Whether you’re traveling across Europe, the Caucasus, or sunny Mediterranean coasts, having your own set of wheels makes all the difference. But dealing with big car rental chains can be a hassle—hidden fees, pushy upselling, and long waits. That’s where Localrent comes in, giving you a simpler, more personal experience. Let’s break down exactly how you can use this platform to find, book, and drive your dream rental car without the stress.
Introduction to Localrent
What is Localrent?
Localrent is a car rental aggregator platform that connects travelers directly with local car rental companies in different countries, especially across Europe, the Balkans, the Caucasus, and Asia. Instead of working with giant multinational corporations, Localrent offers users access to independent and often family-run businesses. This means more flexibility, better prices, and more personalized service.
The website is designed with simplicity in mind: input your destination, pick your dates, choose a car, and book. That’s it. No clutter, no confusion. What makes Localrent special is that you’re renting directly from someone who understands the region, roads, and local rules—plus, you often get a real person to assist you if you need help.
Why Choose Localrent Over Traditional Rental Services?
So why should you skip the usual suspects like Hertz, Avis, or Enterprise? For starters:
- Lower Prices: Localrent often undercuts major chains because there’s no corporate overhead. You’re dealing directly with a small local agency.
- No Hidden Fees: What you see is what you get. Taxes, insurance, and mileage limits are clearly explained.
- Real Human Support: Forget robotic chatbots. Localrent has excellent support with real people who respond quickly.
- Trustworthy Reviews: Every review on the platform is verified from actual customers—no fake bots or planted praise.
Another major perk is the flexibility. Need to rent without a credit card? No problem. Want your car delivered to your hotel or airport? Done. In many cases, you can even cross borders with Localrent cars—a lifesaver for road trippers.
Preparing for Your Car Rental
Researching Your Destination
Before you hop on the Localrent website, take a few moments to consider your travel plans. Are you going to stick to one city or drive across borders? Will you be navigating mountain roads or cruising down highways?
Check:
- Which cities or airports you’ll arrive at and leave from.
- Whether there are road tolls, vignettes, or ferry crossings on your route.
- Weather conditions—for instance, snow chains may be required in winter for mountain regions.
Also, think about how much space you’ll need. Traveling solo with a backpack? A compact car will do. Bringing kids, gear, or planning to sleep in the car sometimes? Look into SUVs or vans.
Understanding Local Driving Laws and Requirements
Each country has its quirks. For example:
- Speed limits differ drastically. In Georgia, there’s often no radar, while in Croatia, they’re strict.
- Some countries require daytime running lights even during summer.
- Alcohol limits may be zero-tolerance (especially in Eastern Europe).
- Parking zones are color-coded—misread one in Bulgaria, and your car might be towed.
Make sure you Google the traffic rules for the country or countries you’re visiting. Or better yet, check out Localrent’s country guides—they’re pretty comprehensive and localized.
Documents You’ll Need to Rent a Car
Most of the time, renting a car on Localrent is simpler than big-name platforms. Here’s what you typically need:
- Passport or national ID card
- Driver’s license (must be valid in the country of rental)
- International Driving Permit (IDP) – only required in some countries
- Rental voucher or email confirmation
Some local providers also ask for a security deposit—but here’s the good news: it can usually be paid in cash. No credit card? No problem with most local companies, which is a huge plus for many travelers.
How to Book a Car on Localrent -Simple 8 Steps
Step 1: Visit the Localrent Website
Image Credit: Localrent
Go to localrent.com and choose your country of travel. The homepage is intuitive, clean, and focused solely on making your booking experience quick and efficient. Unlike other cluttered rental websites, Localrent only shows relevant options based on location and availability.
Once you’ve picked the country, you’ll be taken to a dedicated page with localized information, including driving laws, border crossing rules, and pickup policies.
Step 2: Enter Your Trip Details
Image Credit: Localrent
You’ll be prompted to enter:
- Pickup location (e.g., Tbilisi Airport)
- Drop-off location (can be the same or different)
- Pickup and return dates and times
You can even select specific delivery options, like:
- Hotel delivery
- Airport curbside pickup
- Local office
This flexibility is great for avoiding long queues or confusing rental counters.
