What is Localrent and how it works

What is Localrent and how it works

Localrent is an aggregator of local car rental companies in Montenegro. The service does not have its own fleet but brings together offers from small local rental providers. This allows it to offer prices lower than international brands (Hertz, Avis, Sixt) and provide more flexible rental conditions. The main feature of the service is booking a specific car. Unlike large chains where you choose a car class (“VW Golf or similar”), here you see real photos, year of manufacture, color, and equipment of the exact vehicle you will receive. Car rental is available in all key locations:

• Tivat and Podgorica airports.
• Resort cities: Budva, Kotor, Petrovac, Bar, Herceg Novi.
• Delivery to a hotel or a specific address (terms are agreed upon during booking).

Prices and seasonality

The cost of car rental in Montenegro directly depends on the tourist season.

• Low season (October–April): Prices for compact cars start from 25–30 euros per day.
• High season (May–September): The cost increases to 40–60 euros per day for a similar class. During peak months (July–August), demand exceeds supply.

Payment and deposit

Localrent’s financial model is convenient for tourists who do not have credit cards from international banks.

1. Advance payment: When booking on the website, only 15–20% of the total amount is paid (Russian cards are often accepted for the advance payment; current payment gateways should be checked on the website).
2. Remaining payment: Paid on site when receiving the car. Most local rental companies accept cash in euros.
3. Deposit: The security deposit is often lower than with international companies. There are options for renting without a deposit, but the daily rate may be higher.

Driver requirements and documents

To sign a rental agreement, you need:

• International passport.
• National driving license. If the data is duplicated in Latin letters, an IDP (international driving permit) is usually not required.
• Minimum age: usually from 21 years.
• Driving experience: from 1 year.

If the driver is under 25 years old or has minimal driving experience, some rental companies may require an additional fee (“young driver fee”) or increase the deposit amount.

Insurance and crossing borders

The base price usually includes third-party liability insurance and CDW with an excess. The excess is the renter’s liability amount. If the damage is less than the excess, you pay it yourself; if more, the insurance company pays. Full coverage (Super CDW) can be purchased separately. Planning to travel to neighboring countries (Croatia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina)?

Pickup and return process

The procedure takes 15–20 minutes. When meeting the manager: Inspect the body, windows, wheels, and interior. Record all existing scratches and chips in photos/videos. Check the fuel level. The “return with the same level” rule usually applies. Sign the contract and pay the remaining amount. The return process is quick if there is no new damage. In disputed situations (scratches), your pickup photos will be the main argument.

Pros and cons of the service

Pros:

• Transparent prices with no hidden fees.
• Possibility to rent without a credit card.
• Russian-speaking support and interface.
• Clear insurance scheme.

Cons:

• Service quality depends on the specific rental company (Localrent is an intermediary).
• In high season, good cars are booked 2–3 weeks in advance.
• Older cars (over 5–7 years old) may have a worn interior.