Hong Kong International Airport (IATA: HKG) is an airport located on Lantau Island that can be considered one of the busiest airports in Asia, processing more than 70 million passengers yearly. Whatever the reason for your arrival in Hong Kong – whether a crucial business meeting, a holiday with your family members, or even a transit, you will have the advantage of choosing the freedom of renting a car from HKG. Save yourself the trouble of long taxi lines or even crowded shuttle buses by enjoying every minute in one of the most exciting destinations in the world. Regardless of your destination point, whether it is the impressive buildings of Central or the scenic paths of Sai Kung, the whole process will be much easier.
Why Rent a Car from HKG Airport?
When arriving at a new place, the stress of getting around is always high. But renting a car on arrival can change everything. The services offered by HKG car rentals include:
- Ease and convenience: Get a ride right away from the airport upon landing and drop the vehicle off once your journey is complete without worrying about transportation.
- Comfort and freedom: Explore off-the-beaten-path places in Hong Kong, visit the New Territories, or enjoy a day at Stanley and Sai Kung on your own schedule, without relying on public transport.
- Economical for groups: If traveling with a group or family of at least three members, it could cost less to rent a car compared to taking taxis or private transfers.
- Suitable for business: Business travelers can travel conveniently between Kowloon, Central, and Science Park without worrying about transportation costs.
Car Rental Companies at HKG Airport
There are several well-known and locally based car rental companies available at Hong Kong International Airport, and here is a list of some of the best that provide services in all classes from budget to premium:
- Avis: Provides reliable service along with a vast number of vehicles for all sorts of travelers.
- Hertz: Well-known car rental company provides all types of cars ranging from economy hatchbacks to executive sedans.
- Budget: A good option for cost-effective people who do not want to make any compromises on the quality.
- Sixt: Offers a large variety of luxurious cars and sports cars, making it a favorite among premium travelers.
- National / Europcar: Good choices for long-term and corporate rentals.
Most counters can be found at Terminal 1, Arrivals Hall, just outside of the Customs area. Pre-booking is highly recommended for travel during peak periods such as Chinese New Year, Golden Week, and other international events.
Car Types on Offer
No matter what your purpose for traveling, there will be the right car for you in HKG:
- Economy and Compact Cars – Excellent for individuals or pairs traveling in the city environment
- Saloon and Sedan Cars – The choice for businesspeople who need a comfortable and professional ride
- SUVs and Crossovers – The best option for families or people traveling in the mountainous regions of the New Territories
- Minivans and People-Carriers – Good for groups of people or when you have a lot of luggage
- Premium and Luxury Cars – For making an impact or enjoying superior comfort throughout the trip
Driving in Hong Kong – Important Information
Hong Kong is one of the few places outside the UK that uses left-side driving. The roads in general are of good quality and well-signposted in both English and Chinese, and there is an extensive network of highways connecting the airport and other urban centers via the Airport Express Road and Route 3. Basic rules of driving in Hong Kong:
- International Driving License: Citizens from many countries will have the right to drive in Hong Kong with their foreign driver’s licenses for one year after arrival. It is recommended to take an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) along with your license.
- Tunnels: There are tunnels with toll payments, like the Cross-Harbour Tunnel and Western Harbour Crossing. Make sure that you will have either an Octopus card or cash.
- Parking: Parking in Kowloon and Hong Kong Island is rather expensive and scarce. Multistorey parking lots are located in business districts.
How to Get the Most Competitive Car Rental Offer at HKG?
- Book in Advance: There are usually savings of about 20% – 40% when booking in advance compared to on-the-spot booking from the airport.
- Compare offers: Compare offers both on aggregators and on the websites of car rental companies.
- Understand insurance covers: Be clear about the covers included in the rental, like collision damage waiver (CDW), theft cover, and liability.
- Consider bundles: Some car rental agencies will give discounts on car rentals when you combine them with a hotel stay.
- Inspection at pickup point: It is always wise to check the condition of the car at the time of picking it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, same-day rentals are possible in HKG, although availability cannot be guaranteed, especially during holidays and high travel seasons. Online booking guarantees you the car class that you want at better prices. You can also cancel free of charge within 24 to 48 hours of booking.
In addition to a valid driver’s license from your own country and a passport or other national identity document, you will require a credit card in the name of the main driver and an International Driving License if your driving license is not in English or the Chinese language. Always make sure to check the required documents before you go.
Most car rental companies at HKG will require you to be at least 21 years old to rent a car from them. Drivers who are under 25 years of age will be charged an additional fee. Some premium cars may require you to be a minimum age of 25.
One-way rentals in Hong Kong are common; however, cross-border rentals into Mainland China can have restrictions and may need special licenses. In case you wish to rent your car and take it through the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, you should contact your provider prior to renting to check cross-border availability.
Most of the providers that offer their services at HKG use a full-to-full fuel policy. This means that upon pickup, you will get a full tank of fuel, and at the end of your rental period should return your car in the same condition, with a full tank of fuel. Some providers can give you an opportunity to purchase fuel prior to your trip; however, this is usually not a good choice financially.