Bulgaria is highly networked. You have countless transport options to pick from when traveling through the country. For instance, a trip from Sofia (the bustling capital of Bulgaria) to upcountry can be achieved by using a bus, plane or train.

Trains are very popular here and they are pretty fast. But if you want to travel in comfort with personalized services, you can consider renting a car from one of many car hire companies that dot the capital and the smaller towns across Bulgaria. A car hire in Sofia, for instance, is quite expensive but offers remarkable convenience when you are exploring the city.

Here is what you need to put in your mind before settling for hiring a car in Bulgaria.

First and foremost, road rules! Read and understand the road rules and regulations to stay away from trouble during your trip. Also, pay close attention to regulations concerning car hire and the requirements you need to meet.

Check the insurance cover

Just like the rest of the European Union and the rest of the world, driving around without car insurance can bring not-so-nice experience in Bulgaria. It is a little complicated when you are a foreigner. Spare some free time and have a glance at the car insurance cover. Ensure that it is up to date.

Be prepared for emergencies

No one knows what might strike when venturing in the Bulgarian hinterland. What about if the car breaks down? What happens if you get sick on the trip? These and other emergencies need to be put into consideration. Breakdown services are always provided by the car hire company in case the hired car develops problems while on the trip.

Refueling a car is a little different here

Remember to ask which type of fuel (diesel or petrol) the car uses before renting. Just like the rest of the Europe, fuel in Bulgarian filling stations is pumped in liters and not in gallons as it is the custom in Americas.

Bring your papers

It is not only the Bulgarian highway patrol officials who have an interest in your driving license and identification documents. The car hire company wants to see them as well. You are advised to bring to come with your International Driving Permit if you are a foreigner. It can prove highly useful when you are stopped by police while driving around Bulgaria. More importantly, don’t forget the passport at home.

You need to be conversant with driving standard vehicles

Like the rest of Europe, manual standard (manual transmission) vehicles are highly exalted in Bulgaria (in driving perspectives). A person with a driving license involving standard vehicles is considered to be better off than the one with an automatic license. For this reason, the car rental company has more standard vehicles than automatic. Lay clear the transmission type of your choice before renting the vehicle.

Do you have baggage? How many people are on the trip?

The size of the vehicle to rent need to be par with the number of people traveling the baggage involved. Let the hire company know the number of people traveling and the number and type of luggage so that you can be advised accordingly.

It is important to know that the legal driving age in Bulgaria is 18 years. The car hire company requires you to be 21 years or older to rent a car.