Belgium offers a captivating landscape for a self-drive adventure, with its medieval architecture and modern vibrancy. The heart of Europe, Brussels, features grand squares and exquisite museums that reflect the city’s rich history. Bruges, often called the “Venice of the North,” enchants with its canals and cobblestone streets. Antwerp provides artistic allure, while Ghent is known for its historic charm. The Ardennes region offers a serene escape with lush forests and rolling hills. Belgium’s diverse attractions and cultural richness make it a dream destination for self-drive enthusiasts eager to explore freely and uncover hidden gems at every turn.
Car Rental Tips
Book in Advance
Generally, we recommend that you make your reservation one month in advance so that you could choose the desired vehicle and date.
If you proceed directly to the car rental store without a booking, it is likely that the car you need might be unavailable.
If you are already a QEEQ diamond member, you only need 1$ to freeze your booking and make the rest of the payment before pick-up, which does not affect your credit card limit.
International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, which allows you to drive legally in countries that need one.
If it is inconvenient for you to apply an IDP, generate a free driver’s license translation on QEEQ.com(Japanese site only).
Tips: Please be aware that most rental companies require drivers to have held their license for at least one year. Additionally, some companies have age restrictions, and drivers under a certain age may need to pay a young driver fee.
Other Essentials to Consider
Car Phone Mount
As France law prohibits the use of mobile phones while driving, having a phone mount in your car is highly recommended.
Child Seats
France regulations require children to use appropriate car seats, or you could face significant fines. You can easily add a child seat to your booking on the rental car order page.
Car Choices
The choice of your car depends largely on the duration of your trip, passenger number, luggage amount and road conditions.
City Driving for small groups (1-3 passengers)
If you are a couple, or travel with a friend or two, or if you travel alone, a reasonably priced small car would be a good choice.
Compact size cars have 4 to 5 seats. We recommend sparing one passenger capacity so you could relax and have more space.
4 to 5 passengers including children and elderly
Medium and large size cars are recommended. These models could still possess a fair mount of space with 2 to 3 suitcases. SUVs are suitable for hybrid road conditions. Eco-friendly cars such as the Prius could save your spend on gasoline. Choose what you need giving you peace of mind on long trips.
Traveling in a group of 6 or more
It would be a wonderful experience to choose a van for everyone to have his or her own seat. These models accommodate a passenger capacity from 7 to 12 people. While it is noticeable that large cars cannot make quick and sharp turns. So we recommend renting two small or medium-sized cars if you spend a lot of time driving through towns.
Online Booking Process
We are endeavoring to make your booking as convenient as possible. Enter our website QEEQ.COM, log in, enter the required information, and follow the instructions, you are free to rent your desired car.
Insurance
What Insurances Are Available?
*For Autopilot Cars:
Insured: Protection for the person renting the car, including passenger accident insurance and personal accident insurance (PAI). This includes the personal safety of the driver, passengers, and their personal belongings.
Automobile Insurance: protection for the vehicle of the renter. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is one example.
Third-party Insurance: insurance that protects third parties other than the renter and the car rental company. Basic Third Party Liability (BTL) insurance, etc.
International car rental bookings will include the basic insurance required for car rentals: Vehicle Damage Coverage, Theft System, and Third Party Liability Insurance.
The deductible is the maximum amount of money you’re liable for in the event your rental car is damaged or stolen as long as you follow the conditions of your rental agreement. For example, the deductible is 1000 dollars, if the damage to the rented car is less than 1000 dollars, the customer pays; if the damage is more than 1000 dollars, the customer pays up to 1000 dollars; and the store’s insurance company pays for the part exceeding 1000 dollars.
Many travelers want more comprehensive coverage and purchase additional insurance. Personnel, vehicle and third-party coverage varies by insurance type. Here are some examples of common types of insurance (note: more checks means more coverage):
When and How to Purchase Insurance
There are two ways to obtain insurance: one is to purchase insurance when booking the car online; the other is to purchase insurance at the local store where the car is rented when picking up the car.
Generally, insurances provided by rental car companies usually has narrower coverage, higher premiums, so purchasing insurance online when booking the car is highly recommended.
