If you’re considering renting a car in Bali there are a few things you need to know before you book your rental. Firstly, the majority of people will tell you that it’s not a good idea and that you should get a scooter or private driver instead. However, we believe that renting a car in Bali can be a fun and practical way to see the island if done right. That’s why we created this helpful guide for those who want to have the ultimate road trip around the Island of the Gods without any of the hassle but with all of the benefits.
Just make sure to come prepared and consider your personal travel style and needs to figure out if a rental car is the right choice for you.
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Why we’re Bali experts
Hi, I’m Victoria, and I’m your go-to source for Bali and Indonesia travel information.
I’ve lived on this beautiful island for several years now and visited plenty of times before that, both as a tourist and backpacker. I know how to save money and when to splurge on things, so I’ll introduce you to the best luxury getaways for a special occasion but also the cheapest airport pickups and fun group tours you can join if you want to make friends.
After so many years on the island, you can trust me to compare car rentals, hiring a driver and driving a scooter. My blog posts are always up-to-date and accurate, and since prices and requirements change all the time, you’ll want to get your information from someone who lives in Bali and isn’t just a tourist who came here once.
Best transport methods in Bali
No time to read? Here is a quick summary to help you decide if you should rent a car in Bali.
| Pros | Cons | |
| Car rental | -flexibility -comfort -storage -affordable for larger groups -perfect for multi-day trips -privacy for your group | -chaotic driving conditions -easy to get stuck in traffic -need a good insurance policy -expensive for one or two people -may have difficulty with parking spots -need to add fuel cost |
| Private driver | -local guide -no need to drive -comfort -storage -affordable for larger groups -can relax during the drive -no need to worry about parking or fuel | -easy to get stuck in traffic -expensive for one or two people -not as flexible as driving yourself -can be expensive for multi-day trips -not as much privacy |
| Scooter rental | -very flexible -much faster than a car in traffic -affordable -parking is easy -perfect for two people | -dangerous road conditions -not suitable for inexperienced drivers -uncomfortable for longer drives -rain -bad condition of rental bikes |
| Grab/gojek/taxis | -perfect to get from A to B -very convenient -affordable -no need to worry about driving -ideal for shorter distances | -not suitable for airport pickup -grab/gojek prohibited in popular tourist areas (for example Canggu, Padang Bai, Nusa Penida, Sanur, Nusa Lembongan, Tanah Lot Temple, Nusa Dua, Seminyak, Kintamani, Ubud, Uluwatu, Amed, Lovina) -not suitable for remote places -not ideal for multi-day trips -not much flexibility -costs can add up |
| Walking | -good way to get to know the area -mostly suitable on the beach -spend time outside | –Bali is not a walkable place -no sidewalks -can be dangerous in traffic -not suitable for longer distances -heat and rain can make walking uncomfortable |
| Public transport | -affordable -buses generally have AC | -bus system is extremely limited -some tourist buses may be expensive -no flexibility -remote areas not serviced |
Should you rent a car in Bali?
Most people will tell you that renting a car in Bali is not necessary. It’s definitely not a common thing to do for tourists since there are other more convenient transport methods available. The vast majority of travellers will rent a scooter, or if they’re not confident drivers, hire a private driver instead. Apps like grab and gojek (which work just like Uber) are also very popular, and using a combination of all these options will mean that you do not really need to rent a car in Bali.
I recommend avoiding renting one if you’re going to be driving around congested areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Canggu, Berawa, Umalas and even Denpasar. Use grab and gojek instead, or drive around on a scooter.
But, if you’re going on a longer road trip to the northern areas of the island, renting a car will be incredibly helpful and add a lot of comfort.
Bali is not very walkable
My top reasons to rent a car in Bali
- You’re going on a multi-day road trip
- You have a lot of luggage
- You value flexibility and privacy
- You are looking for an adventure
- You’re going to more remote areas of Bali
- You don’t want to drive a scooter
Best eSIM & Physical SIM For Bali
Did you know you can get the best SIM card for tourists delivered to your hotel in Bali at no extra charge? Or get an eSIM, so you’ll be connected from day one.
The easiest way to rent a car in Bali
Most major car rental brands, unfortunately, do not operate in Bali, with the exception of AVIS. There are some local companies to choose from, but I’ve found that their prices (including those of AVIS) are a lot higher than the regular price. You can definitely go with a larger company and can have the peace of mind that you’re renting from a reputable brand, but if you want to save money there is another way.
We’ve found that the easiest way to rent a car in Bali is to go with very small, local rentals which offer the best prices and also great service. They will deliver to you and pick up the car again at the end of your trip. You’ll also have them as support should anything go wrong, and I’ve personally only had good experiences. These rentals usually only have a handful of cars and operate on a very small scale as a family business.
