Asia Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Asia

Renting a car in Asia offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace, making it an excellent choice for your travel plans. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible itineraries that suit your preferences. You may want to visit key attractions like Tokyo Disneyland®, a family-friendly theme park in Japan, or relax at Jomtien Beach in Thailand, perfect for some beach time. If you are looking for scenic views, Lake Kawaguchi in Japan provides a romantic atmosphere surrounded by nature. Moreover, having a vehicle allows convenient access to popular destinations within Asia. For instance, you can drive to Thailand to enjoy various beaches such as Kata Beach and Ao Nang Beach. Alternatively, if Japan is on your itinerary, you can easily travel to Universal Studios Japan or Tokyo DisneySea®. The Maldives is also accessible, where you can explore sites like the Maldives Islamic Centre and Hanifaru Bay. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience by providing the flexibility to discover the diverse attractions across this vast continent.

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

• Bangkok: The vibrant capital of Thailand, Bangkok is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of culture and modernity. It's a great base for exploring shopping centres and malls, while local attractions such as Jomtien Beach and family-friendly tourist precincts are within reach. Enjoy a variety of dining options at nearby restaurants and bars, making it a perfect spot for families and business travellers alike.
• Kyoto: Known for its stunning scenery and rich culture, Kyoto is a must-visit in Japan. Surrounded by mountains and beautiful lakes, it's ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers. Don't miss the opportunity to relax in an onsen after a day of exploring. With attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland® and Universal Studios Japan not far away, it offers a blend of natural beauty and entertainment.
• Shanghai: As a modern city steeped in history, Shanghai is perfect for those interested in culture and city life. The Bund esplanade provides stunning views and a romantic atmosphere, while Beijing Road Pedestrian Street is ideal for shopping and dining experiences. With attractions like Shanghai Disneyland© nearby, families will find plenty to enjoy during their stay.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Asia

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for affordability, 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. You’re likely to obtain lower rates when booking in advance and enjoy improved availability, 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 compromise 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 accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on 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 options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may 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 unnecessary expenses and offers added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary 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.