Arriving at Da Nang International Airport and planning to explore Vietnam at your own pace? Renting a car offers fantastic freedom, but it’s good to know what to expect with the pickup process, potential costs, and the local driving conditions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get on the road with confidence.
Rental car desks are generally located within the arrivals area of the airport. You’ll likely find a range of companies offering services at Da Nang International Airport. Common providers include well-known international companies as well as several local Vietnamese options. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Ground Transportation’ after you collect your luggage. Some companies operate a shuttle service to an off-airport facility, so be sure to check the details of your booking.
Da Nang and the surrounding areas offer diverse driving experiences, from city streets to coastal roads and mountain passes. Here are some popular car types you’ll find available:
| Economy | $15 - $25/day |
| Compact | $20 - $30/day |
| Mid-Size | $25 - $40/day |
| SUV (Small) | $40 - $60/day |
| SUV (Large) | $60 - $100/day |
| Luxury | $80+/day |
Prices change by season and availability.
For navigating city traffic, an economy or compact car is often ideal. If you plan on exploring more remote areas or prefer a higher driving position, an SUV is a good choice. For longer journeys and added comfort, consider a mid-size or luxury vehicle.
Generally, you’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended, and sometimes required, especially if your license isn’t in English. The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, but some companies may have a higher age requirement, particularly for certain vehicle classes. Be prepared to present your passport, driver’s license (and IDP if applicable), and a major credit card in the renter’s name. A security deposit will be held on your card to cover potential damages or excess mileage. Payment methods are usually major credit cards; debit cards are often not accepted.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers the vehicle if it’s stolen. Often, these come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for paying in case of damage or theft. You can reduce this excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the daily rental cost. Carefully review the terms and conditions of each insurance option and consider whether your existing travel insurance or credit card benefits provide any coverage. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to explain the details clearly.
Driving in Vietnam can be quite different from what you’re used to. Traffic can be busy, especially in cities. Motorbikes are very common, so be aware of their movements. Toll roads are present on some highways; have some small denomination Vietnamese Dong available for payment. Parking can be challenging to find in urban areas. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in cities and 90 km/h on highways, but these may not always be clearly marked or strictly enforced. It’s best to drive defensively and be prepared for unexpected situations.
An IDP is often recommended, and sometimes required, especially if your driver’s license isn’t in English. Check the specific requirements of the rental company.
Major credit cards are typically required for both rental and the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted.
The deposit covers potential damage to the vehicle, excess mileage, or other charges. It’s held on your credit card and released upon return of the car in good condition.
Collision Damage Waiver covers damage to the rental car itself, but usually has an 'excess' amount you're still responsible for.
Traffic can be busy, especially in the city center. Be prepared for a lot of motorbikes and drive defensively.
Yes, some highways have tolls. It’s helpful to have small denomination Vietnamese Dong available for payment.
Report the damage to the rental company immediately. Your insurance (CDW) may cover some or all of the costs, depending on the terms.
Most companies have desks in the arrivals area, but some may operate a shuttle to an off-airport location.
The minimum age is usually 21, but can be higher depending on the rental company and car class.
Consider your existing coverage (travel insurance, credit card benefits) and the 'excess' amount on the standard insurance. Decide if reducing the excess is worth the extra cost.
Parking can be challenging in the city center. Be prepared to search for available spaces or use paid parking facilities.
In Vietnam, they drive on the right side of the road.