Traveling abroad often means you’ll need a reliable way to get around—whether that’s exploring hidden beaches in Cyprus, road-tripping through the mountains of Georgia, or discovering small towns in Portugal. While big international rental companies dominate search results, they often come with hidden fees, high deposits, and frustrating fine print.
Enter Localrent.com: a platform that connects travelers directly with local car rental providers in dozens of countries worldwide. With transparent pricing, lower deposits, and a traveler-first approach, it has quickly become a favorite among independent travelers.
In this review and guide, I’ll break down exactly how Localrent works, its pros and cons, booking process, supported destinations, and share practical tips to get the most out of your rental. By the end, you’ll know if Localrent.com is the right choice for your next trip.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What is Localrent?
Localrent is an aggregator platform that allows you to compare and book cars from small, independent rental companies across the globe. Founded in Montenegro in 2011, it started as a regional service but has since expanded to more than 20 countries including Spain, Greece, Georgia, Bulgaria, Thailand, UAE, and Vietnam.
Instead of dealing with faceless corporations, Localrent connects you directly with local businesses. This means:
- Transparent prices with no hidden fees.
- Lower deposits (many rentals don’t require a deposit at all).
- Personal service from local providers.
👉 Book Your Rental Car Now with Localrent
Why Choose Localrent Over Traditional Rental Companies?
Travelers often compare Localrent to big names like Hertz, Europcar, or Sixt. Here are the key differences:
1. Clear, All-Inclusive Pricing
Unlike traditional companies that might surprise you with airport fees, insurance add-ons, or fuel charges, Localrent shows the total cost upfront. What you see is what you pay.
2. Lower or No Deposits
Many international rental companies hold $800–$1500 on your credit card. Localrent’s average deposit is around €300, and many rentals require no deposit at all.
3. Flexibility and Local Touch
Localrent offers flexibility like one-way rentals, unlimited mileage options, and even the possibility of renting electric and hybrid cars in some destinations. Plus, you’re supporting small businesses.
4. Traveler-Friendly Conditions
- Minimum age often starts at 18 with one year of driving experience (instead of 21 or 25 with the majors).
- Paperwork is quick and straightforward.
- No aggressive upselling at the counter.
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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book a Car with Localrent
Booking with Localrent is simple, but let’s walk through the process step by step so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Search for Your Destination
Go to Localrent and choose your country and city. For example: “Tbilisi, Georgia.
Step 2: Filter Your Options
You’ll see available cars from different local providers. Use filters to select:
- Car type (SUV, sedan, economy, minivan, luxury)
- Transmission (manual/auCountries Where Localrent OperatesLocalrent has expanded rapidly over the last decade. Here are some popular destinations where you can book:
- Europe: Montenegro, Georgia, Bulgaria, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Czech Republic, Albania, Middle East: UAE, TurkeyAsia: Thailand, Vietnam, MauritiusOther: Iceland, Cyprus Each country page on Localrent provides details on driving rules, insurance options, and local requirements. This makes it a great resource not only for booking but also for planning your road trip.
- Fuel type (petrol/diesel/electric)
- Mileage options (limited or unlimited)
- Insurance packages
Step 3: Review Rental Terms
Localrent makes it easy to see conditions upfront: deposit amount, mileage limits, cancellation policies, and driver age requirements.
Step 4: Pay a Small Deposit
To secure your booking, you typically pay 15–20% of the total price online. The rest is paid directly to the provider when you pick up the car.
Step 5: Receive Confirmation
You’ll get a voucher by email with all the details, including the local provider’s contact information.
Step 6: Pick Up Your Car
At pickup, you’ll usually sign a short rental contract, show your driver’s license, and inspect the vehicle together with the provider. Simple and quick.
👉Reserve Your Car with Localrent Today
Pros and Cons of Using Localrent
No platform is perfect. Let’s look at both sides.
Pros
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
- Lower deposits compared to big companies
- Wide range of local cars, including budget and luxury options
- Easy booking process, only partial prepayment required
- Strong customer support and clear policies
- Excellent reviews on Trustpilot (4.8/5 average)
Cons
- Fleet quality depends on the local provider (cars may be older)
- Coverage not as global as big brands (not available in North America)
- Some destinations have fewer automatic cars available
- Insurance terms can vary slightly between providers
Customer Reviews: What Travelers Say
Localrent boasts thousands of positive reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and Skyscanner. Common themes include:
- Friendly and fast service at pickup.
- Cars in good condition for local driving conditions.
- No unpleasant surprises with extra fees.
That said, a few reviewers mentioned cars being slightly older than expected, or minor communication issues with smaller providers. However, Localrent’s support team usually steps in quickly to resolve disputes.
Localrent vs DiscoverCars vs Rentalcars.com
How does Localrent compare to other popular rental aggregators?
| Feature | Localrent.com | DiscoverCars.com | Rentalcars.com |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deposit Required | Often none / ~€300 | €300–€1500 | €500–€1500 |
| Pricing | Transparent, no fees | Transparent but occasional add-ons | Hidden fees possible |
| Coverage | 20+ countries | 145+ countries | 160+ countries |
| Car Quality | Local providers, mixed | Big brands + local | Big brands only |
| Flexibility | High (age, mileage) | Moderate | Low |
Localrent shines in user-friendly policies and supporting local businesses, while platforms like DiscoverCars and Rentalcars may offer broader global coverage.
Tips for Renting with Localrent
Here are a few insider tips to make your rental even smoother:
- Book Early in Peak Season – In destinations like Georgia or Montenegro, cars sell out fast during summer.
- Check Deposit Requirements – Some providers offer “no deposit” rentals—great if you don’t want to block funds on your card.
- Inspect the Car Thoroughly – Take photos/videos at pickup and drop-off to avoid disputes.
- Know the Driving Rules – For example, in Georgia, some mountain roads require a 4×4.
- Choose Unlimited Mileage – It’s usually worth the small extra fee if you plan road trips.
- Bring the Right License – Most destinations accept your national license, but some (like Thailand) may require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Is Localrent Legit?
Yes. Localrent.com is a legitimate company with more than a decade of operations, trusted by tens of thousands of travelers each year. With excellent reviews on independent platforms and partnerships with Skyscanner and Aviasales, it is a safe and reliable way to rent cars abroad.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Localrent?
If you’re traveling in Europe, Asia, or the Middle East and want:
- Affordable, transparent car rentals,
- Lower deposits and flexible conditions,
- To support local businesses rather than big corporations,
then Localrent.com is one of the best options available.
It may not yet be as global as some of its competitors, but where it operates, it offers unbeatable value and traveler-friendly service.
👉 Start Your Journey with Localrent
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need a credit card to rent via Localrent?
Not always. Some providers allow debit card payments and even cash deposits.
2. What’s the minimum age to rent a car?
Usually 18 with at least 1 year of driving experience, but some cars require drivers to be 23+.
3. What insurance is included?
Basic insurance is included in all rentals. You can often add CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) or full coverage for peace of mind.
4. Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, most bookings can be canceled for free up to 24–48 hours before pickup.
5. What happens if the car breaks down?
Localrent providers offer roadside assistance. The details are listed in your booking confirmation.
6. Is Localrent cheaper than other sites?
In most destinations, yes. Especially when you factor in the lower deposits and lack of hidden fees.
Final Thoughts
Renting a car abroad doesn’t need to be stressful or expensive. With Localrent.com, you get clear prices, reliable local providers, and the flexibility that major rental companies often lack. Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, the mountains of Georgia, or the beaches of Thailand, Localrent can help you get there stress-free.
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