Car Rentals in Asia

The massive continent of Asia encompasses all of the territory from the mountains around the Black Sea in the west, to the snow fields of Siberia in the east, and the tropical islands of the southeast. While exploring one of the many travel destinations throughout this vast region, an Asia rent a car may be your best option for getting around. Asia car rentals are provided at all of the major airports, including Tokyo, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Singapore, by companies including  Budget, Avis, Dollar, Hertz, National, Advantage, Sixt, and Europcar. Asia car rentals are also available at most urban centers and tourist destinations from the same agencies, as well as numerous smaller regional companies.

Laws and driving conditions vary as widely as the cultures and scenery across Asia, so make sure you are comfortable with those applicable wherever you plan to visit. In most countries, you must be at least 21 to rent a car, often with an additional young driver fee if you are under 25.  Many Asia rent a car sites will accept your regular driver's license, but some may require you to purchase a local license or an International Driving Permit as well. Check with the rental company before crossing international borders and make sure your insurance still covers you, if you are allowed. Familiarize yourself with international traffic signs and regional driving laws, and pay attention to which side of the road you will be driving on. Central Asia, Russia, and the Caucasus all drive on the right. However, many former British colonies and their neighbors drive on the left, including Hong Kong, India, Pakistan, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan. All of China, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, North and South Korea, and Taiwan drive on the right.

Expect relatively expensive rental fees along with chaotic and congested driving conditions in major cities. In sharp contrast, driving in rural areas and in less developed countries can be very pleasant, with light traffic, and incredibly cheap fees. The tradeoff is often poorly maintained road conditions and unreliable cars, so be sure to choose a company you trust, and purchase coverage for emergency breakdown/towing services. Avoid driving at night and look out for motor bikes or bicycles, which are often ridden into oncoming traffic and with little regard for tourists unfamiliar with sharing the road.