Renting a car on holiday abroad can be one of the most annoying tasks on your trip. With hidden charges, crazy high security deposits, and rental desks that often work with systems that seem to be set in the 1990s, it can quickly turn your easy-going holiday into a logistical nightmare.

That is why, on a recent trip of mine, I decided to look beyond the big-name rental companies and try something new: Localrent.com.

If you are unfamiliar with Localrent, it is an online platform that allows travelers to connect with local car rental businesses, particularly in both popular resorts and off-the-beaten-path places. As a kind of aggregator, Localrent joins smaller local car rental companies so that customers might have greater access to vehicles for usually better prices while also requiring much lower deposits than the majors.

I had seen a few travelers mention Localrent and figured I would give it a shot. I was definitely skeptical at first and was pleasantly surprised after my experience using the platform right from booking to drop-off.

Here is a rundown of what exactly happened, what I liked, what I didn’t like, and whether or not I think Localrent is worth your time (and money).

Booking with Localrent.com: A Pleasant Change

First and foremost, I noted how easy and transparent the entire booking process was.

No confusing terminology. No fine print hidden in 8-point font. No obligatory upsells. Just a simple list of cars, actual prices, and details that matter: fuel policy, deposit, insurance, and what’s included.

I selected my compact automatic car, confirmed my booking with a minimal deposit, and within an hour I had a friendly confirmation from a local agent.

It felt far more personal than booking with a nameless corporate counter and it made all the difference.

What I Liked About My Localrent Experience

1. Transparent Pricing (Finally!)

No shady up-sells or hidden fees at pickup. The price I found online matched the fee at pickup.

 2. Much Lower Deposits than Anywhere Else

After paying a third-party deposition, rental agencies typically hold $300 or more on my card. Localrent had a reasonable deposit, and I have also seen options that require no deposit!

3. Simple, Stress Free Pickup

My car was delivered to my hotel – on time, clean and exactly as advertised. No waiting in line at an airport kiosk, no paperwork circus.

4. Fantastic Communication

The local agent Whatsapped me the night before and then again the morning of pickup. Super quick to communicate and super helpful. Honestly, it felt more like borrowing a car from a friend than a rental company.

5. The Car Quality was great

I’ve rented cars where I had to pray that the car survived the trip…. not here. The car was spotless, reliable and drove like a new car

Things To Be Aware of From other People

Beyond my experience being very good, I researched other reviews – here are some important notes to take into consideration while you consider booking:

1. Service will vary, location to location

Because Localrent partners with many local companies that are independent, there will not be the same experience for every agent. Even reviews in smaller towns, or in less touristy spots, talked about unprofessional agents and unorganized pickups.

2. Be extra cautious of the fuel level

A few customers were charged for not returning the car at the exact same fuel level. Here’s a tip always take a photo of the fuel level when picking up and for dropping off. It could save you a lot of headache.

3. A few references about shady agents

Although rare, a few of the reviewers mentioned agents had tried to claim damage that was not there. Regardless of car rentals, you should take detailed photos of every angle when you pick-up and drop-off the car. Just in case.

Where You Can Use Localrent.com

Localrent is now operating in various countries where traditional car rental options might be limited, expensive, or inconvenient. Localrent is very strong in, amongst others, Georgia, Montenegro, Cyprus, Armenia, Bulgaria, Turkey, Albania, Thailand and even Europe. All these locations have independent providers who are flexible and have expertise and knowledge of the area, which is very useful for guests. While the travel market continues to ask for more personalized and transparent rental experiences, Localrent is strengthening its presence in emerging travel markets while providing travelers with an alternative to large corporate rental chains.

Final Verdict: Will I Use Localrent Again?

Yes, absolutely.

Localrent.com takes modern travel booking and combines it with local service. I loved bypassing the corporate, and getting a real, human experience.

Yes, it’s not perfect – do your due diligence, and use providers that have good reviews. But for transparency on prices, personal service, and easy pickups, it was one of the best rental experiences I have had while abroad.