1. Car Rental Based on Passenger Capacity
You have an abundance of car rental options in Kota Kinabalu, offering everything you need and more! In a nutshell, there's a wide array of choices available for you to rent and drive!
Self-drive car rentals come in various types and passenger capacities. For instance, the standard 1.0 cc Axia starts at RM120/day. And if you book for 3-5 days, you'll usually receive a discount depending on your destination.
Now, let's dive back into the main theme of renting a car based on passenger capacity.
If you're going on a delightful journey with 4 companions, you can opt for compact or sedan cars like the trusty Perodua Axia, stylish Perodua Bezza, classic Proton Saga, elegant Toyota Vios, or sophisticated Honda City. No need to go for an MPV like Proton Exora, Perodua Alza, Toyota Avanza, or others. Why, you ask? Because car rental prices tend to get steeper as you go bigger in size and passenger capacity.
Let's take the fabulous Proton Exora 1.6 cc Turbo as an example. It's priced at RM230 per day. However, if you rent it for 3-5 days, the rental company will likely sweeten the deal with a discount, bringing it down to around RM200/day. Isn't it just so much more delightful and economical to go for a small car than a big one? Absolutely! So, choose wisely and enjoy your exciting ride ahead!
2. Make Early Reservation
Ah, the moment you touch down at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), you'll surely spot those car rental booths right after grabbing your luggage. These companies that set up shop at KKIA are usually the big names like Avis, Europcar, or Hertz. Being international giants, you can expect their rental fees to be a tad higher compared to the local car rental companies in Kota Kinabalu.
You see, the pricey airport rental spaces do influence their rates. Now, here's a nifty tip - seek out car rental companies that don't operate from KKIA. Their offices might be near the airport or around the city of Kota Kinabalu.
And you betcha, these local companies offer more pocket-friendly prices than the big shots! Take a trip to their websites and check out their office addresses. But here's a word of advice - steer clear of dealing with unlicensed individuals who rent out their cars.
You wouldn't want to end up in a sticky situation. Imagine a flat tire, engine trouble, or heaven forbid, an accident - not ideal! Trust us, it's best to avoid those alluring but questionable cheap deals. Stick to licensed and reputable car rental companies for a smoother ride during your vacation or business trip.
There you have it - a fun and understandable take on car rentals in Kota Kinabalu! Happy travels! 😉
3. Make sure your rental car is in tip-top condition when you pick up the keys in Kota Kinabalu.
When renting a car here, delivery is usually free to Kota Kinabalu Airport and nearby hotels. As you grab those car keys, take a moment to ensure the rented car is in good shape and satisfyingly smooth. I mean, give it a thorough check from bumper to bumper!
Check those tires - they should be bouncy and nice. Peek at the service stickers on the windshield to ensure regular check-ups.
And hey, if you spot any dings or scratches on the car's exterior, don't hesitate to let the friendly staff know. You wouldn't want to be blamed for existing scratches, right? Better safe than sorry!
Oh, and don't forget the interior! Make sure it's clean and spotless. A well-serviced and cared-for car means better mileage and smoother rides ahead. Feel free to ask the staff any questions about the rental car. After all, they're here to help you! So, drive away with confidence and have a blast in Kota Kinabalu! 🚗💨
4. Renting accommodations in Kota Kinabalu City.
As mentioned before, delivering rental cars to Kota Kinabalu Airport and the city is FREE! If you rent farther from the city, there might be delivery charges based on the distance from the city area.
For example, hotels near 1Borneo and UMS. Though 1Borneo and UMS are still relatively close to the city, usually there will be delivery charges in these areas due to heavy traffic. The same goes for hotels in Penampang, Inanam, Sepanggar, and Tuaran.
Charges will be higher based on the distance of car delivery. Our tip is to rent accommodations in the Kota Kinabalu City area to avoid delivery charges.
Here's a list of hotels located within Kota Kinabalu City area:
5. Pick up and return the rental car at the same location.
Sometimes, customers rent a car in Kota Kinabalu and return it in Sandakan! This is because their return flight is from Sandakan Airport, not Kota Kinabalu Airport.
WOW! The cost will double...!
The distance between Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu is 206 kilometres by road, which takes about 4 hours from Kota Kinabalu. You will definitely incur extra mileage charges and return fees in Sandakan. The additional mileage charges usually vary depending on the rental company.
It can range from approximately RM200 to RM350 on top of the rental cost. The same applies to the return fees in Sandakan. It all depends on the rental company's policy. This also applies to other cities like Tawau, Lahad Datu, Semporna, if you pick up the car in Kota Kinabalu and return it in another city, you will surely be charged for the extra mileage and return fees.
Our tip: If you plan to explore another city, for example, Tawau, rent the car from Tawau itself, not from Kota Kinabalu. 🚗🌴
H-05-01, Block H, Level 5, Parcel 1, Aeropod Commercial Square, Jalan Aeropod Off Jalan Kepayan, 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
60138018153
