Rent a Car in Bali
A Bali rental car is a convenient way to explore the exotic Bali. Verily, several of its attractions are remotely located, while a rental car in Bali is nearly the only way to discover the hidden gems of the island. Public buses don’t reach many of Bali’s sites and attractions, whereas taxis and ride-sharing companies are an alternative indeed, yet they end up rather expensive and don’t provide the independence entailed in rides with a Bali rental car. That’s a few of the reasons why car hire in Bali is one of the most popular transit methods.
Is it a Good Idea to Rent a Car in Bali?
A vast majority of the island’s visitors rent a car in Bali. Many of them aim to relish adventurous moments in Bali, and there’s no better way to enjoy thrilling experiences than with a Bali car rental. Verily, you can make your way through all the must-see Bali’s sites, such as Kuta Beach, Lovina Beach, and other surfing beaches, the imposing Besakih Temple, the picturesque Ubud, and the West Bali National Park, or simply drive your rental car and get lost in the tropical greenery, the rice fields, and the scenic fishing villages. However, even if you aren’t the adventurous type of traveler, a Bali rental car will still be handy as taxis are efficient but hard to find in some of the more remotely situated attractions, whereas buses are regarded as insufficient (especially for trips to the northern part of Bali). Overall, if you want to get to know the spiritual Island of Gods at your own pace and don’t mind the often narrow streets, the less well-maintained local roads, and the drive-through traffic, car rental in Bali is something you should definitely think about.
How do I Rent a Car in Bali?
You won’t face difficulties in renting your car in Bali. Various providers are available on the island, offering top-rated services and tempting prices. That being said, many international car rental companies don’t operate in Bali. Still, AVIS has desks on the island, while a wide number of local agencies provide reliable and efficient car hire services and amenities. Thus, you’ll have to compare the options and come up with the ideal one for you and your budget. From that moment on, you can either book your Bali rental car online or on the spot once you arrive on the island. However, you should keep in mind that local agencies may not have online platforms.
Tips to Secure the Best Car Hire Deal
- Book your rental car in Bali as soon as possible. Early reservations usually come with not-to-be-missed deals, while you’ll have access to a wider range of vehicles.
- Can’t make up your mind concerning the most reliable car rental agency or the ideal car type for you? You can always check previous customers’ reviews.
- Bali hotels usually collaborate with car hire companies. Thus, you can ask your hotel to book a car for you.
- The fuel-to-fuel policy is on your side. Verily, agencies tend to overcharge fuel.
- You’re going to be charged for your rental car in Bali per day. Thus, if you exceed that time frame and return the vehicle later, you’ll be charged extra.
- You can rent a car from one location and return it to another. Still, you may be charged extra.
- It is highly advisable to take some pics of the vehicle or even make a video to capture any existing damages.
- Extra amenities, such as additional drivers, GPS, child seats, luggage racks, etc., are certainly handy but also add a significant cost to the final price of your rental car.
What do you Need to Rent a Car in Bali?
Your car rental company will ask you to hand over an ID or passport, a valid driver’s license, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. The issue of an International Driving Permit will most probably also be required. Nevertheless, chances are that the Bali car rental company won’t ask you for the IDP. Still, you may be asked to show it during a police inspection.
How Old do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Bali?
You’ll have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Bali. Still, there may be higher age limits for some vehicle types (premium, luxury, etc.). Moreover, a young driver fee may apply if you are between 21 and 24 years of age. That being said, many local car hire companies may agree to rent you a car even if you are younger than 21.
Is it Expensive to Rent a Car in Bali?
Bali car rentals aren’t pricey, at least when compared to rental cars in other popular holiday destinations. Expectantly, their cost varies. Verily, the vehicle’s type, the renting duration, the time of the year, etc., are some of the factors that affect the final cost of car hire in Bali. In general terms, the price of a mini car rental in Bali is around 617224Rp (36.50€/40$).
Is it Better to Rent a Car or Scooter in Bali?
Travelers who aren’t familiar with two-wheel driving or travel with their family prefer renting a car in Bali. As a matter of fact, mini and compact cars are widely picked by Bali’s visitors, while Toyota Agya is one of the most popular car models. On the other hand, scooters are the favorite way of transit for locals. There’s a reason behind that choice. Streets in Bali are, in general terms, narrow, and traffic jams are notorious. Thus, flexible scooters are often proven “life-saving”.
