Last Updated on December 1, 2022 by Rachel
Renting a car in Aruba gives you the flexibility to be able to leave your resort and explore the island. Here are some special considerations you should keep in mind.
Essential Tips for Renting a Car in Aruba
Book from home.
Don’t wait until you get off the plane to rent a vehicle. It will be cheaper to book your car before leaving home.
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You can use your U.S. license.
You don’t need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Aruba. The island’s official languages are Papiamento and Dutch, but most Arubans speak a minimum of four languages, including English and Spanish. You can drive with your state-issued license without worry.
Check your insurance coverage.
All car rentals in Aruba include basic third-party liability insurance. Check to see if your credit card benefits include car rental insurance before opting for the over-the-counter CDW/LDW option, which can run $10-$20 per day.
Ask to pay in florins.
When you book your rental, stipulate that you will pay in local currency. The car rental agency will likely offer to convert the price into US dollars using Dynamic Currency Conversion if you use a credit card to pay for your rental, but that will result in a higher rate and an extra administrative fee.
Distances are in kilometers, not miles.
One notable difference between Aruba and the U.S. is that driving speeds are measured in kilometers instead of miles. The signs will also be in Spanish, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with some basic vocabulary before you go.
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Be prepared for a few driving differences.
In Aruba, they drive on the right, like in the U.S. Be aware that most streets in Oranjestad are one-way. Aruba has a lot of traffic circles; always remember that cars already in the roundabout have the right of way.
Inspect the car carefully before driving it off the lot.
Make sure to protect yourself from potential false damage claims by carefully look over your car before taking it for a spin. Document every nick, scratch or dent. Your smartphone will come in handy for taking photos of any imperfections to ensure you won’t have to pay for them later.
Related:
When it comes to renting a car, especially in an international destination like Aruba, a bit of foresight can save you time, money, and headaches. Let's dive into the concepts touched upon in the article about renting a car in Aruba:
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Booking in Advance: Pre-booking a car rental before leaving home is a money-saver. It's a practical tip that not only ensures availability but often secures better rates compared to booking on arrival due to reduced demand pressures.
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License Requirements: Understanding the local regulations regarding driving permits is crucial. In Aruba, you can use your U.S. driver's license without needing an International Driving Permit. Knowing the local languages or the prevalence of multilingualism can facilitate communication and navigation.
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Insurance Coverage: Evaluating your existing insurance coverage, including credit card benefits, can prevent redundant expenses. Car rental agencies typically offer basic insurance, but if your credit card includes rental car insurance, it might suffice, saving you from additional expenses.
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Currency Considerations: Opting to pay in local currency can often result in a more favorable exchange rate compared to using Dynamic Currency Conversion offered by rental agencies, which may come with added fees.
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Driving Differences: Knowing the local traffic rules, speed measurements, and common road signs is crucial. Aruba, for instance, uses kilometers instead of miles and has some distinct traffic rules, like driving on the right side of the road and navigating traffic circles.
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Vehicle Inspection: Thoroughly inspecting the rental car before driving off is vital. Documenting any existing damages through photographs can protect you from unjustified claims upon return.
The related topics of whether an International Driving Permit is necessary and whether to purchase additional car rental insurance are common concerns for international travelers. These aspects largely depend on the specific country's regulations, your existing insurance coverage, and personal risk tolerance.
Renting a car abroad can be liberating, but it requires a good understanding of local nuances to have a smooth experience and avoid potential pitfalls.
