Being stopped by the police can happen to any driver, whether you’re behind the wheel of your own vehicle or a rental car. If it’s your first time renting a car, the situation may seem stressful. The good news is that a roadside police check in a rental vehicle is no different from one in your own car. The most important thing is to stay calm and follow the officer’s instructions.

Pull Over Safely

If a police officer signals you to stop:

• Turn on your indicator.
• Pull over in a safe location.
• Switch off the engine.
• Apply the parking brake.
• Remain in the vehicle unless instructed otherwise.

Avoid leaving the car until the officer asks you to do so.

What Documents May Be Checked?

During a roadside inspection, the police may ask to see:

• Your valid driving licence.
• Your passport or ID card.
• Your rental agreement, if necessary.

In Poland, drivers are not required to carry a paper copy of the vehicle registration certificate or proof of insurance, as this information is available electronically. However, if you are travelling abroad, local regulations may differ, so it’s always a good idea to check the requirements before your trip.

Will the Police Know It’s a Rental Car?

Yes. The vehicle registration information shows the legal owner of the car, so the police can see that the vehicle belongs to a rental company. This is completely normal and does not create any additional obligations for you as the driver.

What Happens If You Receive a Fine?

If you commit a traffic offence during your rental period, you are responsible for any fines or penalties issued while you are driving the vehicle.

For speeding tickets or other offences detected by traffic cameras, the authorities may contact the rental company to identify the person who rented the vehicle at the time of the incident. The matter is then forwarded to the responsible driver in accordance with local regulations.

What If You’re Involved in an Accident?

If the police stop you because of an accident or another road incident:

• Stay calm.
• Follow the officer’s instructions.
• Contact the rental company as soon as possible.
• Follow the guidance provided by the rental company’s support team.

It’s always a good idea to save the rental company’s emergency contact number before starting your journey.

Travelling Abroad?

If you plan to drive your rental car outside Poland, make sure your rental agreement allows international travel. Some countries require additional documentation, so it’s important to check the relevant regulations before crossing the border.

Helpful Tips

• Stay calm and be polite throughout the inspection.
• Answer the officer’s questions honestly.
• Keep your driving licence and identification with you.
• Save the rental company’s contact number before your trip.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact the rental company for assistance.

Final Thoughts

A police stop while driving a rental car is generally no different from being stopped in your own vehicle. As long as you follow traffic laws, cooperate with the police, and keep the necessary documents with you, the process is usually quick and straightforward.

At Go Rental Cars, we’re always here to help. If you experience any issues during your rental period, don’t hesitate to contact our team—we’ll be happy to assist you every step of the way.

Air conditioning is no longer considered a luxury—it has become a standard feature in most modern cars. On hot summer days, it makes driving much more comfortable and helps drivers stay focused. However, many people still wonder whether using the A/C significantly increases fuel consumption or whether it’s better to simply open the windows.

The short answer is yes, air conditioning does increase fuel consumption—but usually not as much as many people think.

Let’s take a closer look at how it works and what really affects fuel economy.

Why Does Air Conditioning Increase Fuel Consumption?

Your car’s air conditioning system is powered by a compressor. In vehicles with internal combustion engines, this compressor is driven by the engine itself.

That means the engine has to produce extra power to operate the A/C system. Since producing more power requires more fuel, fuel consumption naturally increases whenever the air conditioning is running.

Fortunately, modern air conditioning systems are much more efficient than older ones, so the impact on fuel economy is relatively small.

How Much More Fuel Does It Use?

The exact increase depends on several factors, including:

• Outside temperature
• Cabin temperature setting
• Vehicle size
• Engine type
• Driving style
• Traffic conditions

On average, drivers can expect:

• 0.2–0.5 litres (0.05–0.13 gallons) more fuel per 100 km during normal driving.
• Up to 0.8–1.0 litres per 100 km in extremely hot weather when the system works at full capacity.
• Around 5–10% higher fuel consumption in some driving conditions.

For example, if your vehicle normally consumes 6.5 L/100 km, using the air conditioning may increase it to around 7.0 L/100 km.

While this is noticeable, the added comfort often outweighs the small increase in fuel costs.

