More and more people are choosing to travel overseas by car, as it allows them to avoid relying on public transport and gives them full control over their schedule, resulting in a liberating journey. However, there are potential risks involved in driving abroad, such as the car accident involving Taiwanese tourists in Kyushu, Japan, on the 11th.
Here are 5 things to keep in mind when renting a car for travel abroad, reminding road-trippers to enjoy their journey while staying safe.
1. Get an international driver’s license
The first requirement for driving overseas is having an international driver’s license. It’s also a good idea to carry your domestic driver’s license and related documents just in case.
The international driver’s license is recognized in over 150 countries and is translated into 10 different languages. It can be obtained at any vehicle registration authority across Taiwan and is usually ready for collection on the same day.
Additionally, if you plan to drive in Japan, you need to apply for a Japanese translation version from the registration office, and you must have your Taiwanese driver’s license, the Japanese translation, and your passport to rent a car.
2. Arrange insurance
When renting a car abroad, make sure to read the rental agreement and passenger insurance details carefully. Unlike in Taiwan, where most insurance coverage is included, overseas rental contracts often don’t include comprehensive coverage. So before you set off, be sure to purchase suitable travel insurance and be fully prepared.
3. Assess your own condition
Driving overseas can be more stressful due to unfamiliar road conditions, narrow alleys, and—if you’re in a country that drives on the right, unlike Taiwan—the challenge becomes even greater.
Therefore, it’s recommended to spend some time getting familiar with driving on the right and understanding the road conditions. Only hit the road once you’re confident you can adapt to the foreign environment.
4. Follow local traffic rules
Before heading to your destination country, check the local traffic laws and common unspoken practices online—such as seatbelt use, horn etiquette, and yielding to pedestrians. Of course, always stick to the basic traffic rules.
5. Check the weather conditions
Find out the weather conditions of your travel destination in advance. When encountering rare weather in Taiwan, such as thick fog or blizzards, try to avoid driving. After all, safety should be your top priority when traveling abroad.