Car Rental in Belgium for Australian Travelers

Embarking on a journey across Belgium can be a captivating experience, especially when you have the flexibility of your own vehicle.
If you're an Australian traveler, these might be some of the questions on your mind:

Is an Australian driver's license valid in Belgium?
What insurance coverage do I need when renting a car?
How do rental costs in Belgium compare?
Are cross-border trips allowed with rented vehicles?
What are the unique driving regulations in Belgium?

This guide is designed to provide you with all the essential knowledge for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience in Belgium. By the end, you'll be ready for a hassle-free car rental experience tailored to your needs and plans.

Can Australian Citizens Drive in Belgium?

Yes, Australian travelers can legally drive in Belgium with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License
Notes: Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter. EU/EEA driving licenses are valid for car rental across the EU/EEA, as well as in Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, Discover, JCB, and UnionPay. Some rentals may require two credit cards.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 23.59 per day or US$ 235.96 per month.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore trusted global chains or innovative local providers for your car rental needs in Belgium. Each option offers unique benefits tailored to Australian travelers.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
78
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
94
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network across multiple countries
- Variety of vehicle options
- Flexible rental terms
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Travelers seeking reliable transportation and a diverse fleet
Keddy by Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
52
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network of locations
- Competitive rates
- Customer-friendly service
- Variety of vehicle types
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and short-term rentals
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
35
Prices:
$$-$$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive fleet with premium brands
- User-friendly mobile app
- No hidden fees
- 24/7 customer support
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and flexibility
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
7
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Family-friendly service
- Easy online booking
- Unlimited mileage options
- No hidden fees
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
91
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
FLIZZR
global
8.5
Locations:
12
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Easy online booking
- 24/7 customer service
- No hidden fees
- Option for long-term rentals
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and flexible rental needs

Recommendations for Australian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting a car in Belgium
Seeking reliable service across multiple locations
Prefer 24/7 customer support options
Traveling for business or formal engagements

Choose Local Brands If:

Looking for cost-effective rental options
Focusing on staying in urban areas
Interested in unique or specialized vehicle experiences
Comfortable using app-based services for bookings

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Europe
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most Australian drivers prefer automatic for European road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and manual cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Australian insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with the same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with manual transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Ardennes, Belgian coast, Bruges
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Spa, Liège, Namur

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Belgium?

Belgium features charming medieval towns, vibrant cities, and stunning countryside, offering something for every traveler. Explore iconic locations such as Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp to experience the best of Belgian culture and history.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in Belgium, ensure you have the necessary insurance coverage. While basic liability insurance is often included in the rental price, additional coverages for damage, theft, and personal accidents can provide extra security and peace of mind during your travels.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car caused by collisions, reducing the renter's financial liability.
AUD 23-38/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage against the theft of the rental vehicle, including damages caused by attempted theft.
AUD 8-12/day
Essential
Third Party Liability (TPL)
Covers damages to other vehicles or property and injuries to third parties caused by the driver.
Usually included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in the event of an accident.
AUD 8-15/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Belgium. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$5,309.10

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$7,373.76

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Rental Cars in Belgium

Travelers from Australia to Belgium can find great deals on rental cars with the right strategies. Here are some tips to help you save money and navigate the rental process efficiently.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Ensure to reserve your rental car at least 3-5 weeks before your trip to secure the best rates and availability.
Save up to 35%
Shop Around
Use comparison websites like Rentalcars.com or Kayak to find competitive prices.
Save up to 20%
Opt for the Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
This policy avoids additional refueling charges, and you can choose where to refuel at competitive pump prices.
Potential savings of AUD $25-50
Choose the Right Car Size
Select a vehicle suitable for your needs. Smaller cars tend to be more affordable and fuel-efficient.
Save AUD $15-30 daily
Inspect for Hidden Fees
Carefully read the rental agreement for added charges such as insurance or additional driver fees.
Avoid unexpected costs of AUD $50+

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Belgium.