Why Is the Difference More Noticeable in City Driving?

In city traffic, drivers constantly stop, accelerate and drive at lower engine speeds.

Because the engine has less available power, the air conditioning places a relatively higher load on it, making the increase in fuel consumption more noticeable.

On highways, the engine operates more efficiently and at steadier speeds, so the effect is generally smaller.

Air Conditioning vs. Open Windows

One of the most common questions is whether it’s more economical to switch off the A/C and drive with the windows open.

At Low Speeds

When driving around town at speeds below 50–60 km/h (30–35 mph), opening the windows has very little effect on aerodynamics.

In these conditions, driving with the windows open can be a reasonable alternative to using air conditioning.

At Highway Speeds

The situation changes completely once you reach motorway speeds.

Open windows create additional aerodynamic drag, forcing the engine to work harder.

At 100–140 km/h (60–85 mph), the extra drag can actually increase fuel consumption more than running the air conditioning.

That’s why many automotive experts recommend keeping the windows closed and using the A/C when driving on highways.

Does Air Conditioning Damage the Engine?

No.

Modern engines are designed to operate with the air conditioning running.

Using the A/C does not damage the engine or significantly reduce its lifespan.

The key is to maintain the air conditioning system properly by:

• replacing the cabin air filter,
• checking the refrigerant level,
• disinfecting the system regularly,
• servicing it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A well-maintained system operates more efficiently and places less strain on the engine.

Tips for Using Air Conditioning Efficiently

You can reduce fuel consumption while staying comfortable by following a few simple tips.

1. Ventilate the Car Before Driving

If your vehicle has been parked in direct sunlight, the cabin temperature can exceed 60°C (140°F).

Open the doors or windows for a minute before turning on the air conditioning. This allows the hottest air to escape, reducing the workload on the A/C system.

2. Don’t Set the Temperature Too Low

Setting the climate control to 16°C (61°F) won’t cool the cabin faster.

Instead, it forces the compressor to work harder for longer.

A comfortable temperature between 21°C and 23°C (70–73°F) is usually the most efficient choice.

3. Use Automatic Climate Control

If your vehicle has an automatic climate control system, let it do the work.

It adjusts fan speed and compressor operation automatically, maintaining comfort while improving efficiency.

4. Replace the Cabin Air Filter

A clogged cabin filter restricts airflow, making the air conditioning system work harder.

Replacing the filter regularly helps maintain cooling performance and fuel efficiency.

Conclusion

Yes, air conditioning does increase fuel consumption—but the difference is usually modest.

In most modern vehicles, the increase ranges from 0.2 to 1.0 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on driving conditions and outside temperature.

At highway speeds, using the air conditioning with the windows closed is often more fuel-efficient than driving with the windows open.

The best approach is simple: use your air conditioning sensibly, keep it properly maintained and choose a comfortable temperature. You’ll enjoy a cooler, safer journey without significantly increasing your fuel costs.

Renting a car is a convenient solution for vacations, business trips, or when your own vehicle is unavailable. However, if it’s your first time renting a car, you may not know what to look out for. The result? Unnecessary stress, extra costs, or misunderstandings during pickup and return. To help you enjoy a smooth rental experience, we’ve prepared a list of the 15 most common mistakes first-time renters make—and how to avoid them.

1. Booking at the Last Minute

The closer you get to your travel date, the fewer vehicles will be available and the higher the prices may be. During peak travel seasons, booking in advance is highly recommended.

2. Choosing a Car Based Only on Price

The cheapest option is not always the best one. Consider the vehicle’s features, mileage limits, insurance coverage, and security deposit requirements before making a decision.

3. Not Reading the Rental Terms

Many customers skip the rental agreement and are later surprised by additional charges. Always review the terms regarding fuel policy, vehicle return conditions, and liability for damages.

4. Failing to Inspect the Vehicle at Pickup

Before driving away, carefully inspect the car. Check the bodywork, wheels, windows, and interior. Any existing damage should be documented in the rental report.

5. Not Taking Photos of the Car

A few photos taken with your phone before the rental begins can help prevent disputes when returning the vehicle.

