After the tourist collapse during the COVID-19 pandemic era, Montenegro is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historic towns, and scenic mountainous countryside.
Renting a car in Podgorica is often the easiest way to get around and see all that this Balkan country has to offer. But when is the ideal time to book your rental car for the best deal?
This guide will examine the pros and cons of booking a rental car early versus waiting until the last minute in Montenegro.
Is Montenegro good for car rental?
Montenegro is a popular destination for renting a car. The country’s compact size makes it easy to drive around and see the sights.
According to a 2021 tourism report, over 2.5 million tourists visited Montenegro, with over 60% arriving by car. The roads are well-maintained and driving conditions are generally safe.
Rental car companies are operating in all major cities and airports. Popular destinations like Kotor, Budva, and Ulcinj are very walkable towns but having a rental car allows you to take scenic drives along the coast and visit more remote areas like Durmitor National Park and the mountain towns of Zabljak and Kolasin. Car rental at Podgorica Airport is very popular, as well due to the good air flight connections across Europe’s major cities and Montenegro.
For travellers who want freedom and flexibility during their Montenegro trip, renting a car is highly recommended.
What is the best time to book a rental car in Montenegro?
Ideally, the best time to book a rental car in Montenegro is 2-4 months in advance for peak summer travel between June and August.
During these months, tourists flock to Montenegro’s beaches and prices for rental cars can double the low season rates. Booking well in advance ensures the availability of vehicles and locks at the best prices.
For example, according to Rentalcars.com data, the average weekly rate for a standard sedan in August is $420 if booked just one week in advance, compared to only $230 if booked 3 months out.
According to a survey by CarRentals.com, 76% of people book their rental car 1 week to 1 month in advance to get the best deals. Booking last minute in summer limits selection and means paying premium rates, often $100 more per week. Booking early is especially important for large groups needing multiple vehicles and during events like the Summer Fest music festival.
Montenegro sees over 100k visitors during summer so reserving rental cars several months in advance provides peace of mind.
Is it cheaper to book a rental car in advance or last minute in Montenegro?
Statistics clearly show it is substantially cheaper to book rental cars well in advance rather than last minute in Montenegro, especially in peak season.
A rental car analytics study found rates booked 60+ days in advance were on average 30% cheaper compared to booking just 2 weeks out.
Rental operators offer their best-discounted prices for early bookings to incentivize travellers and maximize revenue. As availability decreases closer to pick-up dates, prices increase.
According to rental car price data, a compact sedan in July costs approximately $250 per week if booked 3 months in advance but jumps to $400 when booking just 3 weeks ahead a 60% premium. For a luxury convertible in peak August, booking 6 months out saves over $800 compared to booking one month before.
While last-minute deals sometimes appear, counting on finding a cheap rental car at the last minute, especially in summer, is risky in Montenegro. The data proves booking as early as possible results in the lowest rates.
Why Might You Still Book Rental Cars in Advance?
While last-minute deals are rare, there are still good reasons travellers may want to book their Montenegro rental car well ahead of time besides just saving money:
Availability
During the peak summer season, rental cars sell out quickly in top destinations like Kotor, Tivat Airport, and Budva. For holiday weekends and festivals, booking just a few weeks ahead often means finding no availability. Booking early secures your ideal car type and pickup location.
Competitive Pricing
Online prices can fluctuate with demand. Long-term bookings lock in competitive pricing and prevent paying higher prices if rates increase. Booking also allows price comparisons across multiple rental companies for the best deal.
Planning and Convenience
With an early rental car booking, travellers can better plan excursions ahead of time. Knowing you have a vehicle booked reduces stress and allows for creating a sensible itinerary. Some rental companies also provide perks for early bookings like priority pickup and keyless access.
Special Requirements
Booking in advance ensures the availability of speciality vehicles like passenger vans, SUVs, convertibles, and luxury models. Early booking also allows time to request child seats or other accessories. Last-minute bookings often lack these options.
Time Efficiency
Showing up without reservations risks long waits at rental counters during peak season. Booking ahead allows fast pickup through priority or express services so you can quickly be on the road exploring.
Flexibility and Modifications
Early booking allows time to modify reservations if plans change. Late bookings offer little flexibility to change dates, locations, or car types.
How can you get the best deal when renting cars in Montenegro?
Here are some insider tips to land the cheapest rental car prices in Montenegro:
Compare rates across rental companies – prices can vary over $100 for the same dates and vehicle class.
Check rates at local rental offices – these are sometimes cheaper than airport locations.
Rent for longer periods – weekly and monthly rates offer bigger discounts over daily prices.
Avoid extras like GPS units – use your phone’s mapping apps instead.
Book car rentals on weekdays – weekends tend to have higher daily rates.
Join rental company loyalty programs for members-only deals.
Use online promo codes and coupons for instant discounts.
Pay upon pickup rather than prepaying for flexibility if plans change.
What are the road conditions in Montenegro?
Montenegro’s road infrastructure is well-developed, especially along the coast. Major routes are modern 4-lane highways while secondary roads twist scenically through the mountains and countryside. The northern mountains still contain some unpaved gravel roads so a 4×4 rental car can allow accessing more remote areas. Road signage follows European standards and is generally clear.
Congestion can be an issue in popular summer destinations like Kotor, Budva, and near the Croatian border. Careful driving is advised as some local drivers exhibit reckless behaviour like speeding and passing on curves. Road rules follow other European nations and driving is on the right side.
Weather is rarely an issue but snow chains may be required on northern mountain roads in winter. Overall, Montenegro’s road network is high quality with stunning coastal and canyon routes making driving a rewarding experience.
Renting a car is an excellent way to explore Montenegro’s beautiful landscape with the freedom and flexibility to create your adventure. While last-minute deals are rare, booking 2-4 months out is recommended for peak summer months to lock in the best rates and ensure availability. For an affordable and unforgettable trip, a rental car allows you to discover Montenegro’s very best at your own pace.
