Updated
March 07, 2016.
The first step for how to save money on an international car rental is preparation. This is a transaction you should consider carefully at home, weeks or months prior to departure.
Naturally, you'll want to avoid most of the common mistakes made on car rentals in your own country.
You will discover that there are restrictions based on your destination. Some require more paperwork than others. It will be your responsibility to know the rules of the road and the extent to which you must protect yourself from added fees and potential trouble.
An example: to be safe, it's best to obtain an international driver permit.
You can find one through the American Automobile Association for a nominal fee. They're not required everywhere, but the literature that comes with it is a valuable resource.
If you'll be crossing international borders, be aware that you could cross into a country that requires the permit. In essence, this license is little more than a translation of your home license.