6. Ignoring the Fuel Level

Make sure you know how much fuel is in the tank when you pick up the car. In most cases, the vehicle must be returned with the same fuel level.

7. Choosing a Car That’s Too Small

If you’re traveling with family or carrying a lot of luggage, a larger vehicle may be a better choice. Comfort becomes especially important on longer journeys.

8. Picking the Wrong Car for Your Trip

A small city car may be perfect for urban driving, but for highways, mountain roads, or long-distance travel, a larger vehicle with a more powerful engine can provide a much better experience.

9. Not Understanding the Security Deposit

Before pickup, make sure you know the deposit amount, how it will be charged or blocked, and when it will be released after the rental ends.

10. Exceeding the Mileage Limit

Some rental companies apply mileage restrictions. If you plan to travel long distances, check whether your rental includes unlimited mileage.

11. Letting an Unauthorized Driver Use the Vehicle

Only drivers listed in the rental agreement should operate the vehicle. Otherwise, insurance coverage may be affected in the event of an accident.

12. Returning the Vehicle Late

Even a short delay can result in additional charges. If you expect to be late, contact the rental company as soon as possible.

13. Not Knowing What to Do After an Accident

Before your trip, save the rental company’s contact details. In the event of an accident or damage, secure the scene and report the incident immediately.

14. Forgetting About Additional Travel Costs

When planning your budget, remember to include fuel, toll roads, parking fees, and any road charges that may apply if you travel abroad.

15. Relying Only on Online Reviews

Customer reviews can be helpful, but they should not be your only source of information. Also evaluate the rental conditions, vehicle fleet, customer support, and overall transparency of the company.

Final Thoughts

Renting a car for the first time doesn’t have to be stressful. By taking a few minutes to review the rental terms, inspecting the vehicle carefully, and planning your trip properly, you can avoid common mistakes and enjoy a hassle-free experience.

If you’re renting a car for the first time and have any questions, our team will be happy to help you choose the right vehicle and explain the rental process step by step.

Warsaw is an excellent base for exploring interesting places in central Poland. Within a radius of 50–200 kilometers from the capital, there are many attractions perfect for a one-day car trip. If you’re looking for ideas for a weekend getaway or a spontaneous day outside the city, here are some proven suggestions.

1. Żelazowa Wola – in the footsteps of Fryderyk Chopin

Distance from Warsaw: approx. 55 km

Żelazowa Wola is the birthplace of Fryderyk Chopin. In addition to the historic manor house, you can stroll through a beautiful park and attend classical music concerts organized during the summer season.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• peaceful atmosphere
• beautiful landscaped park
• an ideal trip for culture lovers

2. Kampinos National Park

Distance from Warsaw: approx. 20 km

One of the few national parks located so close to a major metropolis. It’s a perfect place for people who enjoy hiking, cycling, and contact with nature.

Main attractions:

• numerous hiking trails
• inland sand dunes
• sites connected with the history of the Warsaw Uprising

3. Kazimierz Dolny

Distance from Warsaw: approx. 140 km

Kazimierz Dolny has long been considered one of the most beautiful towns in Poland. Its charming market square, historic townhouses, and picturesque ravines attract tourists year-round.

What to see:

• Market Square
• Three Crosses Hill
• Castle and tower
• Korzeniowy Dół ravine

4. Nieborów Palace and Arkadia Park

Distance from Warsaw: approx. 85 km

An ideal destination for lovers of history and architecture. The baroque palace and romantic Arkadia garden are among the most beautiful park complexes in Poland.

5. Modlin Fortress

Distance from Warsaw: approx. 40 km

One of the largest fortresses in Europe. Monumental fortifications and rich history make it a great destination for the whole family.

Worth seeing:

• the longest barracks building in Europe
• forts and defensive structures
• a viewing point at the confluence of the Narew and Vistula rivers

6. Spała and surroundings

Distance from Warsaw: approx. 120 km

A small town located among the forests of the Spała Landscape Park. Ideal for those seeking a break from urban hustle and bustle.

Attractions:

• Niebieskie Źródła nature reserve
• Konewka bunkers
• scenic walking trails

7. Sandomierz

Distance from Warsaw: approx. 190 km

Although slightly farther from the capital, it is still perfectly suitable for a one-day car trip. The city impresses with its historic old town, underground tourist route, and views over the Vistula River.