How to Choose Insurance
If you are traveling with limited budget, it is better to choose the kind of insurance policy with the most comprehensive coverage. The main reasons are:
Repairing fee for the car would probably be higher abroad.
In case of an accident, the medical cost and compensation are very high.
The wider the coverage, the less the troubles you would deal with, which saves tons of time and energy.
Taking automobile insurance as an instance, comparing to common insurance policies, the most comprehensive insurance coverage, including glasses, tires, chassis protection, and considerations for special road conditions such as sand and rocks, is very necessary, but basic insurance of car rental companies usually does not include full coverage as such.
Picking Up the Car
Check Before Departure
Before proceeding to the car rental shop, make sure you have brought with you all necessary documents for picking up the vehicle, and two international credit cards is recommended to ensure that there is enough credit limit for pre-authorization.
Proceed to the Car Rentals
If there is a pickup store nearby, you could just walk there, following signs for airport rental cars.
If the rental car center is far away, there is usually a free shuttle bus bound for the rental car center. Shuttle buses run every 10 minutes approximately, so take the bus when you see the logo of your car rental company.
If the shuttle is not available, you can contact the car rental company and wait for staff member to pick you up at designated location. In case you have difficulty communicating with the store staff, please call QEEQ and we will assist you in English or other languages.
Inspect the Car
When you receive your reserved vehicle, inspect the bodywork for damage. At that time, it’s a good idea to document the entire process with your smartphone camera or take a picture of the dashboard. Because if you forgot to check the condition of your vehicle before departure, you may be charged for wronged damage repairs when you return it.
Payment
Payment is due on the day of the rental unless you are paying online or purchasing a tour package.
Insurance is usually included in the rental price, but some car rental companies offer paid options for more comprehensive coverage.
Last but not least, keep all contracts and documents safe for possible further usage. Once you have received your keys, check the seat heights, mirror positions, secure child seats, and then you are ready to go!
Traffic Rules and Signs
Cross-Border Travel Tips
When booking your rental car, make sure to select the option for “Cross-Border Travel” to see if the vehicle is permitted to be driven into other countries.
Important Tips:
When you pick up your rental car, inform the staff that you plan to drive across borders. If you don’t, your insurance might become invalid once you leave the country.
Cross-border fees need to be paid at the local rental office after you cross the border. Be sure to confirm the exact costs with the staff at the local office.
If the car you want to rent isn’t allowed for cross-border travel, it could be due to the rental company’s policies or restrictions on that specific vehicle model. In such cases, try choosing a different rental company or a different vehicle model.
Traffic Rules
Drive on the Right
In Belgium, please remember to drive on the right side of the road, with the driver’s seat positioned on the left.
Pedestrians Have Priority
Always give way to pedestrians. They have the right of way, so be prepared to stop for them at crosswalks and intersections.
Always Wear Seat Belts
Everyone in the car must wear a seat belt, including passengers in the back seats.
Child Safety Seats
Children under the age of 12 or shorter than 1.35 meters must use appropriate child safety seats and can only sit in the back seat.
No Phone Use
Drivers are prohibited from using hand-held mobile phones while driving. Utilizing a Bluetooth headset is recommended if phone use is necessary.
Use Headlights Daytime
It’s common for locals to drive with their headlights on during the day.
Respect the Right of Way
Right of way holds significant importance on Belgian roads. Whether or not there’s signage, the vehicle with the right of way has priority. Key rules to remember include yielding to straight-ahead driverswhen turning, giving way from side roads to main roads, and yielding to traffic already in the roundabout. The Belgian take these right-of-way rules seriously, often maintaining speed if they have priority. To avoid accidents, be vigilant and concede if you do not have the right of way.
Essential Items
Every vehicle is required to have the following: a warning triangle, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a reflective vest.
Signs
STOP Signs
In Belgium, the STOP sign is as authoritative as a red traffic light. All vehicles must come to a complete stop at this sign. Even if there are no other vehicles or pedestrians, drivers are required to stop for a full three seconds, check the intersection for safety, and only then proceed.
