South Korea Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in South Korea

Renting a car in South Korea is a popular choice for tourists, offering the freedom to explore attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and family experiences. You can visit key attractions such as Gwangalli Beach, perfect for beach experiences, or Myeongdong Street, a vibrant area ideal for family outings. For entertainment, Lotte World is a fantastic theme park that caters to visitors of all ages.

The convenience of a rental car also allows you to discover popular destinations like Seoul, where you can enjoy Myeongdong Street and Lotte World. A drive to Pyeongchang lets you explore sites like the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm and Woljeongsa Temple, while a trip to Busan offers beautiful spots like Haeundae Beach and Nampodong Street. With well-maintained roads and ample parking, renting a car in South Korea is a practical way to experience the diverse attractions this country has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in South Korea

• Economy: The Economy car option is a great choice for solo travellers, couples, or small families, accommodating up to 5 passengers and 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle type is not only budget-friendly but also offers the convenience of easy maneuverability, making it an excellent option for navigating South Korean cities and rural areas alike. Its compact size allows for easy parking, ensuring that you can explore attractions without the hassle of finding large parking spaces.
• Compact: Similar to the Economy option, the Compact car accommodates up to 5 travellers but offers a bit more luggage space, allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for those who may want to carry a bit more gear without compromising on fuel efficiency and ease of handling. The Compact car is perfect for couples and families looking to enjoy their journey across South Korea while keeping travel costs manageable.
• Standard: The Standard car option is perfect for couples and families who require a little extra room. With the ability to carry up to 5 passengers and 3 large suitcases, this vehicle type offers ample space for those who need to transport more luggage. The Standard car strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it an excellent choice for longer trips or when travelling with more gear. Enjoy the freedom to explore South Korea with this spacious and versatile option.

Where to stay in South Korea

• Seoul: A vibrant metropolis, Seoul is an ideal destination for family and business-themed experiences. Stay near Myeongdong Street, which is a popular tourist precinct, offering shopping areas and dining options. Lotte World, a fantastic theme park for family holidays, and Lotte World Tower, an impressive skyscraper, are both accessible from central Seoul, making it a perfect base for urban exploration. With its proximity to historic places and parks, Seoul provides a diverse range of activities and attractions suitable for various interests.
• Busan: Known for its beautiful beaches, Busan is perfect for family-themed holidays and city exploration. Consider staying near Gwangalli Beach or Haeundae Beach, both renowned for their scenic views and relaxing atmosphere. Nampodong Street offers a lively shopping experience and is a great spot to enjoy local seafood. The city’s combination of beaches and vibrant markets makes it an attractive option for those looking to enjoy both relaxation and urban life.
• Pyeongchang: Renowned for its winter sports, Pyeongchang is a great choice for those seeking adventure and skiing experiences. Staying near ski resorts provides easy access to ski fields and the stunning national state park. The Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm and Woljeongsa Temple offer unique cultural insights, making this area ideal for a blend of sports and culture. Winter is the best time to visit for ski enthusiasts, while the surrounding natural beauty is a year-round draw.

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 drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal vehicle for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, 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 help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that include unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential to rent 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 prices are slightly low and demand is also moderately low. March and April can also be good choices, as they maintain slightly low prices with average demand. This contrasts with January, which tends to be slightly high in price and features moderately low demand, making it one of the most expensive months for rentals. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.