How to find a cheap car hire deal in China
Take control of your trip with a cheap rental car in China. With prices starting from P2,268 a day, you get freedom without the high price tag. From zippy compacts to roomy SUVs, we'll help you find your kind of ride at your kind of price.
P15,876 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental if your trip is more than just a quick visit.
Browse the range of car rentals in Fuzhou. This is where you'll find the cheapest rides in China.
Overall, the most popular city to rent a car in is Beijing.
When comparing companies, check what's on offer from Hertz. It's a trusted name in China.
There's no need to travel far after landing to pick up your ride. Car rentals are available at major airports including Guangzhou Airport, Shanghai Pudong Airport and Beijing Capital Airport.
Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou and Shenzhen are among the top cities to organise a set of wheels.
A one-way rental could work in your favor. Providers often lower prices when they need to move cars between sites. When searching for a car for rent in China, choose 'Return car to a different location' to access those deals.
Planning a multi-week rental? It could be cheaper to book a full month, so test a few date combinations to find out what works best.
Reserve a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy' and avoid refueling costs. It comes with a full tank and goes back full, so it's easier to keep track of what you're paying.
Unlimited mileage lets you focus on the journey instead of tracking the odometer. Check for this feature under the 'Policies' filter and rack up the miles, not the fees.
Best time to book a car hire in China
Timing is everything when it comes to finding the best price on a car hire in China. Try booking around two weeks before your departure date.
The most affordable month to rent a car is March, with an average rate of P2,881 a day.
January tends to be the most expensive time of year.
Compare car hire types in China
Economy: Set off in one of these and help keep your travel budget on track. Lower daily rates and fuel-efficient engines mean you'll spend less overall while still getting a smooth, easy-to-handle ride.
Small: Including mini and economy classes, small cars are ideal for everyday travel. If you're searching for a cheap rental car in China, this is where you'll find some of the best deals. They're perfect for city driving and quick getaways, with low fuel use, easy handling, and enough space for the essentials.
Medium: If you need more space without going big, this hits the mark. Medium rentals offer more room for passengers and bags, as well as a nice balance of efficiency and performance. You'll find compact and intermediate models here.
Large: More people, more bags, more places to be. Large cars offer extra passenger space and increased luggage capacity, making them ideal for families and long-distance drives. Go for one of these full-size rides when room is non-negotiable.
SUV: From highways to scenic detours, SUVs are ready for it all. With an elevated driving position, adjustable seating arrangements, and stable performance across a range of terrain, they're perfect for road trips across China.
Van: This type of car for rent in China includes commercial vans and trucks. With generous load capacity and practical interior layouts, they're built to transport bulky items, equipment or bigger groups in one go.
Luxury: Ready to raise the bar? From looks that turn heads to advanced tech and powerful performance, luxury vehicles dial up every part of the driving experience. This is what you book when only the best will do.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your rental car is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, it helps cover you in a tough spot. Keep in mind that not all insurance policies are equal, so make sure you know exactly what's included.
Upgrade your ride with extras like a reverse camera or navigation unit. They can make your drive smoother and more enjoyable when you rent a car in China.
Driving in China: What you need to know
Rental age requirements aren't always the same across the board. Providers can set their own policies, and if you're a younger driver, you could face extra fees or restrictions. Check the terms set by each supplier before booking your rental in China.
Kids coming with you? Car seat regulations vary from one place to another, and the best setup may depend on their weight, height and age. Find out if you need to add one to your car hire reservation in China.
Bring the right documents to avoid delays at pick-up. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (no screenshots) plus another photo ID. Also bring a credit card that can cover the deposit. If anything else is expected, it'll be listed in your booking.
Spend some time getting acquainted with your rental. Check your seat and mirrors, learn where everything is, and get a feel for its handling before you set off. And don't forget to stay on the right side of the road in China.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's typically around 45kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways. Always go by the posted signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in China is 0.02%. Because alcohol doesn't affect all people equally, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink at all.
You'll be using the Chinese yuan (CNY) for everyday expenses here. You may find it helpful to carry a mix of cash and cards for more flexibility when paying.
