Making Smart Choices About Road-Tripping Across China

China has become a global superpower. It has also become a popular destination for tourists to visit. Much like in the United States, the culture in both the city and the country areas vary drastically throughout China. Driving conditions and climate also shift noticeably from region to region. People who want to experience as much of China as possible may decide that a road trip, potentially combined with a river cruise or high-speed rail trip, is the best option. Driving across China will be a beautiful and thrilling adventure, but it is one you should plan carefully.

Rent The Right Kind of Car for Your Planned Trip

One of the most important considerations when planning an International road trip is the kind of vehicle that you rent. Most people planning to travel abroad, especially if they hope to visit rural areas, will spend the money to invest in a truck or SUV. Typically, these individuals want the benefit of four-wheel drive and off-road capability.

While that is a good option if you intend to visit the Chinese countryside, if your trip focuses primarily on the incredible cities of China, a large vehicle will be more of a hindrance than a help. Many of the densely populated areas in China’s big cities were developed prior to the rise of the individual automobile in China. They have incredibly narrow roads in some areas and inadequate infrastructure to support massive vehicles. Smaller, compact vehicles, including those that only seat two people, may be a better choice than a large vehicle if you want to see urban China. They’ll also save you money on gas!

You Need a License, As Well As Insurance

Planning a road trip in another country involves choosing destinations, estimating drive times, planning meals, and securing lodgings. It also means handling basic logistics for legally driving in another country. You will need to ensure that you have the ability to legally drive in China as a tourist. They do not accept International Driver’s Permit in China, so you may need to take a local test.

Almost as important will be your motor vehicle insurance policy. Even people who have in-depth insurance coverage back home may not have adequate coverage for rental vehicles. You should check with your insurance company and with the rental company to make sure that there is adequate coverage on your vehicle in the event of an accident or a theft.

Once you handle the logistics, commit to a size of a vehicle, and make plans for licensing, you can start to focus on the more enjoyable and pleasant aspects of road tripping across China. From visiting lesser-known destinations to having full control over your daily schedule, driving through China can be an unforgettable experience.