Step 3: Browse and Filter Car Options
Image Credit: Localrent
Once you’ve entered your travel details, Localrent displays a wide range of available cars from various local providers. You’ll find everything from budget hatchbacks to luxury SUVs, and even specialty vehicles like 4x4s for mountain driving or convertibles for beach towns.
To narrow your options, use the filters:
- Transmission: Manual or automatic
- Vehicle type: Economy, compact, SUV, premium, minivan
- Rental company ratings
- Fuel policy
- Security deposit amount
- Extra features: GPS, child seats, winter tires, etc.
Each car listing includes:
- Real photos of the actual vehicle (not stock images)
- Provider name and user rating
- Mileage and fuel limits
- Deposit requirements
- Full pricing breakdown
You’ll also see icons showing what’s included—like insurance, border crossing permission, or unlimited mileage. This transparency helps you compare not just prices but overall value.
Step 4: Selecting the Right Car for Your Needs
Image Credit: Localrent
This is where you get strategic. Don’t just go for the cheapest option—think about your trip. If you’re driving through mountainous regions like Montenegro or Armenia, you’ll want something with a bit of power—ideally an SUV or at least a mid-size sedan with good ground clearance.
Need fuel economy for a long cross-country journey? Opt for a diesel or hybrid vehicle. Taking tight city corners in a place like Istanbul or Sofia? A small, maneuverable hatchback will be your best friend.
Ask yourself:
- How much luggage will I have?
- Am I comfortable driving manual if that’s the only option?
- Will I need air conditioning for summer heat?
- How’s the road condition in my destination?
Each car page shows actual customer reviews too, which gives you extra confidence when choosing the right ride.
Step 5: Reviewing Pricing and Rental Terms
Image Credit: Localrent
Before hitting that “Book Now” button, make sure to review the details thoroughly. Localrent is upfront with fees, and each listing includes:
- Daily rental cost
- Included mileage (some offer unlimited, others have a daily cap)
- Fuel policy (most are full-to-full)
- Insurance coverage (typically includes CDW or third-party)
- Deposit required (can vary from zero to €500 depending on the car and provider)
One standout feature? You can often book without a credit card, especially for lower deposit cars or those that allow cash-on-delivery payment. This is a huge win for travelers who don’t carry cards or are wary of pre-charging large amounts.
You’ll also want to check the cancellation policy. Many cars allow free cancellation up to 24–48 hours before pickup, but always confirm before finalizing.
Finalizing the Booking Process
Step 6: Booking Your Car
Image Credit: Localrent
When you’re satisfied with your choice, click “Book Now.” You’ll be taken to a short form where you’ll provide:
- Full name
- Phone number (with WhatsApp)
- Email address
- Hotel or location name for delivery (if applicable)
- Flight details (if airport pickup)
Some providers allow instant confirmation, while others may take a few hours to approve the booking manually. Either way, you’ll get a confirmation email and a voucher with all the rental details once it’s approved.
Important: Keep your phone handy. Most providers will WhatsApp or call you before delivery to confirm timing.
Step 7: Communication With the Rental Provider
This is where Localrent shines over traditional rental companies. Once booked, you’ll receive direct contact info for your car provider, including:
- Phone number
- WhatsApp link
- Support email
This direct communication ensures smoother coordination for pickup and drop-off. You can ask questions like:
- “Can I pick up the car an hour early?”
- “Can you deliver to a new hotel?”
- “Will the car have snow chains?”
The providers are usually very flexible and responsive, especially if you’re respectful and clear with your needs. It’s a local business relationship, not a corporate transaction.
Step 8: Payment Methods and Security
Image Credit: Localrent
Depending on the rental provider and destination, you can usually pay via:
- Cash on delivery
- Bank card (Visa/MasterCard)
- Wire transfer
- PayPal (some providers)
Most users prefer paying in cash on arrival. In this case, you’ll just need to leave a cash deposit, which is refundable when the car is returned in the same condition. This is a game-changer for travelers who don’t want credit card holds or foreign exchange hassles.
