Exploring China’s vast landscapes and vibrant cities by car offers unmatched freedom, but navigating the rental process requires local know-how. From validating your driving licence to choosing the right platform, this guide breaks down everything you need for a smooth experience. Learn how Chinese rental costs compare, why Trip.com stands out for bookings, and what to expect during pick-up and return procedures. Whether you’re tackling Beijing’s ring roads or coastal drives near Sanya, we’ll help you secure the ideal vehicle while avoiding common pitfalls. Buckle up – your road trip adventure starts here.
Driving Licence Compatibility
Let’s cut through the confusion first: your UK driving licence alone won’t work here. China doesn’t recognise International Driving Permits, but don’t panic—I’ve got you covered. For short trips (under 90 days), get an official Chinese translation of your UK licence through agencies like the China Tourism Academy. If you’re staying longer, you’ll need to swap your UK licence for a Chinese one—a process that involves a written test (in English, thankfully) and a health check. If possible, it’s best to start this before you travel, as some rural car rental offices get twitchy about translation documents.
How Much to Rent a Car in China
| Category | Daily Cost (Approx.) | Notes |
Economy Car | £20 – £40 (¥200 – ¥400) | Compact models (e.g., VW Polo, Toyota Yaris) |
Mid-size Sedan/SUV | £30 – £60 (¥300 – ¥600) | Comfort for families (e.g., Honda Accord) |
Luxury/Premium Car | £50 – £80+ (¥500 – ¥800+) | Brands like Audi, BMW, or Mercedes |
Insurance (Full Cover) | £5 – £15/day | Optional; reduces liability for damages |
Deposit | £200 – £800 (refundable) | Held on credit card until return |
Additional Fees | Young driver fee (£8–£16/day if under 25), one-way drop-off fee (£40–£120) |
*Based on 2025 info. Check the latest updates before you travel.
Car Rental Platform Comparison
Now, where to actually get wheels. International brands like Hertz exist, but their prices made my eyes water – we’re talking 50% more than local companies. After trial-and-error, here’s my cheat sheet:
Platform | Best For | Price Range (Daily) | Foreigner-Friendly? | Payment Methods | Key Perks |
Trip.com | First-time visitors | £25-£80 | ★★★★★ | Visa/Mastercard | English app, 24/7 helpline |
CAR Inc | Wide coverage | £20-£150 | ★★☆☆☆ | Alipay/WeChat Pay | 300+ cities, free child seats |
eHi Car Rental | Budget travellers | £15-£60 | ★★★☆☆ | Chinese bank cards | EV options, night pickup discount |
Hertz China | Brand loyalty | £40-£200 | ★★★★☆ | Int'l credit cards | Airport counters, GPS included |
Zuche | Long-term rentals | £12-£40 | ★☆☆☆☆ | Cash deposit required | 7-day+ deals, basic models |
Notes:
- Based on 2025 info. Check the latest updates before you travel.
- ★ = Mandarin-only support | ★★★★★ = Full English service
- Prices vary by season (Oct holidays/Spring Festival = 2-3x higher)
- All require: Passport + Chinese driving permit/translation
How to Book a Car Hire on Trip.com
1️⃣ Search Options: Visit Trip.com’s car hire page. Select pickup location (e.g. Macau International Airport), dates, driver’s age, and click “Search”.
2️⃣ Filter & Select: Browse available vehicles. Refine results by passenger capacity, rental company, price, or payment method. Click “Book” on your preferred option.
3️⃣ Review Details: Check the vehicle description, pickup location, and price breakdown. Confirm accuracy before proceeding.
4️⃣ Add Extras: Opt for additional insurance, child seats, or GPS devices if required.
5️⃣ Driver Information: Enter driver details. Use an active email address to receive booking confirmations.
6️⃣ Apply Discounts & Pay: Input promo codes (if applicable), select payment method, and click “Book Now”.
7️⃣ Confirmation: A booking summary will appear post-payment. A voucher will also be sent to your email. ✅
Trip.com Car Hire Pick-Up Process
Documentation: Present your booking voucher, driving licence, and credit card at the rental desk.
Vehicle Inspection: Check the car’s condition: engine, lights, fuel gauge (ensure full tank), indicators, wipers, tyres, and exterior for scratches. Report any issues to staff immediately.
Fuel Type: Confirm the vehicle’s required fuel type to avoid errors.
Contract Review: Read all terms carefully before signing. Collect your copy of the contract, invoice, and keys.
Trip.com Car Hire Return Process
Return Location: Park the vehicle at the agreed drop-off point. Note the mileage and inspect for damage.
Self-Service Returns: If unattended, take photos/video of the car’s condition and return time for dispute resolution.
Pre-Return Checklist:
Punctuality: Avoid late fees by returning on time.
Refuelling: Refill the tank to the agreed level.
Cleanliness: Ensure the vehicle is tidy and undamaged (inside and out).