Why choose a car for a day trip?

Traveling by car gives full freedom in planning your route and allows you to visit multiple attractions in a single trip. You don’t have to adjust to timetables or limit the time spent at each location. For those who don’t own a car or need a larger and more comfortable vehicle for a trip, renting can be a convenient solution.

Summary

A one-day trip from Warsaw is a great way to relax without having to plan a long vacation. Whether you prefer historic sites, nature, or active leisure, you’ll find many places worth visiting near the capital. Just choose a destination, pack your essentials, and hit the road.

Małopolska is one of the best regions in Poland for a road trip. Within a short drive from Kraków, you can find many medieval castles, ruins, and fortresses located on the hills of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland.

1. Ojców Castle

The first stop is located around 30 minutes from Kraków. It is a small castle situated in the heart of the Ojców National Park — a perfect place for a morning walk and coffee.

What is worth seeing?

• castle ruins,
• Kraków Gate,
• Hercules’ Club,
• the Prądnik Valley.

2. Pieskowa Skała Castle

One of the most famous places in Małopolska. This Renaissance castle looks amazing in every season and often appears in travel guides.

On site:

• museum,
• castle courtyard,
• viewpoint,
• restaurant and parking area.

3. Rabsztyn Castle

A less crowded but very atmospheric fortress with beautiful views of the surrounding area. The ruins are located on a limestone hill near Olkusz and offer an amazing panorama of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland.

What is worth seeing?

• restored observation tower,
• stone castle walls,
• castle courtyard,
• scenic views of forests and hills,
• atmospheric evening illumination.

4. Ogrodzieniec Castle

The most impressive point of the entire route and one of the most famous castles in Poland. The monumental ruins are located on limestone rocks of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland

Perfect place for:

• sunset views,
• photography,
• walking through the ruins,
• finishing the whole road trip.

How long does the route take?

The entire route is approximately:

• 250–300 km,
• 1 full day of relaxed driving,
• around 5–6 hours of travel including stops.

Which car is best for this trip?

For this type of route, the following cars work perfectly:

• SUVs for family trips,
• economical hybrids,
• comfortable sedans for longer distances.

Popular choices among customers include:

• Toyota Camry
• Toyota RAV4
• Škoda Kodiaq

Tips before the trip

• it is best to leave early in the morning,
• parking lots fill up quickly on weekends,
• comfortable shoes are recommended,
• some castles require paid entrance tickets,
• spring and autumn are the best seasons for this route.

Check our car rental offer

If you are planning a road trip around Małopolska, check the car rental offer at GO Rental Cars.

Just a few years ago, manual transmission cars dominated European roads. Today, more and more drivers choose automatic vehicles – especially when renting a car for vacations, business trips, or everyday driving. But which option is better for you? Let’s compare how both transmissions work, their pros and cons, and what vehicles are available at GO Rental Cars.

How Does a Manual Transmission Work?

A manual transmission requires the driver to change gears manually using the gear stick and clutch pedal. The driver decides when to shift gears and has full control over the vehicle.

Advantages of a Manual Transmission:

• lower fuel consumption in many older vehicles,
• greater control over the car,
• lower repair costs,
• often cheaper rental prices.

Disadvantages of a Manual Transmission:

• less comfortable in traffic jams,
• constant use of the clutch,
• more difficult for beginner drivers,
• more tiring on long journeys.

Manual cars are perfect for drivers who enjoy a more dynamic driving experience and full control of the vehicle.

How Does an Automatic Transmission Work?

An automatic transmission changes gears automatically based on speed and driving style. There is no clutch pedal – the driver simply selects the driving mode and starts the journey.

Advantages of an Automatic Transmission:

• maximum driving comfort,
• ideal for city traffic and congestion,
• easier to drive,
• smoother gear changes,
• more relaxing on long trips.

Disadvantages of an Automatic Transmission:

• usually higher rental or purchase cost,
• more expensive servicing,
• older models may consume more fuel.

However, modern automatic transmissions are now highly efficient, smooth, and fuel-economical, making them increasingly popular worldwide.

