Car Rental in the Philippines: What You Need to Know
The Philippines is a beautiful archipelago made up of more than 7,000 islands. With its stunning beaches and lush jungle scenery, it’s no wonder many people flock to the country for their vacation.
But for those who want to explore all that the islands have to offer, renting a car is the best option. With a rental car, you can get around quickly and conveniently. But before you rent a car in the Philippines, there are a few things you need to know.
Driving in the Philippines
The first thing you need to know before you rent a car in the Philippines is that the country drives on the right side of the road. This is the same as in the United States, Canada, and other countries in the Americas.
The roads in the Philippines are generally good, but they can be congested in cities due to high traffic. You may also encounter some potholes and other road hazards. It’s important to drive carefully and obey all traffic laws.
You will also need to be aware of the various speed limits in the country. Generally, the speed limit is 50 km/h (30 mph) in rural areas and 40 km/h (25 mph) in urban areas. In some cities, the speed limit can be as low as 20 km/h (12 mph).
Required Documents
If you want to rent a car in the Philippines, you will need to have your driver’s license and a valid form of identification, such as a passport. You may also need to provide proof of insurance and a credit card for payment.
Rental Companies
There are several car rental companies in the Philippines, including international companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar. You can also rent cars from local companies such as Autofare and Metrocar.
The prices vary depending on the type of car you rent and the length of your rental period. Generally, you can expect to pay around $30-$40 USD per day for a small economy car.
Insurance
Car rental insurance is highly recommended in the Philippines. Without insurance, you could be liable for any damage or theft to the car.
You may be able to purchase insurance from the rental company or your own car insurance provider. Be sure to read the policy carefully and make sure you understand the terms and conditions.
Age Requirements
In the Philippines, most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may also require drivers to be 25 or older.
If you are under the age of 21, you may be able to rent a car from a local company. However, you may need to pay a surcharge or provide additional documents.
Fuel Policy
Most car rental companies in the Philippines have a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning that you will need to return the car with a full tank of gas. If you don’t, you may be charged a fee.
It’s important to plan ahead and make sure you have enough fuel to get you to your destination and back.
Additional Fees
When you rent a car in the Philippines, you may be charged additional fees. These can include airport fees, delivery fees, and taxes. Be sure to ask the rental company about any additional fees before you book your rental.
Conclusion
Car rental in the Philippines can be a great way to explore the country’s many islands and attractions. But before you rent a car, it’s important to understand the requirements, regulations, and fees associated with car rental in the country.
By familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations, you can ensure that your car rental experience in the Philippines is a pleasant and hassle-free one.