Additional Fees
Be aware of extra charges that may not be included in the quoted price.
- Airport surcharges or premium location fees
- Charges for additional drivers
- Equipment rentals like child seats or GPS units
- Late return penalties
- Fuel charges if returned with less fuel than required
Insurance Requirements
Understand insurance policies to avoid costly surprises.
- Check if your Australian insurance covers rental abroad
- Consider third-party insurance options for better rates
- Verify collision damage waiver terms
- Understand excess fees in case of damage
- Ensure coverage for theft or vandalism
Fuel Policies
Understand various fuel policies to save money and avoid penalties.
- Full-to-full policy is often the most economical
- Prepaid fuel options may be more expensive
- Locate nearby fuel stations before returning the car
- Keep fuel receipts for verification
Vehicle Condition
Inspect the car thoroughly before leaving the rental location.
- Check for scratches, dents, and other damages
- Inspect tires and mirrors for any issues
- Ensure all lights and indicators are functional
- Document the car's condition with photos
Rental Agreement Terms
Carefully review the rental contract to avoid misunderstandings.
- Understand mileage limits and additional charges
- Check restrictions on cross-border travel
- Clarify return time policies
- Review cancellation or modification fees
Timing Considerations
Manage your pickup and return times to avoid extra charges.
- Plan for pickup during business hours to avoid delays
- Ensure timely return to avoid late fees
- Account for possible traffic delays during peak hours

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Key Differences and Similarities Between Australian and Belgian Traffic Rules

Understand how Australian traffic regulations differ from and align with those in Belgium to ensure a safe and smooth driving experience.

Driving Side
BE
Drive on the right-hand side of the road
AU
Drive on the left-hand side of the road
Fuel Types
BE
Primarily diesel and petrol with E10 widely available
AU
Mostly petrol and diesel, with LPG being common
Roundabouts
BE
Priority is given to vehicles already on the roundabout
AU
Similar principle, but some local variations exist
Accident Reporting
BE
Mandatory to call police for accidents with injuries
AU
Similar laws regarding reporting significant accidents
Child Safety Seats
BE
Mandatory for children under 135 cm or up to 12 years old
AU
Mandatory for children under 145 cm or up to 12 years old
Cyclist Awareness
BE
High emphasis on cyclist priority zones
AU
Growing emphasis, but less prevalent
Mobile Phone Usage
BE
Strictly hands-free use only
AU
Strictly hands-free use only
Seatbelt Requirement
BE
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
AU
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Remember
- • Familiarize yourself with road signs specific to Belgium.
- • Ensure your Australian license is accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- • Adjust to the right-side driving orientation for a seamless experience.
- • Always carry your vehicle's rental documentation and insurance details.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Australia renting a car in Belgium

How far in advance should I book a rental car in Belgium?

It is strongly recommended to book at least 1-3 months ahead, especially during high season (June-August) or public holidays. Early booking secures your preferred car type (especially automatics) and better prices.

How can I find the best car rental deals in Belgium?

Use a price comparison platform. QEEQ is highly recommended as it compares rates from major providers (like Hertz, Avis, Europcar), often offering exclusive discounts and free upgrades. Book directly via QEEQ's website or app.

Are manual or automatic cars more common in Belgium? Which should I choose?

Manual cars are standard and cheaper in Belgium and Europe. Automatics are less common and usually cost 20%-50% more. If you’re used to automatics in Australia, it’s worth paying extra to rent an automatic, especially as you’ll also be adjusting to left-hand driving.

What car size should I rent for driving in Belgium?

If you plan to drive mainly in historic cities like Brussels, Bruges, or Ghent, opt for a compact or small car due to narrow streets and tight parking. For long-distance travel or more luggage, a mid-size or wagon offers more comfort.

What does a typical car rental fee in Belgium include and exclude?

Usually included: vehicle rental, basic collision damage waiver (CDW), theft protection (TP), third-party liability (TPL), and VAT. Not included: fuel, extra driver fee, young driver surcharge, one-way fee, GPS, child seats, and full insurance upgrades.

What are Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and do I need to worry about them?

Major cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent have LEZs requiring vehicles to meet emission standards. Most modern rental cars comply, but confirm with the rental desk. Some foreign vehicles need pre-registration and a fee, or risk hefty fines.

Do I need to rent a GPS unit?

Not necessarily. You can rent a GPS from the rental company (€10-€15/day), but using your smartphone with offline maps (Google Maps, Waze) or a Belgian SIM/eSIM is more cost-effective and often more up-to-date.

Can I drive from Belgium to neighbouring countries like France, Netherlands, or Germany?

Yes, most major rental companies allow cross-border travel within Western Europe but may charge a cross-border fee. You must declare your intention at booking or pickup to ensure insurance coverage in all countries you visit.

What is the 'airport surcharge' I see in car rental bookings?