Automatic or Manual – Which One Should You Choose?

The best choice depends on your driving style and personal needs.

Choose an Automatic If:

• you mainly drive in the city,
• you value comfort,
• you travel with family,
• you rent cars for vacations or business trips,
• you want stress-free driving in traffic.

Choose a Manual If:

• you enjoy a more engaging driving experience,
• you want a lower rental cost,
• you often drive outside the city,
• you are used to traditional gear shifting.

What Cars Does GO Rental Cars Offer?

The fleet at GO Rental Cars includes city cars, family wagons, SUVs, and premium vehicles. This allows every customer to choose a vehicle perfectly suited to their needs.

Cars with Manual Transmission:

• Opel Corsa – economical city car,
• Skoda Fabia – perfect for everyday driving,
• Toyota Corolla – comfortable family vehicle,
• Dacia Jogger – practical for long-distance travel.

Cars with Automatic Transmission:

• Toyota Corolla Estate,
• Toyota Corolla,
• Toyota Camry,
• Skoda Octavia,
• Skoda Superb,
• Lexus UX,
• Skoda Kodiaq,
• Mazda CX5.

Summary

There is no single perfect answer to the automatic vs manual debate. If you value comfort and modern technology, choose an automatic. If you prefer full control and lower costs, a manual transmission is still an excellent option.

The most important thing is choosing a car that matches your driving style and travel needs. At GO Rental Cars, you can find economical city cars, comfortable family wagons, SUVs, and premium vehicles available with both manual and automatic transmissions

Motoring is full of “golden rules” everyone has heard at some point — from an uncle, a mechanic, a friend, or an internet forum from 15 years ago. The problem? Many of them were true… once. Today, they can do more harm than good.

Here are the myths nobody really explains properly — but which can seriously affect your car and your wallet.

MYTH 1: “A diesel engine needs long warm-up time while idling”

One of the most deeply rooted beliefs.

👉 Truth:
Modern diesel engines should NOT be left idling to “warm up” for several minutes.

Why?

• engines warm up more efficiently while driving
• long idling increases fuel consumption
• can contribute to clogging systems (e.g. DPF filter)

👉 What to do instead:
Start the engine → wait 20–30 seconds → drive gently.

MYTH 2: “Always fill up the tank — it saves money”

Sounds logical, but…

👉 Truth:
Not always.

• city driving → extra fuel weight increases consumption
• short trips → you don’t benefit from a full tank

👉 When it makes sense:

• long trips
• driving in areas with few fuel stations
• traveling abroad

MYTH 3: “Manual cars always use less fuel than automatics”

Used to be true.
Today: ❌ not necessarily.

👉 Truth:
Modern automatic transmissions:

• shift faster than humans
• optimize gear ratios better
• are often more fuel-efficient in cities

👉 In traffic, automatics usually win.

MYTH 4: “The slower you drive, the less fuel you use”

Sounds reasonable… but only to a point.

👉 Truth:
The most efficient speed is usually:

• around 70–90 km/h (depending on the car)

👉 Driving:

• too slow → inefficient engine operation
• too fast → aerodynamic drag increases dramatically

MYTH 5: “Neutral gear saves fuel when coasting”

👉 Truth:
In modern cars, it’s actually the opposite.

• in gear (with no throttle) → fuel consumption can drop to 0
• in neutral → the engine must still burn fuel to stay running

👉 So: neutral = more fuel use in most cases.

MYTH 6: “More expensive fuel is always better”

👉 Truth:
If your car manufacturer doesn’t require premium fuel:

• you won’t feel any difference
• you’re just overpaying

👉 Exception:

• high-performance / sports engines

MYTH 7: “New cars don’t break down”

👉 Truth:
They do — just differently.

• more electronics
• more expensive repairs
• more complex systems

👉 Old cars: break more often but cheaper
👉 New cars: break less often but more expensive

MYTH 8: “Short trips don’t harm the car”

👉 Truth:
One of the worst habits.

• engine doesn’t reach optimal temperature
• oil doesn’t work efficiently
• faster wear of components

👉 Diesels suffer the most.