Localrent also uses SSL-secure transactions on its website, ensuring your personal information is protected if you do choose online payment.
What to Expect After Booking
Confirmation Email and Voucher
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to your rental voucher. This document is essential—it includes:
- Pickup date and time
- Provider’s name and phone number
- Car details (model, license plate, fuel level, etc.)
- Insurance coverage
- Deposit and payment info
Print this out or save it to your phone—it’s your go-to document during pickup. In most cases, showing the voucher on your mobile is sufficient.
If your confirmation is delayed for more than 24 hours, reach out to Localrent support directly. They usually resolve things quickly.
Pickup and Drop-off Instructions
Depending on your agreement, the provider may:
- Meet you at the airport arrival gate with your name on a card
- Deliver the car to your hotel or Airbnb
- Ask you to come to a local office
Make sure the car provider inspects the vehicle with you before you drive off. Look for:
- Dents, scratches, windshield chips
- Tire condition
- Fuel level
- Spare tire and safety equipment
Take photos and videos of the car’s condition as evidence—just in case of disputes later.
For drop-off, you’ll return the car at the agreed spot. If you’re delayed, contact the provider ASAP—most are flexible with notice.
Insurance Options and Safety Tips
Localrent cars typically come with basic Third-Party Liability Insurance, and some offer Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or full coverage for an extra daily fee.
Tips:
- If driving in mountainous or remote areas, consider full insurance
- Always lock the vehicle and avoid leaving valuables inside
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and gas stations
- Keep the provider’s contact info handy in case of breakdowns or accidents
Remember, your safety is more important than sticking to the itinerary. Drive responsibly and enjoy the journey.
Troubleshooting Common Booking Issues
What If Your Desired Car Isn’t Available?
It can be a bummer when you’ve got your heart set on a specific ride, only to see a red “Unavailable” label. But don’t panic—Localrent works with multiple providers, so you usually have similar alternatives.
Here’s what you can do:
- Use filters smartly: Look for cars from the same category or price range.
- Check availability dates: Sometimes just shifting your pickup by a few hours or a day makes the car available again.
- Contact support: Localrent’s team is responsive. If you message them, they’ll often suggest near-matches or even check with providers manually for cancellations.
Also, keep in mind that automatic cars sell out quickly, especially in countries where manual is standard. So if that’s a deal-breaker, book early!
How to Modify or Cancel Your Booking
Plans change—we get it. Maybe your flight’s delayed, or you’ve decided to explore a different city. Localrent makes changes relatively painless.
To modify your booking:
- Go to the confirmation email.
- Click the “Manage Booking” link.
- Select “Modify Dates” or “Change Car.”
You’ll see real-time availability and can adjust your pickup/drop-off details.
To cancel, just hit the “Cancel Booking” button. If it’s within the free cancellation window (usually 24–48 hours before pickup), there’s no charge. If you’re late, a small fee may apply, especially for peak season or rare car types.
Always double-check the provider’s individual cancellation policy, which is displayed clearly on the booking page.
Tips for a Smooth Car Rental Experience
Inspecting the Vehicle Before and After
You might be tempted to skip the inspection, especially when the provider seems chill. Don’t. A thorough inspection protects both of you.
Here’s your checklist:
- Walk around the vehicle: Check all sides for scratches, dents, or paint damage.
- Take clear photos: Snap the bumpers, tires, windshield, and undercarriage.
- Check interior condition: Stains, rips, dashboard functions.
- Look under the hood: Make sure nothing is leaking or loose.
- Record fuel level and mileage before driving off.
When returning the car, repeat the same steps. If possible, return the car during daylight hours and get written confirmation that the car was returned in good condition. This will help avoid disputes.
Driving Tips for Tourists
Driving in a foreign country can feel like a game of survival, especially if you’re not used to the rules. Some tips to keep in mind:
- Speed traps are real: Especially in places like Bulgaria, Romania, and Turkey.
- Roundabouts are common—know who has the right of way.
