Sundsvall
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Car Rentals
Overview of options for renting a car to travel in and around Sundsvall.
Sections
1. Car Rental Companies in Sundsvall
Sundsvall has several reputable car rental companies, both international and local, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. These companies typically have offices at Sundsvall-Timrรฅ Airport (Midlanda Airport) and in the city center.
Major Car Rental Companies:
- Hertz: Located at Sundsvall-Timrรฅ Airport and in the city center. Offers a wide range of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUVs.
- Avis: Available at the airport and downtown Sundsvall. Known for reliable service and a variety of car options.
- Europcar: Offers competitive pricing and a good selection of vehicles. Offices are located at the airport and in the city.
- Sixt: Provides premium vehicles and flexible rental options. Available at Sundsvall-Timrรฅ Airport.
- MABI: A Swedish car rental company with offices in Sundsvall. Offers affordable rates and good customer service.
Local Car Rental Options:
- OKQ8: A Swedish gas station chain that also offers car rentals. Ideal for short-term rentals and budget-friendly options.
- Circle K: Another gas station chain with car rental services, often suitable for local trips.
2. Costs of Renting a Car
The cost of renting a car in Sundsvall depends on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and additional services. Below are approximate costs:
- Economy Cars: SEK 400โ700 per day
- Mid-size Cars: SEK 600โ1,000 per day
- SUVs or Premium Cars: SEK 1,000โ2,000 per day
- Weekly Rentals: Discounts are often available for weekly rentals, ranging from SEK 2,500โ5,000 for economy cars.
- Additional Costs:
- GPS: SEK 50โ100 per day
- Child Seats: SEK 50โ150 per day
- Additional Driver: SEK 50โ100 per day
- Winter Tires (mandatory in winter): Usually included in the price during winter months.
3. Procedures for Renting a Car
Renting a car in Sundsvall is straightforward, but itโs important to plan ahead, especially during peak travel seasons.
Steps to Rent a Car:
- Book Online or In-Person: Itโs recommended to book online in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
- Choose a Pickup Location: Most companies allow you to pick up the car at Sundsvall-Timrรฅ Airport or in the city center.
- Provide Required Documents (see below).
- Inspect the Vehicle: Before driving off, inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure itโs documented.
- Sign the Rental Agreement: Review the terms and conditions carefully, including mileage limits and fuel policies.
4. Required Documents
To rent a car in Sundsvall, youโll need the following:
- Driverโs License: A valid driverโs license is required. If your license is not in English or Swedish, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Passport or ID: A valid passport or national ID card for identification.
- Credit Card: Most rental companies require a credit card for the deposit. Debit cards are not always accepted.
- Age Requirement: The minimum age to rent a car in Sweden is typically 20โ25 years, depending on the company. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
5. Insurance Options
Car rental companies in Sundsvall offer several insurance options to protect you in case of accidents or damage:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces your financial liability in case of an accident. Often included in the rental price but may have a deductible.
- Theft Protection: Covers theft of the vehicle or parts of it.
- Supplemental Liability Insurance: Provides additional coverage for third-party claims.
- Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.
- Zero Deductible Insurance: Available as an add-on to eliminate the deductible in case of damage.
Tip: Check if your travel insurance or credit card offers rental car coverage to avoid paying for duplicate insurance.
6. Local Driving Rules in Sundsvall
Driving in Sundsvall is generally safe and straightforward, but itโs important to familiarize yourself with Swedish traffic laws:
- Drive on the Right: Sweden drives on the right-hand side of the road.
- Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h
- Rural roads: 70โ90 km/h
- Highways: 110โ120 km/h
- Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
- Alcohol Limit: Sweden has strict drunk driving laws. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%.
- Winter Driving: Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 31. Roads can be icy, so drive cautiously.
- Roundabouts: Vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way.
- Parking: Pay attention to parking signs. Paid parking is common in the city center, and fines for illegal parking are strict.
7. Specific Considerations for Driving in Sundsvall
- Weather Conditions: Sundsvall experiences snowy and icy conditions in winter. Ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tires and consider renting a car with all-wheel drive if you plan to drive in rural areas.
- E4 Highway: The E4 highway runs through Sundsvall and is the main route for traveling north or south. Itโs well-maintained but can be busy during peak hours.
- Toll Bridge: Sundsvall has a toll bridge (Sundsvallsbron) on the E4. The toll is automatically charged to the rental car, and the rental company may pass the cost on to you.
- Scenic Drives: Sundsvall is surrounded by beautiful nature. Consider driving to nearby attractions like Sรถdra Stadsberget (Southern Mountain) or the High Coast (Hรถga Kusten), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. Tips for Tourists and Immigrants
- Plan Your Route: Use GPS or a navigation app like Google Maps. Cellular coverage is excellent in Sundsvall and surrounding areas.
- Fuel Stations: Most fuel stations are self-service and accept credit cards. Diesel and petrol are available, so confirm your carโs fuel type.
- Language: Road signs are in Swedish, but most are easy to understand. Rental company staff usually speak English.
- Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for emergencies. For roadside assistance, contact the rental company or a service like SOS International.
- Explore Beyond the City: Sundsvall is a gateway to the High Coast and other natural attractions. A car gives you the flexibility to explore these areas at your own pace.
By following this guide, youโll be well-prepared to rent a car and drive confidently in Sundsvall, Sweden. Enjoy your trip!