Before going on a road trip overseas, there are several tips for being prepared when renting a car in Europe. It is definitely different when driving overseas, including some countries driving on the wrong side of the road. It is also necessary to realize that road signs are in a different language.

Before heading across the ocean, apply for an international driving permit. Check online for information on these. Passport, driving permit, and rental papers could be requested when entering any country. Also check with the rental company to make sure there aren't restrictions on what countries the car can be taken into. Also, be familiar with the vehicle before driving off the lot. Know what type of fuel it uses, what side of the vehicle the tank is on, and know where all the controls are on the dash.

Having emergency numbers, speed limits, and directions prepared before embarking on the trip. Obey all traffic signs and plan on arriving before dark each day. Toll roads are abundant; therefore, ensure toll money is not going to run out. Also, a lot of gas stations close in the evening. It is important to make sure the vehicle will not run out of gas prior to reaching the destination.

The temptation to stop every five minutes to take pictures is a hard one to overcome, but it is very difficult to find a hotel in the dark. Sometimes it difficult to find the city where the hotel is located when it is dark. If a person knows they plan on stopping often during the road-trip, then it should be incorporated into the schedule to ensure arrival at each location before darkness descends.

So renting a car in Europe is much like renting a car anywhere else. Preparation is the key to make the most of the experience. By vehicle, sight seers can see much more scenery and back roads and beautiful views than by train. So buckle up for the experience of a lifetime.

* Long-term rentals are usually cheaper if booked in advance from a traveler's home country, through a travel agent or online.

* Check out offers on rail-and-drive passes. Options allow a traveler to rent a car, a day at a time, cheaper than a reasonable weekly rate.

* Find out costs of on-the-spot booking through a travel agency, while on vacation.

Rental agencies in the US like Avis, Alamo/National, Budget, Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty usually have offices in European countries. Request quotes from each company. For a quicker search, use travel-booking websites like Expedia, Kayak, Travelocity, or AAA.

Consider using a consolidator like Europe by Car or Auto Europe. A consolidator compares company rates, finds the best deals, and passes on the savings to the traveler. The consolidator then issues a voucher used to pick up the car rented in the European country.

Rental rates can vary from country to country, company to company, and time of booking. A company that gives the cheapest quote in one country may give the highest rate in another. Choose the best deal by comparing terms and costs incurred.