When you're travelling, one of the best ways that you can explore, travel off the beaten path, and discover a country at your own pace -- is to hire or rent a car. However, it seems that unless you're fully prepared to drive in a foreign country, it could be a lot less relaxing that you think and you're probably better taking a train or bus.

If you've seen the first episodes of Amazing Race each season, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. Tourists in a foreign country meeting the usual challenges: driving on the opposite side of the road, "stick" or manual transmission found in most vehicles, and the unawareness of local driving customs and signs. That's not to mention the total lack of knowing where you are going, even if you have a map. Then, there are the roundabouts and one way streets (not marked on typical maps).

In any case, here are some tips - from experience - on driving in a foreign country:

Do your homework. Unfortunate, but true. If you're remotely thinking of renting a car in a country that you'll be travelling to, then it's a good idea to spec out what is required for you to rent a car there. In most countries, you won't have a problem as long as you're an experienced driver (usually 5+ years with a full license), and as long as you have a credit card.

Book early, if you can. If you know that you want to rent a car and for which day, then it's beet to book ahead. This will guarantee you a car for the day you plan to rent it. There are many international car rental companies who offer rentals and bookings online.

Save money. If you're booking your flight and accommodation online, you can probably save money by packaging them all together and getting your rental for a little cheaper than if you rented it outright on your own.

Learn the rules. Find out anything you can about driving customs in the country you're going to drive in. This is so you don't get surprised by unknown road signs or get pulled over for breaking any of the country's road rules.

Get the details. Make sure you get the details on what you're paying for. For example, do you have to fill up the gas before returning the car; are you able to drive the car over the border; will it cost extra to drop the car off at a different location than the one in which you are picking it up; will you be charged per mile, per hour, or per day, and etc.

Insurance. Most rental car companies offer you a package that includes insurance. But check to see whether you're covered by your travel insurance, your credit card, or by a driving organization. Remember that insurance policies can differ from one country to another, so it's important to see exactly what is covered, i.e. personal accident insurance, collision insurance only.

To this day, I wonder what the right way to navigate out of the 8 lane roundabout at L'Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France is - because I am quite sure that what I did could have initiated an accident large enough to cause the desecration of this famous monument. Alas, lesson learned - and I hope you'll avoid any possible misery when renting your car on your next vacation.