What do I purchase when renting a car in Europe and I am an insurance agent, everything. Because you are not fully covered by your personal automobile insurance policy and credit card. I do not want to spend my vacation time calling credit card companies and my insurance company to resolve an insurance issue. Meanwhile, the rental car company will place a debit on your credit card to cover any damages or deductible that can be for the entire value of the car. Try reserving a room or renting another car after either reached your maximum credit limit, or the credit card company security unit places a hold on the card.
You should call your credit card company and your insurance agent, and find out what insurance they provide in Europe. Levels of coverage vary and some do not provide coverage outside the United States. In some cases, a credit card company will cover collision after a high deductible and many do have a maximum. Also, ask if there are any other benefits provided for a traveler. Usually, your personal automobile insurance policy only provides liability coverage, no collision or theft especially outside the United States
Also, I read the fine print on the coverage offered because they are all not the same. The following coverage is available to you at the rental car counter:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). Sometimes called a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), this coverage relieves you of financial responsibility if your rental car is damaged or stolen. The CDW may be void, however, if you cause an accident by speeding, driving on unpaved roads or driving while intoxicated. In Europe, I discovered some companies do not cover broken glass and tires or any damage caused by theft or vandalism.
Liability Insurance. This provides excess liability coverage of up to $1 million for the time you rent a car. Rental companies are required by law to provide the minimum level of liability insurance, but not enough to cover damages in a big accident. Check your automobile insurance policy with your insurance agent to determine if you have liability coverage in Europe, and what you need to process a claim. Not all insurance companies are the same.
Personal Accident Insurance. This provides coverage to you and your passengers for medical/ambulance bills. You may want to consider this coverage if you do not have adequate medical insurance. Sure, Europe has socialized medical care, but the coverage may pay for your ambulance trip home.
Personal Effects Coverage. This provides coverage for the theft of personal items in your car. In Europe, not all companies cover all personal items, and there is a maximum.
Also, inspect the car before you drive off. If you notice any damage inform the attendant before you leave the lot.
The cost of this coverage varies among companies, and should make your shopping more interesting. However, I have found competitive rates from two companies while traveling through Europe,
http://www.rentacar-worldwide.com/ and
http://www.carjet.com/