Top 5 mistakes when renting a car in Georgia and how to avoid them

Renting a car in Georgia is a popular choice among tourists seeking to explore scenic routes on their own and enjoy the splendor of mountain roads, ancient monasteries and seaside resorts. However, inexperienced travelers often encounter difficulties and make mistakes that can spoil the impression of the trip and increase costs. In this article we will analyze the most common mistakes when renting a car in Georgia and tell you how to avoid them.

1. Choosing the wrong type of car

Mistake: Many renters choose a car based on the cost of the rental without considering the specifics of Georgia's roads. This leads to low-powered passenger cars failing to handle mountainous sections, and economy options becoming a problem on rocky or unpaved roads.

How to avoid: Before renting, evaluate the route you plan to travel. If you are only going to explore major cities such as Tbilisi or Batumi, you can limit yourself to the economy class. However, if you are planning a trip to the mountainous regions of Svaneti, Kazbegi, or to protected areas, it is better to choose a four-wheel drive car or crossover. These cars are easier to cope with sharp ascents, descents and rough roads.

2. Ignoring the terms of the lease

Mistake: One of the most common blunders is a superficial reading of the rental agreement. Some travelers agree to the terms and conditions without studying the mileage limits, the list of possible penalties and the rules of returning the car. This can turn out to be very costly if, for example, the mileage turns out to be limited and you exceed the limit.

How to avoid: Read the entire lease agreement. Pay special attention to the sections on mileage restrictions, fuel policy, return policy, and penalties. Find out how the return of the car is handled and what documents you need to sign. Also ask the rental company about possible hidden fees to get an accurate idea of the final cost.

3. Lack of attention to insurance

Mistake: Insurance is another frequent topic of misconception. By taking the minimum package, renters believe they are adequately protected, but in the event of an accident, they will have to cover some of the costs themselves. In addition, not everyone understands the difference between deductible and comprehensive insurance, which can lead to unpleasant surprises in the end.

How to avoid: Familiarize yourself with insurance options and their coverage. Full coverage without a deductible (CDW and SCDW) is the best choice, as it will cover most of the losses if the car is damaged. Be sure to check with the rental company to find out exactly what is covered and what the deductible will be in the event of an accident. If you plan to visit mountainous areas, where the risk of damage is higher, do not spare money for extended insurance.

4. Failure to take into account local parking and traffic regulations

Mistake: Traffic rules in Georgia may be a bit different from the usual standards, and parking rules are sometimes violated even by locals. Some travelers don't pay attention to road signs, resulting in fines or vehicle towing. In addition, many popular parking lots are paid, and penalties can be assessed for late payment.

How to avoid: Learn the basic traffic rules of Georgia and learn about the parking system. In big cities like Tbilisi, many zones are paid and payment can be made via apps, special machines or SMS. Leave your car only in designated parking lots to avoid fines. Remember that parking in unauthorized places can lead to the evacuation of the car, which means additional costs for its return.

5. Neglecting to inspect the vehicle upon pickup and return

Mistake: Failure to inspect the car upon pickup or return is another common mistake. Travelers often trust the company, assuming that it will issue a fully serviceable and undamaged car. As a result, when returning the car, the renter may be asked to compensate for scratches or malfunctions already present.

How to avoid: When you receive the car, inspect it carefully for scratches, dents and other damage. Take photos and videos, documenting the condition of the car from all angles, especially if there is damage. This will help avoid false accusations of damage. When you return the car, inspect it again with a company employee and make sure that any damage that occurred during the rental is accounted for on the return report.

Additional tips for renting a car in Georgia

1. Plan your rental in advance. This will help you choose more favorable conditions and bypass possible seasonal price increases. Booking early will allow you to get a wider selection of cars, especially during the high tourist season.

2. Make sure you have a full tank of gas. When returning a car, it is often required to be returned with a full tank. Otherwise, the company may charge an additional refueling fee at a higher price.

3. If you have plans to cross the border with a rental car, discuss this with the company. Some companies prohibit taking the car outside Georgia or require additional documents.

4. Be aware of fines. Georgia has a video surveillance system and violations are automatically recorded. Even if you do not notice the violation, the fine may be issued later and the company will deduct the amount from your card.

5. Save all receipts and receipts. This will help resolve possible disputes. Keep receipts for gasoline, parking fees, as well as the rental agreement and inspection reports when returning the car.

Renting a car in Georgia can be a great opportunity to explore the country at a comfortable pace and enjoy its beauties without restrictions. However, it is important to approach the process consciously, take into account the peculiarities of local conditions and carefully study the contract.