Renting a Car at Krakow Airport? A Simple Guide to a Stress-Free Start to Your Journey.
27.08.2025
Your plane lands at Krakow Balice Airport. You already have a plan in mind: pick up the keys, toss your suitcases in the trunk, and head straight for the picturesque corners of the Lesser Poland (Małopolska) region. It's a perfect scenario, and renting a car is a key part of it.
We want this first step to be as simple as possible for you – without ambiguity, hidden costs, or unnecessary stress. That's why we've prepared a short, practical guide that explains the two most important issues that raise the most questions: the security deposit and insurance. Knowing how it works will make you feel confident and comfortable.
In this article:
First Steps After Arrival: Picking Up the Car Step-by-Step
Before we get to the finances, let's organize the pickup process itself. Good preparation is half the battle and a guarantee that everything will go smoothly.
1. Documents
Have three things ready: your ID card or passport, a valid driver's license, and a credit card issued in the main driver's name. This is important – a debit card or a card belonging to someone else is usually not accepted for the security deposit block.
2. Getting to Our Office
Our office is located right next to the airport, which allows us to operate more efficiently and avoid the crowds in the terminal. After collecting your luggage:
- Head to bus stop no. 3 (marked as Kraków Airport 03 / Waiting area 3). You will easily find it right by the exit from the arrivals hall, on the left side.
Look for our free shuttle bus with the YourRent logo. It will pull up to this spot to take you on a short, 2-minute journey to our office. If you want to make sure you don't miss it, you will find a photo of the bus in your booking confirmation email. If you have any questions, simply call the number provided in your reservation – we are at your disposal.
3. Protocol and Car Inspection
After signing the agreement at our office, you will receive the keys and a handover protocol. This is a document that notes all existing damage to the vehicle (scratches, dents). Take 3 minutes to walk around the car and check if its actual condition matches the document. If you notice anything new, report it to an employee before you drive off. It's also good practice to take a few photos or a short video – for your own peace of mind.
The Security Deposit – What Is It and Why You Don't Need to Fear It?
The word "deposit" often causes anxiety. Unnecessarily so. It's a standard procedure that protects the interests of both parties. Let's explain it simply.
- What is a security deposit? It is not a fee. It is a specific amount that is temporarily blocked on your credit card for the duration of the rental. The money does not leave your account; only the limit on your card is reduced by this amount.
- Why is it needed? The deposit is a form of security for the rental company in case the car is returned damaged, without fuel, or if you receive a traffic ticket. Instead of engaging in complicated procedures, the company can simply deduct the due amount from the blocked funds.
- When will I get my money back? The block is released automatically after the car is returned without any issues. Depending on your bank, the funds are usually available on your card again within a few business days.
How we do it at YourRent: We treat the security deposit as a standard security measure. If you return the car in the same condition you received it, releasing the block is a pure formality for us. We act quickly and efficiently.
Insurance – What You Should Know to Travel Peacefully?
This is the second key element worth understanding. By choosing your insurance, you are deciding on your peace of mind and level of financial responsibility.
- Basic Package (with a deductible/excess): Every car in a legally operating rental company must have basic liability (OC) and collision (AC) insurance. However, the standard rental price includes an option with a so-called deductible (also known as excess). What does this mean? It means that in the event of causing a collision or damaging the car, your financial liability is limited to a certain, predetermined amount (e.g., 2000 PLN). The rental company will not charge you more than this amount, but you are responsible for damages up to this value.
- Full Coverage Package (with zero deductible/excess): This is an optional extra that we highly recommend for complete peace of mind. For a small surcharge per day of rental, you can reduce your deductible to zero. In practice, this means that in the event of vehicle damage, your financial liability is zero (or limited to a symbolic amount). Regardless of whether it's a minor parking scratch or a more serious collision, you don't have to worry about the costs.
How we do it at YourRent: As a professional car rental company in Balice airport Krakow, we give you a clear choice. You can opt for the basic package or purchase full protection. Our on-site staff always explains the differences so you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Keys in Hand, What's Next?
With this knowledge, you are perfectly prepared. The entire rental process becomes simple and predictable. You know what documents you need, you understand what a security deposit is, and you can consciously choose your insurance coverage.
Now, only one thing remains: to hit the road and enjoy everything the Lesser Poland (Małopolska) region has to offer. Have a great trip!