Is it Better to Drive or Hire a Driver in Bali?
Car rental with a driver in Bali is a common practice. Although the road network of the island is well-maintained, some local roads are quite dangerous, while a few travelers seem to find orientating around Bali challenging. What’s more, the usual heavy traffic prevents many visitors from renting a car, as they find the driving experience tiring, while parking is another deterrent. On the other hand, local drivers are area-knowledgeable and ready to suggest sites and destinations upon request. Truth be told, a car hire with a driver in Bali isn’t the ideal option if autonomy and independence are important to you. Still, it’ll make up for its “inflexibility” by being highly convenient and guaranteeing stress-free rides. Moreover, if you are concerned about the extra cost, you should bear in mind that a car rental with a driver in Bali is just slightly costlier than renting a car without one.
Where to Rent a Scooter or Car in Bali?
Most visitors pick up their Bali car rental at the airport. However, car hire companies are scattered around the island, with pick-up locations all over its territory. In general terms, off-airport locations are more affordable. Still, you’ll have to make your way to the agreed pick-up site, adding time, cost, and hassle to your journey. On the other hand, one-way car rental is also an option. Nevertheless, you may have to pay an extra fee.
Is Bali Left-Hand Drive?
Yes, drivers in Bali drive on the left side of the road. Thus, the steering wheel is on the right seat of the vehicle. Consequently, if you come from a right-hand drive country, you’ll need some time to familiarize yourself with the local way of driving.
Is it Difficult to Drive in Bali?
Driving in Bali can be challenging as roads (especially the local ones) tend to be narrow and often unsafe. Verily, the island’s road network is well-maintained but wasn’t originally designed to serve the wide number of vehicles circulating in Bali nowadays. Moreover, traffic jams are an everyday phenomenon, doubling and tripling each ride’s duration, while locals often drive aggressively, obeying the unwritten traffic rules of the area and not so much the official legislation. Therefore, renting a scooter or opting for a Bali car rental with a driver tend to be the most popular options.
Do Rental Cars Need Full Insurance?
Bali car rentals, most of the time, include a minimum insurance package in their fares. Still, there is usually an insurance deductible, meaning that you should be held responsible for up to a certain amount of money if you make a damage claim. Therefore, additional insurance is recommended to always be on the safe side. On the other hand, if you want to save money on your car hire expenses, you should check if your credit card offers car rental insurance coverage.
How can I Rent a Car without a Credit Card?
Many local car hire agencies accept cash payments as well. Overall, cash is the preferred payment method in Bali after all. However, they may still require a credit card as a safety measure. In any case, if you opt for a cash payment, you should never pay the entire amount of money upfront.
Is it Easy to Park a Car in Bali?
In total contrast to other popular vacation destinations, street parking in Bali is available almost everywhere. There are areas where street parking is free and areas where you’ll have to pay a parking fee. In that case, you’ll be approached by an officer, who’ll give you a ticket and ask you to pay a fixed amount of money (no matter the parking duration). Moreover, the vast majority of well-known hotels and restaurants have parking lots and offer valet parking services as well (for a fee). On the other hand, various public lots are scattered around Bali. Thus, all things considered, parking in Bali shouldn’t be a hard task.
A Few More Tips about Bali Car Rentals
- There isn’t an official blood alcohol limit in Bali. However, drinking and driving must be avoided in any circumstances and can still lead to a fine.
- You should always respect the local traffic rules. As far as the speed limits are concerned, urban areas have a speed limit of 50km/h (31mph), and rural zones have a limit of 80km/h (50mph), while the limit on highways is 100km/h (62mph).
- Please keep in mind that local drivers tend to overuse the horn, especially when they overtake a vehicle.
- There are only a few toll roads in Bali.
- You should always have your personal and car documents with you.
- Most car rentals in Bali are manual. Still, you’ll find automated cars as well. They are usually somewhat more expensive.
- Bali doesn’t have numerous electric vehicle charging stations.
- The temperature in Bali can be really high. Thus, it is recommended to opt for an air-conditioned rental car in Bali.
- Most Bali car rental companies don’t allow journeys to other Indonesian islands.
- In general terms, local car hire companies are regarded as more affordable than international ones.