A large number of different sized companies operate car rental services in Pakistan. Different options in terms of car sizes, types of vehicles, and self to chauffer driven are offered by different companies.

Things to Consider Before Renting a Vehicle

Considering the number of travel options in Pakistan to include buses, trains, airways, and on call vehicles like Uber, Careem and Airlife, it may not be necessary for every visitor to rent a car. The decision whether you should rent a vehicle or use public transport will depend upon your personal preferences, budget, and areas/locations you propose to visit. Given below are some of the considerations you must pay attention to before renting a vehicle:

Small or Big

Fuel in Pakistan is fairly expensive and can make driving a rented vehicle an unnecessary luxury. Hence, you should rent a car only if you really require one or you have deep pockets filled with money. Also you should weigh the difference in the rent of small sized and luxury cars. While a larger sized vehicle may provide greater comfort and added protection in case of collision, a smaller vehicle can save you lot of money in terms of rental charges, fuel and maintenance costs. If you are travelling with a group you might need a larger sized vehicle to move around as a group.

City Car or 4 Wheel Drive

If you are visiting places within city limits and urban areas, ordinary 2 wheel city cars may be perfect for you to save rental charges and fuel money, get around on congested city roads and ease of Parking in busy parking lots. However, if you are travelling to Northern Areas or on rural roads and tracks, four wheel drive vehicles may be best suited for your situation. Needless to mention that there is huge cost differential in the two categories.

Self-driven or With Driver

You require a valid driving license issued by the competent authority in Pakistan to drive lawfully in Pakistan. If you are a foreigner, you must obtain an International Driving Permit from competent licensing authority in your country before travelling to Pakistan to be able to drive lawfully in Pakistan. If you do not have proper driving document to drive, the best option would be to rent a car with driver. Also driving conditions in Northern Areas of Pakistan are fairly challenging and may need experience in high altitude driving. So if you are not comfortable with driving in mountainous terrain you must rent a car with a driver.

Insurance

Most car rental companies in Pakistan have their vehicles insured for third party loss. In case of loss to rented vehicle, you may be required to pay for part of the damages. Please clarify with your rental company before hand and consider buying collision damage waiver or additional insurance to cover the damages.

Car Rental Companies in Pakistan

We are in the process of compiling a list of car rental companies in Pakistan and will share the details here as soon as read.