Yield Signs
The yield sign indicates that you should slow down and be prepared to stop, giving priority to other vehicles and pedestrians. Ensure safety before proceeding, and come to a complete stop if pedestrians are present.
Right of Way Sign
This sign signifies that your vehicle has priority on this road, allowing you to proceed while other vehicles yield. However, always follow traffic lights if they are present.
Roundabout Sign
Belgium features many roundabouts. When approaching, be sure to yield to vehicles already in the roundabout. Stop if necessary, and remember that vehicles coming from the left have the right of way.
Speed Limit Sign
In Belgium, adhering to speed limits is essential. Highways typically have a maximum speed of 120 km/h and a minimum of 70 km/h. National roads range from 70 to 90 km/h, while urban areas are limited to 50 km/h. At city entrances and school zones, the limit is 30 km/h. Speeding fines vary from €50 to €300, depending on the severity.
In larger cities, one-way streets are common. Missing a turn can lead to lengthy detours, so be sure to switch lanes early when preparing to turn.
Toll Information
Belgium generally does not have toll roads, with the exception of the Antwerp Liefkenshoek Tunnel. This tunnel charges based on distance, and fees are collected at toll booths. The cost varies depending on the payment method, with credit card payments typically being cheaper. Fees range from €6 to €19.
Fueling
Fueling Services
Getting fuel in Belgium is easy, with plenty of stations around, many of which have convenience stores. Prices are generally between €1.5 and €2 per liter, with diesel being slightly cheaper than gasoline. You’ll find that fuel is often less expensive in suburban areas compared to city centers.
Make sure to check your car’s fuel cap or manual for the right type of fuel. If you’re unsure, ask the rental staff when you pick up the vehicle. If you accidentally use the wrong fuel, contact the rental company immediately to prevent any damage.
Refueling Options
Belgium offers both self-service and full-service stations. Most accept credit cards and cash.
Self-Service: Insert your credit card, enter your PIN, and start fueling. Once done, print your receipt and take your card. Some stations have shops where you can pay as well.
Full-Service: Attendants are on hand to help, and you can pay with cash or credit card.
Parking Guidelines
Where to Park
Free Limited-Time Parking
These spots are usually near residential areas in older parts of town. They’re free but have time limits. You need to display a parking disc on your dashboard, set to your arrival time. If you don’t have a disc or stay too long, you might get fined or towed. For example, if a sign says you can park for three hours, set your disc and place it on the windshield. This is a good option if you can leave within the time limit.
Metered Parking
Found in business districts, metered parking has two types:
A flat hourly rate, allowing you to park all day, often free on Sundays or holidays, as noted on the meter.
A rate that increases the longer you park, ranging from €0.5 to €2.6 per hour. If you’re unsure about the signs, ask a local.
Always put your parking ticket on the dashboard to avoid fines.
Park and Ride (P+R)
Park and Ride lots are located outside the city. You park your car and take a bus or tram into town. These lots are cheaper, and with a parking card, you can ride buses to city attractions for free, though trams might require a fare.
Where Not to Park
Avoid parking in spots reserved for disabled drivers, near building entrances, by fire hydrants, or at bus stops. Unless you have a disabled permit, these areas are off-limits.
Do not park where no-parking signs are posted.
Paying for Parking
Public Parking Lots
In underground garages and multi-story car parks, take a ticket when you enter. Before leaving, pay at the machine using your ticket. You’ll typically have about 15 minutes to exit after paying. This method is convenient since you don’t need to estimate your parking time, but it’s often slightly more expensive than street parking.
The process is simple: take a ticket at the entrance, park, pay before you leave, and then exit.
Street Parking
Be mindful of time limits on street parking signs, as fines for overstaying can be high. Payment is usually self-service.
Here’s how it works: park your car, go to the payment machine, select your parking duration, pay, print the ticket, and place it on your dashboard. You can pay with either a card or cash.
Accident Handling
If you are involved in a traffic accident, do not panic. Check whether the passengers are injured, help yourself and seek help from passersby. Emergency contacts are available at any time.
For the rental company’s phone, please refer to your rental confirmation.