- Parking zones are color-coded: white, blue, and red often mean different rules.
- Use offline maps like Maps.me or download Google Maps offline versions.
- Refuel wisely: Some rural areas have limited stations or only accept cash.
If you’re in a mountainous area, use lower gears on descents and avoid braking too much. And always respect local customs. For example, in the Caucasus, drivers may stop suddenly to let livestock pass.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Here are the classic mistakes to avoid:
- Not reading the fine print: Mileage, insurance, fuel policies matter.
- Forgetting your IDP: Some countries are strict.
- Assuming GPS is included: It’s usually an extra add-on.
- Returning the car dirty or late: You might be charged a fee.
- Not documenting pre-existing damage: Always take photos.
Be proactive, ask questions, and stay polite. Most local providers are very accommodating when you treat them with respect.
Localrent Customer Support and Service
How to Contact Support
If you run into trouble, Localrent’s support team is there for you. And no, it’s not just an auto-response bot.
You can contact them via:
- Live chat on their website
- Email: Usually replies within a few hours
- Phone support: Available in major destination countries
- WhatsApp: For direct car provider contact after booking
Whether it’s a booking issue, a question about your car, or help resolving a disagreement with a provider, they respond fast—and most importantly, they help.
Real User Reviews and Testimonials
Localrent includes verified reviews only—so you’re reading real experiences, not paid promotions.
What do users say?
- “Cheaper and more flexible than big companies.”
- “Loved the cash-on-arrival option!”
- “Super friendly local provider who delivered the car to my hostel.”
- “Had an issue with a tire, and the provider came in 20 minutes with a replacement.”
The average review score across countries hovers between 4.6 to 4.9 out of 5, which is stellar by any standard.
These reviews often include helpful tips, like which cars are more fuel-efficient, or which providers speak English.
Comparing Localrent to Other Rental Platforms
Localrent vs. International Chains
| Feature | Localrent | Hertz/Avis/Enterprise |
|---|---|---|
| Local Ownership | ✅ (Local businesses) | ❌ (Corporate) |
| Credit Card Needed | ❌ (Cash options available) | ✅ (Almost always required) |
| Customer Service | ✅ (Fast, personal) | ❌ (Slow, scripted) |
| Deposit Flexibility | ✅ (Low or no deposit) | ❌ (High deposit holds) |
| Price Transparency | ✅ (All fees shown) | ❌ (Surprise charges) |
Localrent vs. Peer-to-Peer Rentals
Peer-to-peer platforms (like Turo) may sound appealing, but they come with risks:
- Insurance gaps are more common.
- Cars might not be well-maintained.
- Harder to coordinate delivery and support.
Localrent gives you the local touch without the hassle. It’s like renting from a local friend—but with formal guarantees, insurance, and a backup plan if something goes wrong.
Conclusion
Booking a car through Localrent is one of the smartest travel decisions you can make if you’re looking for value, flexibility, and local insight. From the ease of booking and diverse vehicle options to the transparent pricing and personal service, Localrent stands tall among traditional rental options.
Whether you’re cruising the Albanian coast, climbing Georgian mountains, or exploring the rural charm of Bosnia, Localrent gives you the freedom to go at your own pace—with fewer headaches. It’s not just about renting a car. It’s about renting freedom.
FAQs
1. Is Localrent safe to use?
Yes, it’s a highly reliable platform with thousands of real reviews and a responsive customer service team. You’re dealing with vetted local businesses.
2. Can I rent a car without a credit card on Localrent?
Absolutely. Many providers accept cash on delivery and only require a small deposit—sometimes none at all.
3. What’s the cancellation policy?
Most rentals allow free cancellation up to 24–48 hours before pickup. Always check the provider’s specific policy before booking.
4. Do I need an International Driving Permit?
Only in some countries. It’s usually required if your license isn’t in Latin script (e.g., Cyrillic or Arabic). Check the requirements for your destination.
5. Are Localrent cars reliable?
Yes. The cars come from licensed local companies with high customer ratings. You can view actual vehicle photos and real reviews before booking.