This does mean that their cars aren’t the newest sometimes, but considering they charge a fraction of the price, it’s worth it in my experience.
Another great options is to rent a car via Get your Guide, which takes away some of the risk of working with a company you don’t know.
All You Need For Your Bali Trip
Best car rental companies in Bali
Here is a list of the most popular and reputable car rental companies in Bali, which I can personally recommend. You can also rent a car via Get your Guide, which is very easy and convenient.
More reputable, pricey car rental companies in Bali
More affordable, local car rental companies in Bali
- Danu Bali Rental Car – our personal favourite
- Auto Car Rental Bali
- Bali Oto Rent
- Echo Bali Car Rental
- Bali Car Rental Cheap
- Bima Sakti Bali Car Rental
- Drive in Bali
OUR TIP
More reputable brands will have an online booking system, but smaller companies do not. We recommend reaching out via Whatsapp, if possible, to book your car, which might allow for some flexibility with the price and will ensure that you’ve got a personal contact to reach out to if you have any questions.
Car hire at Bali Ngurah Rai Airport
AVIS lets you rent cars directly at the airport in Bali, which can be a great alternative to an airport pickup. Other car rental companies may be able to deliver your car directly to the airport if requested. Just make sure that your hotel or villa provides car parking, which is not common in populated areas like Seminyak, Canggu or Kuta.
Cost of renting a car in Bali
Payments are usually made online via credit card (additional charges may apply), in cash on arrival or via bank transfer.
Expect to pay between IDR 200,000 to IDR 500,000 (~ $20 AUD to $50 AUD) per day for a small car and IDR 400,000 to IDR 800,000 (~ $40 AUD to $80 AUD) for a larger model. AVIS charges around IDR 700,000 (~ $70 AUD) per day for a smaller car and IDR 900,000 (~ $90 AUD) for larger cars. Prices may be discounted if you rent for longer time periods.
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The most comfortable way to get around Bali is with a private driver. Read our complete guide or book instantly at the lowest prices with no need to haggle.
Essential documents while renting a car in Bali
Smaller companies will likely not ask for much if you’re renting a car from them. Similar to hiring a scooter for a few days, you won’t have to worry about a deposit or even showing your driver’s license. They may ask you to leave an ID with them for the duration of the rental period, but that will differ from one company to the next.
However, technically this is a requirement to provide your license, of course, and official brands like AVIS will definitely be different.
Officially, you need your passport, your driver’s license and a valid international driver’s license to rent a car in Bali. In the majority of cases, a copy or picture of the documents is also acceptable.
Insurance policies for rental cars in Bali
Insurance is usually included when renting a car in Bali. More often than not, there is a deductible, though, that you would have to cover should there be damage to the car. This ranges from around $250 AUD to up to $830 AUD or more. Definitely clarify your exact policy with your rental company before you book.
If you want to be sure that nothing will go wrong, it may be advisable to take out an additional insurance policy from a provider in your home country to avoid paying a deductible. Some credit cards also provide coverage for rental cars.
Most cars in Bali have some sort of damage, like scratches or dents from the chaotic traffic. Make sure to take photos of your vehicle before you depart to avoid any confusion later on.
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Inclusions for renting a car in Bali
Each company is different, but in my experience, rentals usually include unlimited miles (only in Bali), some sort of insurance policy, as well as delivery and pick-up of the vehicle. Fuel needs to be refilled to the same level as when you received the car, but the tank does not need to be full.
Always clarify if the rental car is actually self-drive since a driver is commonly included in Bali.
Types of vehicles available for rent in Bali
Cars in Bali are usually very compact city cars with a small trunk, or mid-size family vans that may even fit up to six passengers. Depending on how much luggage you have, a smaller car may be the better choice to make the busy roads easier to navigate. They’re also the cheapest option.
Vans or jeeps are also commonly available for slightly higher prices.
Of course, you can also rent all types of scooters and motorcycles.
Things to remember before renting a car in Bali (our tips)
Here are some must-know tips for renting and driving a car in Bali
- You drive on the left–hand side in Bali. If you’re used to driving on the right, this may take some getting used to.
- Roads in Bali are very narrow and not built for the high volume of visiting tourists. You may be stuck in traffic for a while when getting around the southern parts of the island.
- Cars in Bali aren’t the most modern usually. Lower your expectations and embrace it.
- Always take photos of your car and any damage it may have. Insurance scams in Bali aren’t common but can still happen, so it’s better to be safe.
