Asia Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Asia

Renting a car in Asia offers significant freedom and flexibility for your travel plans. With a rental vehicle, you can explore key attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and adapt your itinerary as you go. For instance, if you visit Japan, you can drive to Tokyo Disneyland®, which is perfect for family entertainment, or head to Lake Kawaguchi for stunning scenery and outdoor activities. In Thailand, you can enjoy the sun at Jomtien Beach and other beautiful beaches like Kata Beach and Ao Nang Beach without the hassle of public transport schedules. Additionally, a rental car allows you to conveniently navigate between popular destinations across the continent, from the Maldives’ scenic Hulhumale Beach to Japan's vibrant cityscapes. Whether you're looking for romantic spots, thrilling theme parks, or relaxing beach experiences, having a car at your disposal simplifies the journey, giving you more time to immerse yourself in the diverse cultures and landscapes of Asia.

Most popular car hires in Asia

• Compact: Compact cars are a popular choice for travellers in Asia, accommodating up to 5 people and providing space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes them ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a fuel-efficient option that is easy to manoeuvre in urban settings. Renting a compact car allows you to navigate bustling city streets with ease while enjoying the flexibility to explore various attractions at your own pace.
• Economy: The economy car category is another highly booked option in Asia, also seating up to 5 travellers and accommodating up to 2 medium suitcases. This type is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families seeking a cost-effective solution for their travels. With lower fuel consumption, economy cars enable you to stretch your budget while enjoying the freedom of road trips across diverse landscapes.
• Midsize SUV: Midsize SUVs are suitable for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option offers more room and comfort for longer journeys, making it an excellent choice for those who need extra luggage capacity. With a midsize SUV, you can enjoy a smooth ride while having the flexibility to explore a variety of attractions comfortably.

Where to stay in Asia

• Thailand: A fantastic destination for families and business travellers, Thailand offers a vibrant experience with attractions like Jomtien Beach, Kata Beach, and Ao Nang Beach, all suitable for a beach holiday. The proximity to shopping centres and local dining options enhances your stay. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to February when the weather is pleasant.
• Japan: Known for its stunning outdoor scenery and adventure opportunities, Japan is ideal for those seeking a unique experience. Explore attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland®, Universal Studios Japan, and Tokyo DisneySea®, all perfect for families. The ski fields and resorts offer exhilarating winter activities. Spring (March to May) is a particularly lovely time to visit, showcasing cherry blossoms in full bloom.
• China: Rich in culture and history, China is perfect for families and city-themed travellers. Explore the historic sites near your accommodation, including The Bund, a lovely esplanade, and Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, ideal for city exploration. Shanghai Disneyland© provides fun for families. The autumn months of September to November offer comfortable weather for sightseeing.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Asia

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge when collecting your rental car from the airport, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides additional peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is mandatory to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Asia

The best value period to rent a car in Asia is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February and June also offer good options, with low prices and demand. However, from April through August, prices tend to rise, especially in August when demand peaks. The most expensive period is December, which sees high prices and high demand, making it the busiest time for car hires in the region.