MYTH 9: “Oil change every 20–30k km is enough”

👉 Truth:
That’s marketing, not engineering reality.

• safe interval: 10–15k km
• longer intervals = higher engine wear

MYTH 10: “Bigger engine means higher fuel consumption”

👉 Truth:
It depends.

• small engine under heavy load = high consumption
• larger engine running smoothly = sometimes more efficient

👉 Downsizing isn’t always the winner.

🧠 Things Almost Nobody Mentions

👉 air conditioning can increase fuel consumption by up to ~10–15%
👉 driving with open windows at high speed uses more fuel than AC
👉 underinflated tires = up to +5–10% fuel consumption
👉 roof racks = seriously harm aerodynamics

👉 driving on low fuel damages the fuel system
The fuel pump is cooled by fuel — constantly driving on “empty” makes it wear out faster.

👉 extra weight in the trunk = higher fuel consumption, even if you don’t feel it
Carrying an unnecessary 30–50 kg for weeks or months really adds up.

👉 short trips wear out your car more than long drives
The engine and oil don’t reach optimal temperature → more wear and tear.

👉 cruise control doesn’t always save fuel
On flat roads — yes.
On hilly terrain — often the opposite, because the car tries too hard to maintain speed.

👉 driving too gently isn’t always good either
Constantly driving at very low RPM can lead to carbon buildup and engine issues.

👉 your driving style has the biggest impact on fuel consumption
Not the engine, not the brand — the driver.
The difference between aggressive and smooth driving can reach 30–40%.

🚗 Summary

Most “car truths” today are either outdated or half-truths. And following them blindly can cost you:

• more fuel
• faster wear and tear
• unnecessary expenses

Sometimes the best thing you can do is forget what you’ve heard… and look at driving with fresh eyes.

A car, a well-planned route, and the ability to escape everyday life without the stress of timetables or the limitations of public transport.

A rental car gives you full freedom — you can go wherever you want, stop along the way, and change your plans at the last minute. Below you will find specific ideas for a May holiday trip.

1. Mountains – Beskids, Tatra Mountains, Sudetes

The mountains are the most popular choice for the May holiday, but you can still find less crowded places than the most popular resorts.

📍 Example locations:

Beskids: Szczyrk, Wisła, Ustroń, Żywiec, Brenna
Tatra Mountains: Zakopane, Kościelisko, Bukowina Tatrzańska, Białka Tatrzańska
Pieniny: Szczawnica, Krościenko nad Dunajcem, Dunajec River Gorge
Sudetes: Karpacz, Szklarska Poręba, Duszniki-Zdrój, Polanica-Zdrój

🚶 Things to do:

• easy scenic hiking trails (e.g. Gubałówka, Szyndzielnia, Skrzyczne)
• trips to waterfalls (e.g. Kamieńczyk in Szklarska Poręba)
• cable cars and viewpoints
• relaxation in thermal baths (e.g. Bukowina, Chochołów)
• local mountain cuisine in traditional inns

👉 A rental car allows you to avoid crowds and reach smaller, quieter towns where accommodation is often cheaper and more atmospheric.

2. Lakes – Masuria and local reservoirs

If you prefer a peaceful holiday, lakes are the perfect destination.

📍 Example locations:

Masuria: Giżycko, Mikołajki, Ruciane-Nida, Mrągowo, Węgorzewo
Silesia and surroundings: Lake Żywiec, Pogoria (Dąbrowa Górnicza), Rybnicki Reservoir
Lower Silesia: Lake Mietkowskie, Lake Bystrzyckie
Greater Poland: Powidz, Licheń, Kórnik

🚤 Things to do:

• kayaking, pedal boats, SUP boards
• barbecue and bonfire by the water
• walking and cycling routes around lakes
• boat cruises (e.g. on Śniardwy or Niegocin lakes)
• accommodation in cottages, campsites or agritourism farms

👉 The biggest advantage of a car? You can take everything you need: grill, sports equipment, food, tents — without luggage restrictions.

3. City break – Poland and abroad

The May holiday is also a great opportunity for a short city break, especially if you want to combine sightseeing with good food and atmosphere.

