In Belgium, your next destination will always be a short drive away. So renting a car is a great way to explore our country and maybe our neighboring country’s as well. In this article I will give you advice on renting a car in Belgium, so continue reading below.
Who can rent a car in Belgium?
To rent a car in Belgium, you must be 21 or older and have a valid European or International driver’s license issued 12 months before renting. Young drivers under 25 may face extra charges and limited vehicle options. Basic insurance is included, but it’s best to get additional glass-breaking coverage. Rental companies will require a deposit of 300€ to 800€, which can be paid in cash or credit card. After returning the car in good condition, you’ll receive your deposit back.
Why rent a car in Belgium?
Renting a car in Belgium is the perfect solution for tourists who want to explore the country’s cities, forests, and countryside. However, it’s important to consider your travel style and needs before making a decision. If you’re only planning to visit cities, the public transport system in Belgium is well-organized and can get you to your destination quickly and easily. On the other hand, if you’re interested in visiting the Ardennes forests, or planning a road trip, a rental car is the way to go.
Why you shouldn’t rent a car in Belgium
Although renting a car in Belgium offers many benefits, there are also some disadvantages to consider. Traffic in cities like Brussels and Antwerp can be congested during rush hour, and finding a parking space can be a hassle. Additionally, many cities in Belgium are introducing Low Emission Zones to reduce motorized vehicles in parts of the city, and cities like Ghent and Bruges have car-free city centers.
Renting a car in Brussels
When renting a car in Brussels, there are several options available. For travelers who fly to Brussels Airport, there’s a car rental pickup location in the airport terminal. Make sure to dubbelcheck which airport you’ll be landing, to avoid booking a rental car at Brussels-Zaventem Airport (BRU) whilst landing in Brussels-Charleroi Airport (CRL).
Travelers who arrive in Brussels by train can set their pickup location to Brussels South Station. This is also a great pickup destination for those who want to visit Brussels first before starting a car travel through the rest of the country.
Car rental companies in Belgium
There are many car rental companies in Belgium, including the most famous ones such as Avis, Sixt, Hertz, and Europcar. Each company offers different rental options, so it is important to compare prices and services to find the best option for your needs.
The best way to compare prices between different car rental companies is by using RentalCars. Use the widget below and select your pickup location to find the best deals for renting a car in Belgium
Types of rental cars in Belgium
The type of car you choose will depend on your needs and budget. In Belgium, you can choose from a range of cars, including small city cars, family-sized vehicles, and luxury cars. You can choose between manual or automatic gearbox. Nowadays most rental cars will also have airconditioning, but it’s always good to double check.
Do you want to ride green? Then you’ll be happy to hear that the fleet of hybrid and fully electric rental cars in Belgium is growing. However, make sure your accommodation offers a charging station for your EV.
Legal Requirements for renting a car in Belgium
Minimum age to rent a car in Belgium
The minimum driving age in Belgium is 18 years old, however all rental companies set a minimum age of 21 years old for renting a car. Drivers under 25 years might be charged a young driver surcharge. In addition, the choice of vehicles for young drivers under 25 might be smaller, since many car rental companies don’t allow them to rent expensive luxury cars.
Drivers licence requirements
In order to be able to rent a car, you’ll need to posses a valid European or International drivers licence. The issued date needs to be at least 12 months before renting the car. Some rental companies require you to have had your drivers licence for at least 2 years.
Insurance coverage
Basic insurance is included in the renting price. However additional insurance of breaking of glass, is always a good idea to minimize the risk.
Deposit requirements
Every rental company will ask you to pay a deposit, ranging from 300€ up to 800€, depending on the type of vehicle and length of the rental period. Deposits can generally be paid in cash or by credit card. When using debit card, it’s advised to inform on beforehand if your card will be accepted. After returning the car back in good condition, you will instantly get your deposit back.
Tips for renting a car in Belgium
- Book in advance to get better deals and a bigger choice of vehicles
- Compare prices of different rental companies, using tools like DiscoverCars
- Check the fuel policy. Most rental companies will have a full tank policy. Save some money by filling it up yourself before handing back the car.
