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Top destinations to rent a car in South Korea

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Seoul

Seoul

What you need to know for your South Korea car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in South Korea

Renting a car in South Korea offers the freedom to explore the country's diverse attractions at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those seeking outdoor, family, and adventure-related experiences. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary.

Key destinations, such as Gwangalli Beach in Busan, Myeongdong Street and Lotte World in Seoul, and the scenic sites in Pyeongchang, are easily accessible by car. For instance, you can enjoy the sandy shores of Gwangalli Beach or explore the vibrant atmosphere of Myeongdong Street without the constraints of public transport schedules. Additionally, families can benefit from the added space a rental car provides, making trips to attractions like Lotte World more enjoyable. Whether you're venturing to the cultural sites of Pyeongchang or the bustling streets of Seoul, having your own vehicle allows you to tailor your journey and enjoy all that South Korea has to offer without limitations.

Most popular car rentals in South Korea

  • Economy: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families. The economy option is perfect if you’re looking for a cost-effective choice while exploring South Korea. Its compact size allows for easy navigation in urban areas, ensuring you can reach your destinations without hassle.
  • Midsize SUV: Offering space for 5 travellers and the capability to carry up to 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV is a great option for families, couples, or small groups. This choice provides a comfortable ride with ample luggage space, making it suitable for longer journeys across South Korea. The SUV's versatility allows you to enjoy both city driving and more adventurous routes.
  • Standard: Similar to the midsize SUV, the standard car also accommodates 5 travellers and supports up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly well-suited for couples and families, providing a balance of comfort and spaciousness. Whether you’re planning a road trip or need a reliable vehicle for your stay, the standard car offers a pragmatic solution for your travel needs in South Korea.

Where to stay in South Korea

  • Seoul: A vibrant metropolis, Seoul is an ideal choice for those seeking a family, city-themed, or business experience. Key attractions include the bustling Myeongdong Street, perfect for outdoor holidays, and the impressive Lotte World, a theme park that caters to families. The iconic Lotte World Tower offers stunning views of the city for those interested in a city holiday. With numerous shopping areas, restaurants, and public markets, Seoul provides ample opportunities for dining and exploration.
  • Busan: Known for its beautiful beaches, Busan is a fantastic destination for families and those looking for a city-themed experience. Gwangalli Beach and Haeundae Beach are both renowned for their scenic beauty and are perfect for beach holidays. Nampodong Street offers a lively atmosphere with shopping centres and public markets nearby. The seafood restaurants and drinking pubs in the area provide excellent dining options, making Busan a well-rounded choice for travellers.
  • Pyeongchang: For adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts, Pyeongchang is the ultimate destination. This city is famous for its ski resorts and fields, making it ideal for winter sports activities. The Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm and Daegwallyeong Samyang Ranch offer unique experiences in the national state park surroundings. Visitors can also explore the cultural significance of Woljeongsa Temple, making Pyeongchang a diverse location for those interested in both sports and culture.

10 tips to save on your car rental in South Korea

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily charges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—may be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that the car is returned empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can shield you from unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in South Korea

The best value period to rent a car in South Korea is February, when demand is moderately low and prices tend to be cheaper. January and March also offer decent value with average prices and demand. However, May is typically the busiest and most expensive month for rentals, as demand increases. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand, making them less ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

When you visit South Korea, you want to see every bit of landscape and culture at your fingertips. Yes, there is plenty to do and see in this part of the world, but public transportation can only get you so far. To see some of the most hidden gems, your own set of wheels will come in handy. South Korea car hire makes it possible to see the area on your own schedule with ease. If you hear about a restaurant tucked away at the edge of your favourite neighbourhood, it’s no problem. When you want to see a late night show or early morning sunrise off the beaten path, your car makes that possible too. Cheap car hire in South Korea allows you to set your ideal itinerary without paying a fortune. Book incredible South Korea car rental deals right here on Expedia.com.au today. Whether you want a vehicle outfitted with luxury amenities, or a hybrid car with impressive gas mileage, you can find the perfect set of wheels on Expedia. From compact cars to spacious SUVs, we have loads of options to choose from and booking is just a few clicks away.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my South Korea car reservation?
No problems! If you can cancel your reservation more than six hours prior to pickup, you may qualify for a full refund. It's a good idea to read the cancellation policy as there are some exemptions. Head to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
What types of cars can I rent in South Korea?
Busy city streets and tight parking spots are no hassle for an economy car — the most sought-after rental type in South Korea. Grab the wheel of one of these and get around traffic like a dream. Affordable, reliable and good on gas, these small cars pack plenty of punch. But South Korea can be explored in almost any sort of rental you like. Compact, full-size and premium vehicles are some other options to choose from.
How do I find the best car rental deals in South Korea with Expedia?
Check out reviews and ratings, choose your preferred car type and compare prices from top brands. Expedia makes it a cinch to find the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your South Korea car rental with hotel or flight bookings and drive away with even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in South Korea?
Drivers with a valid licence 21 and above can rent a car in South Korea. While some providers may be willing to rent to drivers younger than 21, you can expect additional fees. Find out what ages the young renter fee applies to, and associated costs, before making your reservation. Outlets also restrict the types of cars young drivers can rent. Higher age limits apply for luxury and specialty vehicles.
What do you need to rent a car in South Korea?
Any rental company you choose will require two things — a valid driver's licence and a credit card in your name. If you decide to opt out of the provider's insurance plan, proof of your own coverage may also be needed. Read your policy thoroughly so you know what to bring with you to the rental counter.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in South Korea?
Expedia makes it easy to score an affordable long-term car rental in South Korea. Simply head to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your information and compare your possibilities.
Where can I find a South Korea car rental if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between rental suppliers, so you'll have to do a little shopping around. Managed to find a South Korea supplier that does rent to drivers under the age of 25? Great! Just bear in mind that a surcharge often applies to drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. The fine print of each rental car you're interested in will have all the details you need.

Car Rental Information

 
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