Plan to book your international car rental well before embarking on your trip – at least a week in advance, but sooner is better. Not only is it oftentimes cheaper, but you’ll have time to negotiate any potential obstacles (like age requirements), are more likely to get the type of vehicle you want, and are less likely to encounter hidden clauses in on-the-spot contracts, shifting exchange rates on arrival, or vexing language barriers that can slow the process in person. If you made your reservation online months ago, always call the particular pickup location of the arranging agency just prior to your departure to verify that your desired car will indeed be waiting on the lot for you when you arrive. It's also worth checking in on last-minute car rental rates a day or two before your reservation, as we've seen occasional cases where rates do drop – you can always then negotiate the better rate should one arise.

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