How to find a cheap car hire deal in Philippines
Cruise into adventure with a cheap rental car in Philippines. With prices starting from RM106 a day, you get freedom without the high price tag. From economy models to full-size family cars, we'll help you pick your kind of ride at your kind of price.
For travel plans that last more than a few days, RM744 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
Explore the range of car rentals in Bacolod. This is where you'll find the cheapest wheels in Philippines.
Overall, the most popular city to rent a car in is Makati.
If you're not sure which company to go with, check out Thrifty. It stands as the number one choice in Philippines.
Step off the plane and into the driver's seat by picking up your ride at the airport. Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport, Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Davao International Airport all provide access to car rentals.
You can rent a set of wheels easily in top cities including Manila, Cebu, Davao, Angeles and Iloilo.
Think about going with a one-way rental. Providers sometimes lower prices on some routes to move vehicles between sites. When searching for a car for rent in Philippines, select 'Return car to a different location' to find those deals.
Planning a multi-week rental? It could be cheaper to book a full month, so try different date combinations to find out what works best.
To avoid extra costs, go for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You drive away with a full tank and bring it back full, so you pay only for the fuel you actually use.
Rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' give you more freedom to explore without added charges. Search for this option using the 'Policies' filter and travel freely.
Best time to book a car hire in Philippines
If you want to time it just right, book about three weeks ahead to score yourself the best price on a car hire in Philippines.
Think about travelling in December to lock in average daily rates of RM114. This is the most affordable month to rent a car.
May is typically the most expensive.
Compare car hire types in Philippines
Economy: If you want affordable and reliable, economy is a solid pick. With lower daily rates and fuel-efficient engines, this option helps keep both upfront and ongoing costs down.
Small: Covering mini and economy classes, small cars are made for everyday travel. If you're looking for a cheap rental car in Philippines, this is where you'll score some of the best deals. They're perfect for city streets and quick getaways, with easy handling, low fuel use, and enough space for the essentials.
Medium: Medium rentals are a comfortable middle ground. Neatly bridging the gap between small and large, they offer extra space and comfort without going all out on size. Compact and intermediate models are included in this lineup.
Large: More people, more bags, more possibilities. 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 comfort is non-negotiable.
SUV: These sport utility vehicles are ready for whatever your plans throw at you. Their capability across mixed terrain makes them a reliable pick for road trip plans that unfold as you go. A higher seating position gives you a clearer view ahead, helping you feel more in control.
Van: This category of car for rent in Philippines includes commercial vans and trucks. With high load capacity and practical interior layouts, they're designed to transport bulky items, equipment or larger groups in one go.
Luxury: Ready to step up to the best? This is more than getting from A to B — it's about showing up in style. Luxury vehicles combine premium design, advanced technology, and effortless performance in one standout package.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your rental car is stolen or damaged. While not mandatory, you'll be glad to have it if something goes wrong. Keep in mind that not all insurance policies are equal, so make sure you understand exactly what's offered.
From navigation systems to reverse cameras, the right extras can seriously level up your drive. Consider which add-ons could enhance your trip when you rent a car in Philippines.
Driving in Philippines: What you need to know
Rental age requirements aren't always the same everywhere. Companies can set their own policies, and if you're a younger driver, you could face extra fees or restrictions. Check the specific rules for each supplier before booking your car hire in Philippines.
Kids coming with you? Car seat regulations vary from one location to another, and the correct setup may depend on their height, age and weight. Confirm whether you need to add one to your car hire reservation in Philippines.
You'll need to show some documents when you get to the rental counter. As a rule, bring your physical driver's licence, a credit card with enough balance for the deposit (most companies don't accept debit cards), and additional photo ID. Your booking will lay out the exact list.
If you're unfamiliar with driving in Philippines, don't forget that traffic here keeps to the right side of the road.
Local speed limits may vary, but it's typically around 30kph in urban areas and 95kph or so on highways. Always obey the posted signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Philippines is 0.05%. Because alcohol doesn't affect all people equally, the only way to be sure you're safe to drive is to avoid drinking.
You'll be using the Philippine Peso (PHP) here. As well as your debit and credit cards, consider having some cash handy for smaller purchases.
