Driving Abroad: Harrowing, Hilarious, and Unforgettable

Driving internationally can be daunting - but it’s often the most memorable part of a trip. In several of my travel stories, I mention renting a car and hitting the road, so I thought it was time to share some of my own experiences and tips.

Let’s start with this: not every itinerary needs a car. Many destinations offer excellent public transportation and accessible tours, including options for travelers who use mobility aids. Think carefully about the experience you want. If driving feels stressful or unnecessary, explore alternatives.

“How are you doing this?!?!”

More than once, after picking up a rental car abroad, my travel companions have looked at me wide-eyed and asked, “how are you doing this?!?!” – meaning how am I getting in a strange car in a foreign country and just … driving?

It made me stop and think, how am I doing this?!?!

My first international driving experience was in my teens, heading from Tucson to Puerto Peñasco, Mexico. That was mostly highway driving through sparsely populated areas, so it didn’t feel like a stretch. I went to Europe many times before ever driving a car there.

Then came Ireland.

Drawing the Short Straw (Literally)

My first time driving in Europe was also my most challenging: navigating Ireland’s winding roads. How did I end up driving in Ireland? I was traveling with three cousins and a friend and renting a car made sense for our itinerary. We decided two of us should drive - and to choose fairly, we drew straws. My cousin Cathy and I drew the short ones.

It turned out to be the best outcome. We were the most comfortable driving manual transmission cars – which was lucky because despite reserving an automatic car, it wasn’t available when arrived. (This is not uncommon in Europe.)

That trip was full of firsts: driving on the opposite side of the road, sitting on the opposite side of the car, and adjusting to reversed rearview and side mirrors. I encountered sheep on the road, one-lane two-way traffic roads flanked by towering hedges, and opposite direction roundabouts with no stop lights. Our front passenger became the navigator and lookout. And roundabouts? They became a team sport. If the GPS said, “take the fourth exit” – the driver could concentrate on traffic and switching gears, while the rest of the car counted down “four … three … two … one – GO!”

Dash cam video from road in Ireland. Narrow one lane blacktop road, with stone walls and fields on both sides, with a small space to pull aside and let cars pass coming from the other direction. Several cars pass by.

Why I’m Comfortable Behind the Wheel Abroad

Several experiences have helped me feel confident driving overseas. I’ve lived in small towns, suburbs, and large cities, and I’m surprisingly comfortable driving in urban environments. I spent years traveling for work, often landing in unfamiliar cities late at night, in thunderstorms or snow squalls, and picking up rental cars. I’ve driven hundreds of rental cars and developed a mental checklist that is second nature. If you haven’t had similar experiences, consider a local driving adventure –rent a car, test drive different models, or take a road trip to a nearby city to build confidence.

Tips for Driving Internationally:

Ease into it

Build time into your itinerary to adjust. In Dublin, we spent two days walking around the city and adjusting to traffic patterns before picking up our car.

Check for an International Drivers Permit

Some countries require one. AAA has helpful info, and you can apply at a local office.

Know Your Transmission

Double-check whether your reserved car is manual or automatic. Even if you’re comfortable with a manual, consider the terrain – automatics are often easier for mountainous or hilly trips.

Choose the Right Car

Smaller cars are easier on narrow roads and in tight parking spots. But European cargo areas are smaller so check to make sure it will fit people and luggage. Review insurance options carefully - US coverage doesn’t often extend to Europe, and in Ireland most credit card car coverage is excluded.

Understand the Local Traffic Rules

Research traffic rules and signage. In Scotland, for example, a white circle with a black line through it means national speed limits apply - 60 mph on two lane highways and 70 mph on four lane, divided highways.

Inspect Your Rental

Check for damage, confirm the fuel level, adjust mirrors and seats, and locate the manual or guide before leaving the lot. Drive around the rental lot to get comfortable.

Have Backup Navigation

Even with satellite navigation, have Google maps available and bring a paper map. Last year, our sat nav took us on a wild detour through the Burren en route to the Cliffs of Moher.

Know the Alcohol Limits

Blood alcohol limits are often lower abroad. Be safe and know your limit – better yet be the designated driver.

Respect Speed Limits

In the U.S., speed limits often reflect safe driving speeds. Abroad they can seem like the absolute maximum. Just because a local zips by in a tiny car doesn’t mean you should.

Consider a Dashcam

Some roads have to be seen to be believed. A dashcam can capture those unforgettable moments and make for great memories later.

Dashcam video from near Doolin, Ireland with a narrow road, pedestrians, and two-way traffic.

Pack Your Patience

Driving abroad can be unpredictable but also exhilarating. After Ireland, Cathy and I have never been intimidated driving anywhere else on Earth.

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