider a full coverage of the vehicle, such as theft coverage or natural damage, especially in rural and isolated areas.
Check the Rental Car
- Document Existing Damages: To avoid disagreements after you have delivered the rental car, be sure to document all existing damages at the time you receive the vehicle. You can document them with dated photos if possible. In this way, you will know exactly if the damage after delivery was caused by you or not.
- Check Major Safety Equipment: Verify all safety aspects of the vehicle before picking it up or before each trip. This can include checking the necessary car documents, spare tires and all other essential equipment.
Familiarize yourself with the Traffic Rules
- Road Traffic Rules: Traveling in Albania may be different from what you have experienced before. It is advisable that before renting a car in Tirana, you familiarize yourself with the traffic rules, such as speed limits, parking, fines, etc.
- Necessary Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents before renting a car in Albania. Tourists from most countries are allowed to drive a vehicle with their original driving license. However, it is advisable to have an international driver’s license for your peace of mind.
Plan Your Itinerary
- Navigation Tools: Adventures are part of the journey. However, it is advisable to have the necessary navigation tools with you, such as maps. If you plan to travel deep into the countryside, and you don’t see any signposts, be sure to ask the locals and have an offline map on your phone.
- Avoid Peak Traffic: In dense cities and tourist sites, you may encounter heavy traffic. Be sure to plan your trip in such a way as to avoid peak traffic times, which usually occur between 07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:00.
Consider Stations and Fuel Regulations
- Fuel Agreement Rules: Most rental car agencies follow the full-to-full fuel rule. This means that you will receive the vehicle fully supplied and you will also have to deliver it full. Be sure to fill up the vehicle at a nearby gas station to avoid additional payments.
- Fuel Up at Large and Modern Gas Stations: Inside the cities and along the main intercity roads, you will find gas stations everywhere. However, they are not as frequent in rural areas. Therefore, make sure to supply the vehicle with enough fuel before a long journey.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
- Emergency Contacts: Emergencies can happen when you don’t even think about it during a trip. Therefore, for your own safety and peace of mind, keep emergency contacts in Albania, together with that of the rental car agency. The emergency numbers in Albania are: 127 (ambulance), 128 (firefighter) and 129 (police).
- First Aid Kit: Make sure you have a first aid kit, a flashlight and other emergency equipment in your vehicle.
Conclusion
Renting a car in Albania offers a unique experience to all travelers. You can explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural wealth at your own pace. By following these tips, you will have a smooth and stress-free rental car experience and enjoy all the adventures that await on your journey.
