Car Rentals in Balikpapan, IDN

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Balikpapan

Renting a car in Balikpapan provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and tailor your travel plans to suit your needs, whether you are travelling with family or on a business trip. Balikpapan offers several key attractions, such as Kemala Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, and Bekapai Garden, an urban park ideal for family outings and outdoor experiences. Additionally, the Masjid Agung At-Taqwa mosque provides a cultural experience right in the city.

Your rental car also opens up opportunities for excursions to nearby destinations. For example, Sepaku, located 38 km away, features its own beaches like Samboja Lestari and BSB Beach. In the vicinity, the cities of Sepinggan and Manggarbesar are home to more attractions, including additional beach options and parks. Having a rental car ensures that you can explore these areas conveniently without relying on public transport, making your trip to Balikpapan both enjoyable and hassle-free.

Where to stay in and around Balikpapan

• Sepaku: Situated 38 km away from Balikpapan, Sepaku offers a blend of city, culture, and business experiences. Travellers can explore local attractions like Kemala Beach and BSB Beach, both ideal for a beach holiday, or visit the Samboja Lestari reserve for a touch of nature. Shopping centres and a modern college university enhance the appeal, making it a convenient base for a variety of activities.
• Sepinggan: Nestled within the Balikpapan area, Sepinggan is an excellent choice for those seeking family-friendly and business-themed activities. Notable points of interest include BSB Beach and Bekapai Garden, perfect for outdoor enjoyment. The Masjid Agung At-Taqwa mosque adds a cultural dimension to the experience. The area’s shopping centres and malls cater to a range of needs, making it a practical option for travellers.
• Manggarbesar: Located in the Balikpapan vicinity, Manggarbesar boasts beautiful beaches such as BSB Beach and Manggar Sari Beach, which are great for family outings. For those seeking relaxation amidst nature, Bekapai Garden serves as a lovely urban park. This neighbourhood is ideal for those looking for a mix of beach leisure and family-friendly activities.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Balikpapan

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on 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 help identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most beneficial option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience might justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.