Compared to an airplane, bus, or train, this mode of transport offers the greatest freedom of movement. Company 7cars, which offers car rental for travel abroad, shares its tips: what must be taken into account when setting off on a trip by car?
Traveling in Your Own Car
The fear of the unknown always raises many questions. What should you take with you for a trip in your own car? What documents are needed and how to obtain them? Our article will answer these questions.
What Documents Are Needed for Traveling Abroad
Ukrainian driver's license. It must be issued in accordance with international requirements, i.e., be plastic and have an expiration date.
The car must have a state license plate. If you drive with a "personalized" plate in Ukraine, keep in mind that abroad such a license plate will be considered invalid.
The vehicle must be marked with the identification sign of Ukraine (flag on the license plate, "UA" sticker on a white background in a black oval).
The driver must have a civil liability insurance contract for vehicle owners. It is better to obtain the so-called "Green Card" in advance.
Vehicle registration certificate issued to the person crossing the border. If you do not own the car, you can obtain a temporary registration certificate for the duration of the trip at the Ministry of Internal Affairs service center. This requires a statement from the legal owner of the car or a document confirming the right to use the vehicle (e.g., a power of attorney).
For leased or credit cars, a certificate from the bank stating that there are no objections to temporary departure from Ukraine is mandatory.
What Else Is Needed for an Independent Trip
A fully functional car. It is best to undergo not a formal inspection but a full maintenance service.
Mandatory presence of a first aid kit and a warning triangle in the car. Some countries also require a fire extinguisher, spare bulbs, and a reflective vest.
If you are traveling with small children, a special child car seat is mandatory: in many European countries, unlike Ukraine, fines for its absence have been imposed for quite some time. Moreover, it is a matter of child safety.
Pay attention to the windows. If the front window does not have factory tinting, there should be no other darkening on them.
Useful additions for the trip may include a navigator, paper maps, a tent (in case you cannot find accommodation in a hotel) and a flashlight.
Traveling in a Rented Car
With a driver's license and a certain amount on a bank card, you can rent a car already abroad. However, it is also very convenient to do this while still in Ukraine: in that case, you fully control your route, stops, and can see and visit more interesting places.
If you are going on vacation in a rented car, part of the hassle of preparing the necessary documentation and equipment is taken over by the lessor. Together with the pre-selected car that has undergone full maintenance, you receive:
an issued CASCO insurance, as well as a "Green Card" drawn up according to all bureaucratic standards;
car equipment in accordance with European requirements. First aid kit, low beam lamps, side and stop lights, warning triangle, tow rope – everything that may be needed on the road will be waiting for you in the car's trunk;
24/7 telephone service support, which you can contact for any non-standard road situations.
It is worth remembering that renting a vehicle for travel abroad implies: that the renter must have a certain driving experience (usually at least 5 years) and have reached a certain age (most often – over 25 years); an additional fee for a car with the possibility of leaving the country (set by the rental company).
With everything necessary, you only need to follow the traffic rules of the country you are visiting, be careful and courteous behind the wheel. Then your trip will be easy and comfortable!