📍 Example cities:

Poland: Kraków, Wrocław, Warsaw, Gdańsk, Poznań, Lublin
Nearby abroad: Prague, Vienna, Bratislava, Berlin, Dresden

🏛️ Things to do:

• sightseeing historic old towns
• museums and galleries (e.g. Wawel Castle, Panorama of the Battle of Racławice, Museum of the Second World War)
• restaurants and local cuisine
• riverside walks (Vistula, Oder, Danube)
• evening city life – bars, concerts, May events

👉 A car gives you the freedom to travel comfortably, stay outside the city centre (cheaper accommodation), and explore less obvious places around the city.

4. Which car to choose for the May holiday?

🚙 Toyota Corolla (automatic)

• from approx. 129 PLN/day
• deposit: approx. 1000 PLN
• economical, comfortable for long trips
• ideal for 2–4 people
  👉 great for mountain trips, city breaks and longer journeys

🚙 Toyota Corolla Touring Sports (Combi)

• from approx. 159 PLN/day
• more luggage space
• automatic + hybrid (HSD in some versions)
• deposit: approx. 1000 PLN
  👉 ideal for families and longer trips with more luggage

🚙 Toyota RAV4

• from approx. 199 PLN/day
• SUV, higher driving comfort
• good for rough roads and mountains
• deposit: approx. 2000 PLN
  👉 great choice for mountain trips and long-distance travel

🚙 Dacia Jogger

• from approx. 159 PLN/day
• comfortable 7-seater
• economical
• deposit: approx. 1500 PLN
  👉 ideal for family trips or group travel and longer journeys

🚐 Toyota ProAce (9-seater)

• from approx. 279 PLN/day
• large van for groups
• automatic, diesel
• deposit: approx. 2000 PLN
  👉 best option for group trips or family May holidays

5. Practical tips for the May holiday

• book your car in advance – availability drops quickly during this period
• plan your route but leave room for spontaneous changes
• check traffic – departures on Thursday/Friday can be very busy
• consider full insurance – for a stress-free trip
• pay attention to pick-up and return times – especially during peak season

Conclusion

May Holiday 2026 is the perfect time for a short trip – mountains, lakes or a city break. A rental car gives you full independence, comfort, and the ability to see more in less time.

The most important thing? Plan ahead and book your car early, as availability is very limited during this period.

👉 Get in the car and go wherever you really want – without compromise.

Long-term car rental is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to buying a car or taking out a lease. It allows you to use a vehicle without the responsibilities and long-term commitment of ownership.

But how does it actually work in practice?

1.What is long-term car rental?

In simple terms:
you rent a car for a fixed period and pay a monthly fee.

Contracts typically last:

• from 6 months
• up to 24, 36, or even 48 months

During that time, the car is fully at your disposal — but you don’t own it.

2.What’s included in the monthly fee?

One of the biggest advantages is that most costs are bundled into one payment.

Typically included:

• insurance (liability and comprehensive)
• regular maintenance and servicing
• technical inspections
• roadside assistance
• often seasonal tire changes

👉 This means:

• no unexpected expenses
• no dealing with paperwork
• full control over your budget

3.How does the process work step by step?

Choose your car

Pick a vehicle that fits your needs:

• city car
• SUV
• family car
• commercial vehicle

Set the conditions

You decide:

• rental duration
• annual mileage limit (e.g. 10,000–20,000 km)
• service package (basic or full)

Sign the agreement

The process is usually simpler than leasing.

You may need:

• an initial payment (optional)
• a security deposit (depends on the company)

Pick up the car

You receive a fully prepared, insured, ready-to-drive vehicle.

Use the car

Drive as usual without worrying about:

• maintenance
• repairs
• administrative issues

End of contract

At the end:

• you return the car
• you can rent a new one
• sometimes you can buy the car (depending on the offer)

4.What types of long-term rental are available?

There isn’t just one model — you can tailor the service to your needs.

Standard fixed-term rental

The most common option.

