Car rental and driving advice

When renting a car in Montenegro to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina, you must request and obtain a 'border crossing permit' (dozvola za prelazak granice) from the rental company. It is required to avoid issues at the border.

Small engine cars (e.g., 1.2L) are generally capable of navigating mountainous roads in Montenegro like those to Njeguši or Ostrog. However, air conditioning performance may be reduced in hot weather, and acceleration on steep inclines might be sluggish with multiple or heavier passengers. For extensive travel across the country, a more powerful vehicle is recommended, but for shorter trips or lighter loads, a small car can be sufficient.

Montenegro is implementing a new radar-based speed control system. Modern devices will automatically detect speeding violations nationwide without requiring police presence at the radar location. Violations will be documented with photo and video evidence, and drivers will be notified via patrol or mail to the owner's address.

Traffic jams can occur unexpectedly in Montenegro. Be prepared for potential delays, such as a prolonged standstill in the Susanj area, which can last for 40 minutes or more without apparent cause. Allow extra time in your travel itinerary to account for unforeseen traffic situations.

If you experience a flat tire on a rental car without a spare, search for 'Šlep Služba' (tow truck service) in the nearest town. Contacting them is necessary for assistance with tire repair or replacement.

In Montenegro, all passengers, including children in the rear seats, are legally required to wear seatbelts. While enforcement for rear passengers might be less strict than for front passengers, fines are possible if stopped. It is advisable to always use child car seats for safety. Local car rental agencies may offer child seats; inquire in advance.

When considering car rental for travel between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro, research local rental companies and their policies. Platforms like LocalRent may offer options. Be aware of potential cross-border restrictions and ensure adequate insurance coverage. Local driving styles and road conditions should also be taken into account.

Car rental prices in Montenegro for automatic transmission vehicles in July are approximately €30-€40 per day, with an additional deposit of €100. It is advisable to research rental companies in the desired city (e.g., Budva) and contact them via phone or Viber, or check their websites for specific rates and availability, especially for short-term rentals (e.g., three days).

Car rental in Montenegro typically costs around 40 euros per day, making it a more economical option than organized tours for exploring the country. However, for those who do not drive or prefer not to, intercity buses are a practical and affordable alternative for traveling between cities and even to neighboring countries. While bus comfort may vary, they offer reliable transportation.

When renting a car in Montenegro, be aware of potential minimum rental periods (e.g., 7 days) and inquire about insurance options, such as basic protection. It is recommended to research rental companies in the desired location and clarify all terms and conditions, including insurance coverage and payment methods, before booking.

To avoid common car rental scams in Montenegro, prioritize booking offers that do not require a security deposit. Rental disputes often involve unjustified non-refund of deposits.

For long-term car rental (one month or more) in Montenegro, exercise caution with online recommendations. Many individuals offering deals are scammers. Avoid making advance payments via ruble transfers. It's advisable to conduct thorough research and verify the legitimacy of rental agencies.

In Montenegro, driving a motorcycle or scooter with an engine capacity over 50cc (like 125cc) requires a category A driver's license. While rental companies may suggest otherwise and police might overlook tourists, it is legally required. Riding a scooter under 50cc is generally permissible with a category B license. If involved in an incident, especially an accident, riding without the correct license can lead to serious legal consequences.

When renting a car in Montenegro (e.g., Mini Cooper for ~40 EUR/day plus delivery fee), it is crucial to record a video of the car's condition upon pickup. This can help resolve disputes about damages when returning the vehicle, especially if a different person handles the return inspection. The website mentioned is firstrentacar.me.

Car rentals in Budva, Montenegro, can be in high demand, with bookings often extending months in advance, especially during peak season or before visa policy changes. It is advisable to book in advance through platforms like LocalRent or inquire locally. Some users report successful same-day rentals via specific platforms.