For years, travelers believed renting a car abroad required one thing above all: a credit card. Major rental companies made it the standard, blocking huge deposits on cards for “security.” But times are changing. More countries now allow car rental without a credit card, giving travelers flexibility with debit cards or even cash payments. So where exactly can you rent a car without needing a credit card?
Portugal
Portugal is one of the most flexible destinations in Europe when it comes to car hire. Local agencies in Lisbon, Porto, and Faro often accept debit cards or cash payments, especially for short-term rentals. Many companies also offer no-deposit rentals, which makes the experience even smoother.
Spain
In tourist hubs like Malaga, Alicante, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands, travelers can find plenty of agencies offering rentals without a credit card. Debit card payments are common, and smaller companies compete by eliminating strict deposit rules.
Greece
Greek islands such as Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, and Corfu are hotspots for credit-card-free rentals. Local agencies dominate the market, often advertising no-deposit and debit card-friendly policies to attract tourists who don’t want frozen funds on their accounts.
Cyprus
Both Larnaca and Paphos airports have rental companies that allow debit cards and even cash payments. Cyprus has become a popular choice for travelers looking to avoid traditional credit card requirements.
Turkey
In Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum, many car rental agencies focus on serving international tourists with easier conditions. Renting without a credit card is widely available, often paired with insurance-inclusive packages that eliminate deposits.
Eastern Europe
Countries like Georgia, Albania, Montenegro, and Serbia have an increasing number of local companies offering rentals without credit cards. Tbilisi, Tirana, Podgorica, and Belgrade all have agencies that welcome debit payments and simple booking systems.
Other destinations
While less common, some agencies in Italy, Croatia, and Malta also allow rentals without credit cards, especially when booked through local providers instead of global chains. Outside Europe, Mexico and parts of Asia are beginning to adopt similar flexible policies.
Tips for renting without a credit card
- Book in advance to guarantee availability
- Check if insurance is already included in the price
- Read reviews to avoid hidden charges
- Confirm accepted payment methods before arrival
- Take photos of the car at pick-up and drop-off
Yes, renting a car without a credit card is possible, and it’s easier than most travelers think. Countries like Portugal, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey lead the way, with Eastern Europe quickly catching up. The key is choosing the right provider—local agencies often give better flexibility than global brands. With proper planning, you can drive abroad freely without ever handing over a credit card.