This is an extra fee for picking up or returning the car at an airport location, reflecting the higher operating costs. You may save money by picking up your car from a downtown location.

Should I collect my rental car immediately after arriving in Brussels from Australia?

Not recommended. After a long-haul flight, jet lag and fatigue can make adapting to left-hand driving riskier. Rest at least one night in Brussels before picking up your car.

Can I drive in Belgium with my Australian driver’s licence?

Yes, but you must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid Australian licence. The IDP is an official translation and must be obtained in Australia before you travel.

How long is an International Driving Permit (IDP) valid, and when should I apply?

An IDP is typically valid for 12 months from the date of issue. Apply 1-2 months before departure to ensure coverage for your entire trip. The IDP must always be presented together with your Australian licence.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Belgium?

Most companies require drivers to be at least 21. Drivers aged 21-24 usually pay a young driver surcharge (€20-€40/day), and some car types may have higher age limits (25+).

Is there a minimum driving experience requirement to rent a car?

Yes, most rental companies require at least 1 year of driving experience. Some premium or large vehicles may require 2 years or more.

What documents do I need to present when collecting the car?

You need: 1) your valid Australian driver’s licence, 2) a valid IDP, 3) your passport, and 4) a credit card in the main driver’s name for payment and deposit.

Does the credit card need to match the main driver’s name exactly?

Yes. The credit card must be in the main driver’s name, matching the spelling on your licence and passport. Debit cards and cash are not accepted for deposits.

Can I add additional drivers? What’s required and is there a fee?

Yes, all additional drivers must be present at pickup with the same documents (licence, IDP, passport). There’s typically a fee of €10-€15 per day per additional driver.

My Australian driver’s licence (Victoria) has no photo. Is this a problem?

It can cause confusion at the counter, which is why the IDP (with your photo) is essential. Carry your passport as a photo ID as well.

Can I rent a car if my driver’s licence is about to expire?

No. Your licence must be valid for the entire rental period. Renew before departure if it will expire before your return.

How much is the security deposit and when is it refunded?

The deposit typically ranges from €500 to €1500, held on your credit card as a pre-authorization. It’s released 5-15 business days after return, depending on your bank.

What is the typical car pick-up process and how long does it take?

Allow 30-60 minutes. Present your documents, confirm details, sign the contract, pay and secure the deposit, then collect your keys and inspect the car before leaving.

What should I check when inspecting the rental car?

Photograph and note any scratches, dents, glass chips, wheel or interior damage. Ensure safety items (reflective vest, warning triangle, first aid kit) are present. Have all damage recorded in the rental agreement.

What do I do if I find unrecorded damage on the car?

Report it immediately to the desk or a staff member and insist it’s added to your contract with a signature. Never skip this step to avoid being charged for pre-existing damage.

What does 'Full to Full' fuel policy mean?

You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. Failure to do so results in costly refuelling charges and an extra service fee.

How do I familiarize myself with left-hand drive vehicles?

Before leaving, spend 10-15 minutes adjusting mirrors, seats, and controls. Practice operating indicators, lights, and gearshift (now on your right) while stationary to build muscle memory.

What do CDW, TP, and SLI insurance mean?

CDW: Collision Damage Waiver (limits your liability for damage, subject to an excess). TP: Theft Protection (limits liability if the car is stolen, subject to an excess). SLI: Supplemental Liability Insurance (increases third-party liability coverage). Consider full zero-excess insurance for peace of mind.

What if I arrive late for car pickup? Will my reservation be held?

Most companies have a 1-2 hour grace period. If you provided your flight number, they’ll track delays. For major delays, call the rental desk to avoid cancellation.

Can I request a specific make or model of car?

Bookings are for a car class (e.g., 'or similar'). You may request a specific brand or model, but it's not guaranteed.

Are child seats mandatory in Belgium? How can I get one?

Yes. Children under 135 cm must use appropriate child seats. You can rent these when booking, bring your own (if compliant with ECE R44/04 or R129), or buy one at a Belgian supermarket.

Should I accept car upgrades or extra services offered at pickup?

Be wary. Staff may upsell upgrades or insurance. If you already purchased full insurance via QEEQ, you can politely decline. Only accept upgrades if you truly need more space.

What’s the biggest challenge switching from right-hand (Australia) to left-hand (Belgium) driving?

Changing road positioning and habits. Remind yourself to keep right. Practice in quiet areas, use a navigator, and be cautious at roundabouts and intersections.