- Smaller car rentals may not ask for a license when you rent with them. However, if you do not have one and damage the car, your insurance (and the Balinese one) may not pay. This includes health insurance which is critical if you have medical issues after an accident.
- Technically the minimum age for renting a car in Bali is 21, but many smaller companies will rent to people as young as 17. Definitely clarify before you decide and consider if your insurance is valid in that case.
- Drive slowly when the traffic is congested. Scooters will often overtake you in unexpected ways, and it’s easy to be involved in an accident if you go too fast.
- Make sure to have your license with you in case you are stopped by police (unlikely, but it may occur).
- Fuel up at big gas stations, which are much cheaper than small local ones that are designed for scooters.
- Use your horn, especially when overtaking someone, to let them know that you are there.
- Get a smaller car when in doubt. It will make navigating the narrow roads a lot easier.
- Download an offline map on Google Maps to make sure you know where you’re going even without reception.
- Get an AUX cable or a bluetooth/radio converter to play your road trip music, even if you get an older car.
- If you’re on a longer road trip and need a bathroom, you can stop at a minimart, Circle K, Indomaret or similar small convenience store. They almost always have a toilet, and you can get some snacks while you are there.
- Ask your hotel if they have parking space available for cars. Some do not since most tourists arrive by scooter.
- Do not drink and drive. Roads in Indonesia are dangerous as they are, and safety should always be a priority.
- Almost all car rental companies prohibit taking the vehicle to neighbouring islands like Nusa Penida, Java, or Lombok. Do not break this rule, and always follow the regulations.
- Avoid driving in the dark or during heavy rains if possible, especially in remote, mountainous areas which might have dangerous road conditions.
- You may be asked to leave your ID or passport with the rental company for the duration of your trip. This is normal practice and perfectly safe.
Driving on a Bali road trip
Bali is the perfect place for a road trip, and we highly recommend going all around the island to visit some more remote and underrated places. A road trip is perfect if you want to discover places like West Bali National Park, Lovina, Amed, Kintamani, Munduk, or Sideman. We recommend at least a week or so, more if you have the time.
Hiring a driver in Bali
If you’re reading this post, chances are you want to drive around Bali yourself and not hire a driver. However, should you still be on the fence about renting a car, here are some reasons why a driver might be the better option for you.
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Pros of hiring a driver in Bali
Firstly, the driver may also be able to act as a tour guide, adding more value to your trip. You also won’t have to worry about driving, possibly damaging the car, or being involved in an accident. Instead, you can use the travel time to relax and look around as you go. Drivers are usually paid for eight to ten hours, and their rates may not be very different from renting a car for one day.
Fuel and parking are already included in the price, but a tip is, of course, much appreciated. Expect to pay anywhere between IDR 500,000 and IDR 800,000 (~ $50 AUD to $80 AUD) per day for a driver in Bali.
Cons of hiring a driver in Bali
While you can decide the route for the day, most drivers will have some limitations on where they want to go. Multi-day trips are possible with a driver but will cost a lot more and will require you to pay for the driver’s meals and accommodation. Having your own car will be much cheaper and also provide more flexibility and privacy for your group.
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Group tours are an incredibly underrated way to travel and you’ll get to experience Bali with new friends without any of the stress of planning. Compare the best tours here or check out my all-time favourite below.
Renting a car in Bali FAQ
Renting a car in Bali is definitely worth it for longer road trips if you want an added level of comfort and more flexibility.
Renting a car in Bali is safe, just make sure to drive slowly and follow the flow of traffic.
It’s easy to rent a car in Bali, in most cases, you can book online or via Whatsapp and have the car delivered to you.
Car rentals in Bali range from €15 to €40 per day generally.
You can book your vehicle online or via Whatsapp.
21 is technically the minimum age to rent a car in Bali, but some companies may allow younger drivers to rent as well.
You can use reputable companies like AVIS or try smaller local brands like Bali Oto Rent or Danu Bali Rental.
No, it’s not very common for tourists to rent a car in Bali. Hiring a driver is more convenient or driving a scooter is also a popular option.
Ask your accommodation for the number of drivers in Bali, check Trip Advisor or Facebook groups.
Yes, you need a valid license and an international driver’s permit, although some rentals may not ask to see it.
Before you go…
Now that you know everything there is to know about renting a car in Bali, we’re excited to help you plan the next steps of your trip. Did you know that there is a dress code at immigration buildings in Bali? And the real reason why you can’t drink the tap water? We answer these questions and many more in our detailed travel guides.
You might also like our guide to the best group tours, fun birthday activities and the cost for one week in Bali. Looking for a tropical getaway? These beachfront hotels in Uluwatu are the perfect choice.
Did I miss anything?
If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post, please leave a comment below or contact me.
