The first 30 minutes after picking up a rental car

A general familiarisation guide · Last updated 27 June 2026

Two unfamiliar things stack up at once when you collect a rental abroad: a car you've never driven and a side of the road you don't normally use — often right after a long journey. That first half hour is when most wrong-side drifts happen — the window crash data flags as riskiest. A little structure turns it from a scramble into a calm warm-up.

What should you check before driving off?

Resist the urge to drive off the moment you have the keys. Sit for a couple of minutes and get oriented in a car where the driver's seat is on the opposite side to what you're used to:

• Find the basics with the engine off — indicators, wipers, lights, gear selector and parking brake. Their positions may be mirrored.
• Set your mirrors and seat properly; good visibility matters more than usual when your instincts are recalibrating.
• Notice where the centre of the road sits relative to you now that you're seated on the other side.

How should you pull out of the car park?

The exit is the first real test, because you'll make a turn onto a road and immediately have to choose a side. Go slowly, say your intended side out loud if it helps, and confirm it as you straighten up. If you can, plan to turn in the simpler direction for your first move rather than the one that crosses oncoming traffic.

What makes a good first drive?

Where you can, make the first stretch of driving the gentlest available — quieter roads, daylight, dry weather, no tight deadline. Save complex junctions and unfamiliar night driving for when the new habits have had a little time to settle.

How can a passenger help?

A passenger can be more than company. Ask them to call out a calm "your side" reminder after turns and at junctions for the first while. An extra pair of eyes, used kindly, takes pressure off your still-forming reflexes.

Keep the scan deliberate

For the first half hour, make your checks slower and more conscious than feels necessary — especially the direction you look first. It will feel laboured, and that's the point: you're overriding an old default until the new one takes hold.

This is general familiarisation guidance, not driving instruction or a substitute for the official rules of your destination. Always check local guidance and drive within your ability.