Want to enjoy a smooth, safe and enjoyable vacation on Bali island? In this article, we will discuss some suggestions in what you need to know about rent a car in Bali. One of the best way to explore all that Bali has to offer to see and enjoy by vacationers at a cost that is definitely cheaper than if you do all your tour plans by taxi. Enjoy all the tourist attractions and sights seeing with no time limitation and on your own planning as well.
You can define your own adventure route, stopping whenever and wherever you want become the big advantage if you hiring a car for your mobilization needs while on vacation in Bali. Drive to explore the southern part of Bali with beautiful beaches which have good waves for surfing or drive inland to explore the highlands with exotic Temples, beautiful lakes and views of the green rain-forest. Heading little bit to the West towards Tabanan Regency to enjoy the beautiful rice fields in Jatiluwih. Enjoy your journey safely.
Compared to ridding a motorbike, traveling by car is much safer, because modern cars are equipped with safety features that can minimize the danger to the driver and passengers in case of collision and a lot harder to fall off a car as well. Mini SUVs and hatchbacks are the most common types of cars provided by rental companies (such as Toyota Agya, Mitsubishi Xpander and Toyota Avanza), but many other brands and models are available at car rentals in Bali.
Cars are available for rent daily, weekly or monthly. Other options that available are whether you will drive yourself or want to hire a Bali driver (with an additional charge for the driver, of course). A tour guide is also available if needed in addition to a driver. If you are staying for a long period in a hotel, you can ask the front office staff to help you in book a car.
Rental car theft cases are very common here, so don’t be surprised if the owner or company sometimes become very strict about the returning time. If you don’t return the rented car within 48 hours from the agreed return time and date without any renewal confirmation, they will not hesitate to file a police report for the car theft. Please pay attention about this matter to avoid any misunderstanding.
Do you need an international driving license to drive a car in Bali?
A driver must have a driver’s license, wherever it is. The completeness of driving paperwork checks are routinely carried out by the traffic police in Bali, especially for foreign drivers. If you are going to drive, make sure to bring all the necessary driving documents including an international driver’s license for foreign drivers. You will be fined if you don’t bring these documents.
If you do not have an international driver’s license, you can apply it to the international service Poltabes Denpasar on Jalan Gunung Shanghyang Denpasar. A temporary residence permit can also be obtained here.
Is insurance included in the Bali car rental price?
Some car rental service providers have collaborated with insurance companies and add premium fees to the car rental price. But some of them are not have any and will only add the cost of insurance premiums if consumers want it. To make sure, ask some information about it at your hotel’s front office and they will certainly provide good options and suggestions for you.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Bali?
The type and brand of the cars are the main factor, the daily rental cost are generally between Rp. 150,000 to Rp. 500,000 without a driver and guide. It cost starting from Rp. 650,000 for Bali car rental with driver but tour guide available with additional cost. Cars with manual transmissions are mostly cheaper than automatic ones.
Here is the table of car rental in Bali with driver cost:
| Car Type | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Avanza | IDR 650.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
| Toyota Rush | IDR 750.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
| Suzuki Ertiga | IDR 750.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
| Suzuki APV | IDR 650.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
| Toyota Innova | IDR 850.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
| Toyota Innova Reborn | IDR 1.100.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
| Toyota HiAce | IDR 1.350.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
| Isuzu Elf Short | IDR 950.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
| Isuzu Elf Long | IDR 1.350.000 | A Day (Max 10 Hours) |
Check carefully
Pay attention to car rental’s regulations, especially regarding returning and rental times. Usually the daily rental time without a driver is 24 hours, and an additional fee will be charged for excess usage time of around Rp. 75,000 for an hour and will be charged an additional full day rental if the additional usage is more than three hours. But remember, every car rental service provider has slightly different rules. Be sure to tell the car rental company if you want to use the car beyond the initial agreement.
Inspect the vehicle physical to ensure there are no damages. If you find it, it is advisable to take a photo of it and notify the car rental company. Check the AC and the tires of the car you are going to rent. Make sure everything is working properly. Then ask about their regulations on fuel. There are various rules about this. Make sure you understand it to avoid any problems later.
Some tips and advice
Remember, driving in all parts of Indonesia archipelago is different from in most Western countries. In Bali, you have to drive on the left side of the road with the steering wheel and driver’s seat on the right side of the car. Traffic in Bali is quite heavy, with narrow roads and busy traffic, can cause stress. Obey traffic rules and stay focus, avoid making fatal mistakes.
Sometimes there are unpredictable road closures in Bali, usually for religious and cultural activities. It is common case if you may get stuck behind the ceremonial procession for half an hour or more. Check your fuel level and remember to bring enough drinking water and snacks with you.
Many locally managed car rental companies in Bali can be found in the most popular tourist spots such as Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Nusa Dua and Ubud, with a clear sign that reads, “Car Rental”. It’s easier to ask your hotel front office staff to arrange everything for you.
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