Car Rental · Updated July 2026
Localrent Review: Rent From Local Companies With Tiny Deposits
Our editorial rating
Localrent (formerly MyRentacar) connects travelers with vetted local car rental companies in 60+ countries, with particular depth in the Balkans, the Caucasus, Turkey and Southeast Asia.
It fixes the two things people hate about renting abroad: four-figure card deposits and the airport-desk upsell gauntlet.
thumb_up What we like
- check_circleDeposits of 100-300 euros instead of 1,000+
- check_circleExact car model with real photos, not "or similar"
- check_circleHotel and airport delivery common
- check_circleHonest local pricing in Eastern Europe and Asia
thumb_down What could be better
- remove_circle_outlineLimited coverage in North America and Western Europe
- remove_circle_outlineInsurance is simpler but less standardized than big brands
Why local companies
International brands run standardized fleets with standardized deposits, often 1,000 euros or more frozen on a credit card. The local firms on Localrent typically ask 100 to 300 euros, frequently in cash, and many will hand the car over at your hotel with a two-minute walkaround instead of a queue and a hard sell.
You see the exact car model (not "or similar"), real photos, the deposit amount and the insurance terms before booking. Reviews are tied to the specific company, so lemon operators surface fast.
Where it shines
Georgia, Montenegro, Albania, Thailand, Cyprus: in these markets Localrent is usually cheaper than the aggregators, with friendlier terms and honest fuel policies. For the US, Western Europe and big corporate markets, a broker like Auto Europe or EconomyBookings covers you better.
verifiedOur verdict
In its home markets, Localrent is the single best way to rent a car: cheaper, friendlier terms, and the exact car you clicked on. It is our first stop for any Balkan or Caucasus road trip.
Try Localrentopen_in_newLocalrent: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Localrent trustworthy?expand_more
Yes. Every listed company is vetted and reviewed by real renters, and the platform mediates if anything goes wrong. Reading recent reviews for the specific company remains good practice.
What deposit will I pay?expand_more
It varies by company and car, but typically 100-300 euros, shown clearly on the listing. Many companies accept cash deposits.
Do I need a credit card?expand_more
Often no. Many Localrent companies accept debit cards or cash for both payment and deposit, which almost no international brand allows.
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