• fixed monthly payment
• fixed contract duration
• predefined mileage limit

👉 best for people who value stability

Flexible rental with car swaps

Some companies offer:

• the ability to change cars every few months
• access to different models

👉 ideal if you like variety

Business / fleet rental

Designed for companies:

• multiple vehicles
• fleet management support
• monthly invoicing

👉 popular among:

• sales teams
• service businesses
• corporate fleets

Low or zero upfront payment rental

Good for those who:

• don’t want to invest money upfront
• prefer slightly higher monthly payments instead

Flexible mileage plans

Options may include:

• higher mileage limits
• pay-per-extra-kilometer
• sometimes unlimited mileage

Rental with purchase option

Less common, but available:

• option to buy the car at the end
• price agreed in advance

👉 a hybrid between rental and leasing

5.What should you pay attention to?

Even though it’s convenient, always check:

• mileage limits and overage fees
• return conditions (wear and tear rules)
• deposit requirements
• insurance coverage details
• additional fees

What does it look like in real life?

Think of it as:

👉 one fixed monthly payment
👉 you just drive
👉 no stress about repairs
👉 after 2–3 years, you switch to a new car

It’s essentially a car subscription model.

The year 2026 brought several updates to traffic regulations. Some of them were introduced earlier, but only now are they becoming more noticeable on everyday roads.

The good news? For most drivers, this is more about clarification and consistency than a complete overhaul of the rules. Still, it’s worth knowing what has changed to drive more confidently and avoid misunderstandings.

1. Speeding and license suspension – a more consistent approach

One of the most noticeable updates is a stricter and more consistent approach to speeding violations, especially severe ones.

In practice, this means:

• exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 km/h may result in a driving license suspension
• this applies not only in urban areas but also outside city limits

This is an important shift, as previously such penalties were more strongly associated with built-up areas.

👉 Now the rule is more universal and applies across the entire road network.

Additionally, repeat offenses within a short period are treated more strictly, which can lead to harsher consequences.

2. Dangerous driving behavior – stronger focus on responsibility

In 2026, regulations place even more emphasis on so-called “aggressive driving.”

This includes behaviors such as:

• intentionally blocking traffic
• sudden and dangerous maneuvers
• drifting in unauthorized areas
• general “showing off” on public roads

In many cases, these actions are now treated more seriously than before and may be classified as more severe violations.

👉 The goal is to reduce situations that endanger others, even if they do not result in an accident.

3. Illegal street racing – no longer treated as a minor offense

Illegal street racing has been clearly addressed in the updated regulations.

In 2026:

• participation may result in significant fines
• driving bans are possible
• serious cases may be handled by court proceedings

This means such behavior is no longer treated as “youthful recklessness,” but as a serious road safety threat.

👉 The shift clearly shows a stronger stance against intentional risk-taking on public roads.

4. Alcohol and driving – stricter consequences

Changes also apply to driving under the influence of alcohol.

In severe cases, especially with high alcohol levels, possible consequences include:

• temporary or permanent driving bans
• high financial penalties
• in extreme cases, vehicle confiscation

The purpose of these measures is both punishment and prevention.

👉 The message is clear: driving under the influence carries serious consequences.

5. Driving license from age 17 – more flexibility with conditions

One of the more interesting updates in 2026 is the possibility of obtaining a driving license at the age of 17.

However, this does not mean full independence:

• young drivers are allowed to drive
• but only under the supervision of an experienced adult

👉 The idea is to gradually introduce young drivers to real road conditions.

While this change may have future implications for the rental car market, its impact is still limited for now.

6. E-scooters and micromobility – improved safety rules

Regulations also address the growing popularity of e-scooters and similar transport options.

Key updates include:

• minimum age requirements
• helmet obligations for younger users
• stricter rules for riding on sidewalks and roads

👉 The goal is to improve safety for both riders and pedestrians in urban areas.

7. Traffic organization improvements – smoother road flow

Beyond driver-focused changes, there are also structural improvements aimed at traffic flow, especially on highways and major roads.

These include:

• better regulation of truck traffic
• fewer situations where heavy vehicles block lanes
• improved overall traffic fluidity on intercity routes

👉 As a result, drivers may experience smoother and more predictable highway travel.

What do these changes mean in practice?

Overall, the direction is quite clear:

• stronger focus on road safety
• less tolerance for risky behavior
• more consistent rules across different road types

For most everyday drivers, this simply means clearer and more predictable regulations.