If 2022 was the year many returned to traveling, 2023 is the year many are returning to international traveling. AAA bookings for international travel are up 30% compared to 2022.
Most will travel to other countries by plane or by cruise ship. While abroad, some travelers may choose to rent a car to take in even more adventures along the way. Renting a vehicle can be a great way to see some of the sights off the beaten path or away from a resort or tourist area. Travelers be warned, areas away from popular tourist areas may not be safe and traveling to them or through them could put travelers, their family members or their party in danger.Passport image.PNG
“Travelers should be as informed as possible about their destinations and be aware of travel alerts highlighting security issues that could pose a danger to their safety,” says AAA spokesperson Kara Hitchens.
Driving in other countries can bring about some challenges outside of security. Some countries drive on the left side of the road, opposite of what we do in the U.S., and that can be very confusing for drivers abroad, especially when making turns and entering into traffic circles and intersections. Signs, highway design, traffic road lines and sign languages and symbols can all be hard to understand for those who are visiting a foreign destination.
Tips for driving in other countries:
Check for travel alerts at your destination to see if it’s safe to travel there. The State Department puts out travel alerts and advisories when there are country specific security concerns.
Enroll in State Department’s STEP (Safe Traveler Enrollment Program) before departing, which allows the U.S. to know where you’re going and send you security updates.
Research local laws and driving culture at the destination where you are headed and understand what is and isn’t allowed there. Research road signs and the language related to the country where you are traveling. If it seems confusing at the research phase, that may be a good indication that it’s not a good decision to drive there.
Understand the challenges that come with driving on the other side of the road if your destination is one of the countries that does that. Turning left or right on a busy road looks very different when you’re sitting on the other side of the car and driving on the left. If you aren’t up for the challenge, work with a travel advisor or the resort to arrange a trusted local driver for you.
Ask for information about the vehicle you are renting. Understand what safety features it has or doesn’t have and determine whether that works for you and your party.
Research what documents you need to carry, including whether or not your current state driver’s license is valid there. If not, sign up for an International Driver’s Permit that can be obtained at your local AAA office. (See process below)
Check on your insurance. According to the US State Department, generally, U.S. auto insurance policies do not cover drivers in other countries, except for our next door neighbors in Canada and Mexico. However, insurance coverage may not be countrywide, but limited to mileage based areas near the U.S. border. Check with your insurance provider for specific out-of-country permissions.
Talk with a trusted local rental car agent or the concierge at a resort or hotel for guidance on driving in the area. What do I need to know? What areas should I avoid?
Just like you would do back home, buckle up, everyone, every time. Avoid driving if you’ve had any alcohol or drugs. Limit distractions, like a cell phone, music or food and drink, and focus on the road in and around you.
International Driver’s Permit
For those traveling abroad and planning to do some driving while they’re there (or for those who want to keep their options open to be able to take a drive while traveling), AAA locations can process your request for an International Driving Permit. It’s good in 150 counties worldwide and translates your identification information into 10 languages.
Things to bring with you to a AAA location to apply for the license:
A filled out application
A Valid U.S. driver’s license
Two original passport photos(can be done inside the AAA store as you are applying and are free to AAA members at some coverage levels)
$20 to pay for the permit fee
Want to apply by mail? Click here for more info.
***Note: International Driving Permits may not be issued more than six months in advance of desired effect date.
AAA Roadside on the Other Side of the World
We are the American Automobile Association, but did you know your roadside coverage (and other great AAA benefits) may extend to other countries. AAA has agreements with motoring clubs in dozens of foreign countries across the globe to assist Americans who are traveling.
Some of the countries offering services to AAA members traveling abroad (partial list): Argentina, Australia, Austria, Finland, Germany, Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Italy, India, Japan, New Zealand, Paraguay and Singapore.
What’s included? That changes from country to country. For example, in Great Britain and Northern Ireland, AAA members are eligible for roadside assistance and a local tow. Down Under in Australia, AAA members traveling in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory are eligible for roadside service from the Australian Automobile Association. They can also get a 15% discount at Thrifty car rental in the country, and 10% discounts at NRMA holiday parks.
