What You Should Know When Renting a Car for the First Time

Whether you need a vehicle for a business trip, vacation, or simply want more freedom during your stay in another city, it's important to get informed in advance so everything goes smoothly.

Choose a reliable agency

The first step is selecting a trustworthy car rental agency. Pay attention to customer reviews, flexible booking options, and clearly defined rental conditions. If you need a car immediately upon arrival, a rent a car airport option is ideal, allowing you to pick up the vehicle directly at the airport without additional transportation. Transparent pricing and clearly stated policies on the agency's website are also a good sign of reliability.

Booking in advance – the key to savings

Just like with airline tickets, booking in advance often means a lower price. If you're looking for a cheap rent a car in Belgrade, we recommend not waiting until the last minute, but instead booking online several days (or weeks) before your pickup date. Also, check for promotional offers or discounts for longer rentals. Some agencies also offer loyalty programs for returning customers, which can result in additional savings over time.

Choose the right vehicle category for your needs

When renting a vehicle for the first time, it’s important to choose a model that suits your needs. If you’re planning city drives, a compact car is a good choice. For longer trips and more passengers, a sedan or SUV might be a better option. Don’t forget to check whether the car has an automatic or manual transmission, depending on your driving habits. Also, consider trunk size—especially if you’re traveling with lots of luggage or sports equipment.

Insurance and deposit

One of the most common misunderstandings in car rentals involves insurance. Agencies usually offer basic insurance but may also offer additional packages. Make sure to find out what is included in the price and whether there’s a damage liability fee.

Fuel policy

When renting a car, fuel policy is an important factor to consider. The most common model is "full tank – full tank," meaning you pick up the car with a full tank and are expected to return it the same way. This is a practical and fair solution since you only pay for the fuel you use. Other options, like prepaying for fuel and returning the car with an empty tank, are often not as cost-effective.

Minimum age and driving license

In most cases, you must be at least 21 years old and have held a driving license for at least one year. However, some agencies apply additional fees for young drivers or require a minimum age of 25 for certain vehicle categories. Check the conditions before booking. Also, it’s essential to have a valid driving license—and for foreign nationals, sometimes an international driving permit is required.

Vehicle pick-up and return

When picking up the vehicle, inspect it thoroughly with the agency representative and note any existing damage. It’s also recommended to take photos of the car from multiple angles. The same applies when returning the car—this is the best way to avoid misunderstandings. Returning the vehicle at the agreed time is also important, as delays can result in extra charges or a full additional rental day.

Additional services and equipment

If you need GPS, a child seat, or winter equipment, be sure to request it during booking. These items are usually charged extra, but they can significantly improve your travel comfort. Some agencies also offer Wi-Fi devices, snow chains, or bike racks—everything you need for a safe and comfortable trip.

Basic driving rules in Serbia

If you're driving in Serbia for the first time, it's useful to know the basic traffic rules. Driving is on the right-hand side, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are clearly marked—usually 50 km/h in urban areas, 80–100 km/h outside cities, and 130 km/h on highways. Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited, with a legal blood alcohol limit of 0.2‰. During the winter period (from November 1 to April 1), winter equipment is mandatory. Respecting traffic regulations not only ensures your safety but also helps avoid fines and additional rental costs.

With good preparation and understanding of the basics, renting a car can be a simple and pleasant experience. Follow the recommendations and get informed in advance so you can enjoy every moment of your journey worry-free.