Here are the steps to handle different types of accidents:
Minor Collisions
Ensure everyone’s safety.
Move the vehicle to the side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic.
Call 112 to report the accident.
Take photos or videos of the vehicle’s condition.
Have the police document the accident and keep the accident report.
Contact the rental company and your insurance provider.
Vehicle Break-Ins or Theft
Call 112 to report the incident.
Have the police document the incident.
File an insurance claim.
Verify the information.
Receive compensation.
Vehicle Breakdown
Open the car’s trunk and hood.
Hang a white object on the door handle to signal for help.
Call the rental company.
The rental company will dispatch staff for towing or repairs.
If the rental company cannot resolve the issue, ask the police for towing assistance. Repair costs can be high, so having full insurance is important.
Car Return Process
Important Reminders
After your enjoyable road trip, it’s essential to return the vehicle on time. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact the 24-hour customer service hotline.
Car Return Tips
Refuel Before Returning
If your rental agreement requires a full tank upon return, make sure to refuel within 5 kilometers of the drop-off location and keep the receipt to show the rental staff.
Keep the Car Clean
Return the car in a clean condition to avoid cleaning fees. Note that smoking in the car may also result in additional charges.
Reconcile the Fee
When you return the car, the staff will inspect it and provide a final invoice. Carefully review the invoice and address any discrepancies immediately or contact customer service for clarification.
Keep the Contract and Document
Retain the rental agreement and receipts after returning the car for future reference.
Early or Late Return
Early Returns
Returning the car early usually does not result in a refund for unused days.
Late Returns
If you need to return the car late, call the rental location in advance to get approval and confirm any additional charges.
After-Hours Returns
If you can’t return the car during business hours, check if the rental location allows after-hours returns. If permitted,
Park in the designated area
Lock the car
Take photos of the fuel gauge, odometer, and car exterior
Drop the keys in the key/drop-off box.
Note that you are responsible for the car until the rental location reopens. To avoid issues, it’s best to return the car when staff are present.
Help after Trip
Traffic Citation
Unexpected Charges After Returning Home
If you find unexpected charges on your account after your trip, it might be due to traffic fines that the rental company paid for you. These charges often include an extra administrative fee. If you’re unsure about the details, reach out to the rental company’s customer service for clarification.
How to Handle Fines
If the police catch a violation, they usually issue a fine on the spot and provide an official receipt.
If a traffic camera captures the violation, you’ll receive a notice from the rental company.
If the rental company pays the fine for you, expect a higher charge due to their service fees.
If they don’t handle the payment, you’ll need to pay it yourself. Follow the instructions on the fine notice, enter the fine number and your credit card details on the specified website.
Make sure to pay fines promptly to avoid late fees, which can be quite steep.
Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check your route for toll roads, bridges, and common traffic rules to avoid violations. If you do get a fine, pay it as soon as possible to avoid additional charges.
No Violations During Rental
If you don’t incur any violations during your rental, the deposit will usually be refunded to the primary driver’s credit card within a month.
Insurance Claim
If you bought a full coverage insurance, you would receive a fast claim settlement. The following documents should be prepared:
Passport
Driver’s License
Credit Card Checkback History
The Car Rental Contract
Car Damage Deduction Bill
For more detailed information, check the terms and conditions of insurance company:
In Brussels, beyond the iconic Grand Place and Atomium, explore the Horta Museum to admire Victor Horta’s Art Nouveau architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the Comic Strip Route, where vibrant street art celebrates Belgium’s beloved comic characters like Tintin and The Smurfs, adding a playful touch to your visit.
Flanders
Flanders offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from the historic Antwerp Zoo, one of the world’s oldest, to the Bokrijk Open Air Museum near Genk, showcasing rural Flemish life. For a coastal retreat, visit De Haan, a charming town with Belle Époque architecture and beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Wallonia
Wallonia captivates with its natural and historical wonders. Discover Durbuy, the “smallest city in the world,” with its quaint streets and picturesque landscapes. Explore the Caves of Han near Rochefort, one of Europe’s largest cave systems, and visit the medieval Château de Bouillon for stunning views and a journey into the past.