Are highways in Belgium tolled?

Most are free for passenger vehicles, except for the Liefkenshoek tunnel near Antwerp, which charges a toll.

What are the standard speed limits in Belgium?

Unless otherwise posted: 50 km/h in cities, 70 km/h in Flanders or 90 km/h in Wallonia/Brussels outside cities, and 120 km/h on motorways. Speed cameras are common—always follow limits.

What is 'priority to the right' in Belgian traffic rules?

At intersections without signs or lights, vehicles from your right have priority, even if you’re on a main road. Always slow down and check right at such junctions.

How do Belgian road signs differ from Australia?

Most are pictorial and standardized. Key differences: 'STOP' (red octagon), 'Yield' (inverted red triangle), 'No entry' (red circle with white bar), speed limits (white circle/red border), and town entry signs (triggers urban speed limits).

How does parking work in Belgian cities? What is a 'Blue Zone'?

On-street parking often requires payment at a meter. 'Blue Zones' (signs with blue 'P') allow free parking for a limited time (usually 2 hours) with a parking disc set to your arrival time, often provided in the car.

Are fuel stations self-service, and what fuel should I use?

Most are self-service. Check whether your car uses petrol ('Benzine'/‘Essence’—Euro 95 or 98) or diesel ('Diesel'). Always confirm with the rental docs or fuel cap—misfuelling is costly and not covered by insurance.

What should I do if I have an accident or breakdown?

Stay calm. Turn on hazard lights, move to safety, wear a reflective vest, place the warning triangle, check for injuries (call 112 if needed), exchange details, fill out the European Accident Statement, take photos, and call the rental company’s emergency number.

How strict are drink-driving laws in Belgium?

Very strict. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. For new or professional drivers, it’s even lower. The best advice is: don’t drink and drive at all.

Is it legal to use a phone while driving in Belgium?

Handheld use is strictly prohibited and heavily fined. Only hands-free systems are allowed. Set your navigation before you drive.

Where should I refuel before returning my rental car?

Refuel within 5-10 km of the return point and keep the receipt. Some companies may ask for proof of refuelling.

What is the car return process like?

Drive to the designated return area, have the car inspected for damage, mileage, and fuel. You and the staff sign a return report, and you hand over the keys.

How much time should I allow for returning the car?

At least 30 minutes for the return process itself. If returning at an airport before a flight, allow extra time for possible lines and transport to your terminal.

What if I need to return the car outside office hours?

Many locations have 24-hour return or a key drop box. If using the drop box, photograph the car’s final condition, fuel, and mileage in good light for your records.

What happens if new scratches are found at return?

If you don’t have zero-excess insurance, the repair cost (up to your excess amount) will be deducted from your deposit. With full insurance, you typically pay nothing, but you must complete the incident report.

How long should I keep rental agreements and related documents?

Keep all paperwork (agreement, inspection report, receipts) for at least 6 months in case of disputes or delayed fines.

What happens if I receive a traffic fine in Belgium?

Fines usually go to the rental company, who will pass your details to the authorities and charge an admin fee (€30-€50) to your card. The fine itself will be sent to you for payment.

How do I pay a Belgian traffic fine from Australia?

Fines come with payment instructions, including an IBAN and BIC/SWIFT code. Pay via international bank transfer. Pay on time to avoid higher penalties.

What should I do if I dispute a charge on my final bill?

Contact the rental company’s customer service with your agreement number and evidence. If unresolved, contact your credit card provider to initiate a chargeback, and if booked via QEEQ, seek their support.

What are the top 3 tips for Australians driving in Belgium?

1) Prepare thoroughly: get your IDP, book an automatic car, and buy zero-excess insurance via QEEQ. 2) Always remind yourself to keep right and watch for 'priority to the right.' 3) Slow down and enjoy the journey—leave time to adapt and appreciate Belgium’s scenery.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Belgium for Australian Travelers

Embarking on a journey across Belgium can be a captivating experience, especially when you have the flexibility of your own vehicle. If you're an Australian traveler, these might be some of the questions on your mind:

Can Australian Citizens Drive in Belgium?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Australian Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Belgium?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Rental Cars in Belgium

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Key Differences and Similarities Between Australian and Belgian Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Embarking on a journey across Belgium can be a captivating experience, especially when you have the flexibility of your own vehicle.
If you're an Australian traveler, these might be some of the questions on your mind: