I still remember the first time I drove abroad. My palms were sweaty, I overthought every roundabout, and I was convinced I’d somehow end up on the wrong side of the road within seconds. If you’re feeling even a tiny bit like that right now, I get it. Driving in a different country can feel a lot! With unfamiliar roads, different rules, new signs and sometimes even driving on the opposite side, I understand that it’s scary.
But here’s the reassuring truth: it’s one of those things that feels far scarier in your head than it actually is in real life.
Once you get going, you adapt surprisingly quickly. And the freedom it gives you? Completely worth it.
So if you’re about to take the plunge, whether that’s planning a road trip or simply looking into something like car hire in Rhodes, here are my tried-and-tested tips to help you feel more confident behind the wheel.
1. Do your research (but don’t overwhelm yourself)
Before you go, spend a bit of time getting familiar with the basics:
- Which side of the road they drive on
- Speed limits
- Road signs (especially the unusual ones)
- Local driving quirks
You don’t need to memorise everything, honestly, that’ll just stress you out more, but having a rough idea helps you feel less out of your depth.
For example, in the Canary Islands they don’t really use roundabouts properly. Everyone tends to stay in the outside lane of a roundabout, even if they’re going all the way around! It’s not a big deal but it’s worth knowing to avoid getting stuck on the inside lane of a roundabout.
2. Choose an automatic if you can
If you’re already feeling nervous, don’t add gear changes into the mix.
Hiring an automatic takes away a huge chunk of mental effort, especially if:
- You’re driving on the opposite side of the road
- You’re dealing with busy traffic
- You’re navigating unfamiliar places
It’s one of the easiest ways to make the whole experience feel calmer. It might take a little minute to get used to an automatic so just drive around the car hire car park a bit until you get the hang of it!
3. Pick up your car during quiet hours
This is a game-changer.
Avoid rush hour or busy airport times if possible. Early morning or mid-afternoon tends to be much quieter, giving you space to:
- Get used to the car
- Adjust your mirrors and seat
- Ease into driving without pressure
Your first 20 minutes set the tone so make them as stress-free as possible.
I actually like picking up a hire car at night. The roads are quieter and you can see where all the other cars are due to their headlights!
4. Don’t plan a long drive on day one
You don’t need to go from zero to road trip hero immediately.
On your first day:
- Stick to a short, simple journey
- Avoid complicated city centres
- Give yourself time to get comfortable
Think of it as a “practice run” rather than a big travel day.
5. Use Google Maps (and download offline maps)
Sat nav is your best friend when driving abroad.
Before you go:
- Download offline maps in case you lose signal
- Bring a phone holder so you’re not fumbling and can clearly see your directions
- Turn on voice directions
And don’t worry if you miss a turn, it happens to everyone. The beauty of modern navigation is that it simply reroutes you.
6. Take your time
One of the biggest mindset shifts? You don’t need to drive like a local. Let faster drivers overtake you. Stay in the slower lane. Give yourself extra time for everything.
There is absolutely no prize for rushing but there is peace of mind in going at your own pace.
I often worry about what people will think and have to remind myself that they’re not thinking anything! You’ll also be clearly labelled in a hire car with a big sticker on the back. Everyone knows you’re a tourist driving on unfamiliar roads.
7. Learn how to handle roundabouts (the calm way)
Roundabouts abroad can feel intimidating, especially if the direction of traffic is reversed.
Here’s what helps:
- Slow down earlier than you normally would
- Watch what other drivers are doing (they often don’t use lanes like we do!)
- Don’t be afraid to go around twice if needed
I’ve done that more than once and honestly, no one notices or cares (and little passengers in the back find it hilarious!)
8. Check parking rules carefully
Parking is often where confusion creeps in.
Look out for:
- Colour-coded lines
- Pay-and-display systems
- Permit-only areas
When in doubt, choose:
- Official car parks
- Hotel parking
- Clearly marked public spaces
It might cost a bit more, but it’s worth avoiding fines (and stress).
9. Keep important documents handy
Make sure you have:
- Your driving licence
- Rental agreement
- Insurance details
- Passport (sometimes required)
Keep them somewhere easy to reach, not buried in your suitcase.
10. Give yourself a confidence boost before you go
This sounds simple, but it makes a difference.
Before your trip:
- Practice driving in unfamiliar areas at home
- Try a different car if you can
- Remind yourself that you can do this
Because you genuinely can.
A quick but important guide to hiring a car (without the stress)
Let’s talk about one of the biggest sources of anxiety: actually hiring the car in the first place.
I used to find this part just as nerve-wracking as the driving itself. All the small print, insurance options, and horror stories you hear online. But once you know what to look for, it becomes so much easier.
Choose a reputable company
This is not the time to go for the absolute cheapest deal you can find.
Stick to:
- Well-known international brands
- Highly rated local companies
- Providers with clear, transparent pricing
Read reviews and look for comments about:
- Hidden fees
- Customer service
- Ease of pickup and return
A slightly higher price is often worth it for peace of mind.
Understand the insurance (this is key)
Insurance is where things can get confusing quickly, particularly when you’re discussing it in different languages.
Typically, you’ll see:
- Basic coverage included
- Optional excess reduction
- Additional protection packages
What matters most is the excess which is the amount you’d have to pay if something happens.
Take photos and/or videos of the car before you leave
This is non-negotiable.
Before you drive off:
- Walk around the car
- Take photos and videos of any scratches or dents
- Check the wheels and windscreen
Even if everything looks fine, document it anyway.
It takes two minutes and can save you a lot of hassle later.
Check fuel policy and return rules
Fuel policies can vary:
- Full-to-full (best option)
- Prepaid fuel
- Return at same level
Make sure you understand:
- Where the nearest petrol station is
- What time the car needs to be returned
- What condition it should be in
Returning the car late or incorrectly can lead to extra charges.
Bring the right documents and payment method
Most rental companies will require:
- A credit card in the driver’s name
- Your driving licence
- Sometimes an International Driving Permit
Double-check this before you travel as it’s a common (and frustrating) mistake.
Don’t be pressured at the desk
When you pick up your car, you might be offered:
- Upgrades
- Extra insurance
- Add-ons like GPS or child seats
Take a moment. You don’t have to say yes to everything. Sometimes when they’re speaking quickly and with broken English it can feel confusing and a little aggressive as they pressure you upgrade. You don’t need to. Just keep saying no to all the upgrades until they give you the keys.
If you’ve done your research in advance, you’ll know exactly what you need and what you don’t.
Final thoughts: you’ve got this
Driving abroad might feel intimidating at first, but it quickly becomes one of the most empowering and exciting parts of your trip.
There’s something incredibly freeing about:
- Discovering hidden beaches
- Stopping at random viewpoints
- Exploring places you’d never reach otherwise
And that nervous feeling? It fades faster than you expect. So take a deep breath, start the engine, and go gently. You don’t need to be perfect, just steady, aware and willing to learn as you go.
Before you know it, you’ll be the one giving advice to other first-time drivers… just like I am now.
