An extended vacation, where you can drive around Europe and explore off the beaten path, can be an achievable dream. If you are considering a European vacation where you will have much more freedom and flexibility than with a guided tour, driving a car through Europe can be the ultimate vacation experience. The best and least expensive way to achieve this is through short term car leasing.

Short term car leasing involves buying a new car straight from the factory while you are in Europe, and ending the lease by having the car manufacturer buy back the car when you are ready to leave. There are two main companies in Europe that participate in this program, Renault Eurodrive, and Peugeot. This method of driving a car on your vacation has many benefits and only a few restrictions.

The main factor you will want to consider is how long you will need the vehicle. For a short term lease, you will need to lease the vehicle for at least 17-21 days, depending on the manufacturer. These programs work well if you have a longer trip planned, and want to use the vehicle for at least three weeks or so. You will be able to keep the vehicle for close to six months, which allows for a nice long vacation. The other requirement is that you have a permanent address that is not in the European Union. As long as you are living in the US, Canada, or a similar county not in the EU, you will meet this requirement.

There are many benefits to leasing as opposed to renting a car in Europe. First, you will have a new vehicle, so you can be assured its in good shape. If there are any mechanical problems, you will also have 24 hour roadside assistance included in your package.

One of the major benefits with short term leasing is the cost. By leasing, you will avoid the value-added tax (VAT) that can make up to 20 percent of a car rental fee in Europe. You will also get complete insurance without having to pay any additional fees for collision damage waivers. Unlike a rental car, you will protected from paying out of pocket if the vehicle is damaged without having to get additional insurance.

For many tourists, another benefit is the lack of age restrictions that normally accompany traditional car rentals. As long as you are over 18, you can lease a vehicle, and more importantly, there are no maximum age limits. With car rental companies, many have a cut-off age of 70, and they won't rent to anyone older, or let anyone older drive the vehicle.

Starting and ending the lease process is simple. You can reserve your car, and complete most of the paperwork online, before you even leave for your vacation. When finished, you will be able to drop your vehicle off at a variety of locations that are convenient to your departure.

If you are planning an extended holiday, short term car leasing should be your first choice. You will have a lot of flexibility, and receive major savings over renting. If you need an excuse to extend your vacation to the required leasing period of three weeks or so, your car savings may help make up the costs of additional vacation time.