7 Best Tips for Car Rental in the Philippines

Greetings, fellow wanderlusters, thrill-seekers, and beach bums! Are you planning a fabulous vacation in the beautiful archipelago of the Philippines? Do you want to explore this tropical paradise at your own pace, with the wind in your hair and a playlist that screams “Road Trip Anthems”? Well, hold onto your flip-flops because it’s time to hit the road with confidence.

But wait, before you start dreaming of zooming down palm-lined highways and parking your ride next to crystal-clear waters, there are a few things you should know. Fear not, dear travelers; we’re here to guide you through the treacherous (not really) journey of car rental in the Philippines with a sprinkle of humor and a dash of practical advice.

Friendly tips to find the best car rental in the Philippines on your vacation:

1. Language Barrier: “Is this the right road to paradise?”

Let’s start with the basics. English is widely spoken in the Philippines, but don’t be surprised if you encounter some quirky translations on road signs. “Stop” might become “S-T-O-P-E,” and “One Way” could be “Only One Way!” Embrace the humor and remember, you’re on vacation – getting lost just means more stories to tell.

2. Size Matters: “Compact or Jeepney?”

Choosing the right car size is crucial. If you’re a solo traveler or a couple, a compact car will do just fine. However, if you plan to transport your entire extended family or a herd of inflatable unicorns, you might want to upgrade to a bigger vehicle. Just be prepared for those “How many people can you fit in there?” stares. Contact your chosen agency of car rental in the Philippines to discuss your options.

3. Traffic Adventures: “It’s a Jeepney Race!”

Traffic in the Philippines can be an adventure in itself. Manila is famous for its rush hours that last longer than some Netflix series. But fear not, brave road warriors! You’ll soon discover the true art of weaving through traffic like a local. Just don’t forget to beep your horn as a form of communication – it’s practically a second language here.

4. Parking Predicaments: “Finding Nemo (I Mean, a Parking Spot)”

Finding parking in popular tourist spots can be a bit like hunting for buried treasure. Be prepared to circle the block, ask locals for advice, and perform parallel parking feats that will earn you a standing ovation. If you’re lucky, you might even find a “Pay-Parking” sign that seems like it’s demanding a fee to park there but is just the name of the parking area. Don’t worry; you’re not alone in this confusion.

5. Gasoline Gambles: “To Full Tank or Not to Full Tank?”

When renting a car, you’ll face the eternal question: should you return it with a full tank or not? Opting for the latter can seem tempting, but beware! Some car rental in the Philippines may charge you an arm, a leg, and a snorkel mask to refill it for you. So, avoid the gas station gamble unless you’re feeling exceptionally lucky.

6. Weather Woes: “Sunscreen for the Car?”

The Philippines is a tropical paradise, which means you’ll get your fair share of sun, rain, and everything in between. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself reapplying sunscreen to your car as well. Pro tip: Invest in a good car shade or enjoy your vehicle’s impromptu sauna experience. Although most of the car rental in the Philippines have their vehicles fully tinted but you may find it difficult to drive at night if you picked a dark tinted car.

7. GPS Giggle: “Turn Left at the Sari-Sari Store”

GPS systems in the Philippines can be a bit…creative. You might hear directions like “Turn left at the sari-sari store” or “Drive straight until you see the coconut stand.” Embrace the local flavor and let the adventure unfold, even if it means making a U-turn at the sari-sari store three times.

So, there you have it, intrepid travelers – a lighthearted guide to get you decide to rent a car in the Philippines. Embrace the chaos, the quirks, and the occasional wrong turn. After all, it’s the unexpected detours that often lead to the most memorable adventures. Now, rev up those engines, hit the road with confidence, and let the Philippines work its magic on you! Safe travels and happy honking!