15 Essential Tips Before Renting a Campervan in Bali

Important Things to Check Before Renting a Campervan.

If you’re planning a road trip around Bali with a campervan rental, make sure small overlooked details don’t spoil your adventure. Exploring the outdoors with freedom is always exciting — but without proper preparation, what should have been a dream vacation can quickly turn into an uncomfortable experience.

1. Check the Passenger Capacity of the Campervan

When choosing a campervan, pay attention to the number of “berths” available. This indicates how many people can legally sit and sleep inside the vehicle. For example, a 2-berth campervan is only meant for two passengers. In Indonesia, seatbelt regulations are quite strict, so it’s not allowed to add extra passengers on the floor or on foldable seats in a 2-person campervan.

2. Vehicle Transmission Type

Make sure the campervan’s transmission matches your driving skills. Most campervans use automatic transmission, but some still come in manual. If you’re only comfortable driving automatic cars, avoid renting a manual campervan to prevent trouble on the road. Also, check whether the campervan is equipped with a reverse camera or parking sensors to make maneuvering easier.

3. Valid Driver’s License

If you’re an international traveler, ensure your driver’s license is valid in Indonesia. Some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP), so it’s best to arrange this before arriving to avoid delays when picking up the campervan. For domestic travelers, make sure your Class A license is still valid and won’t expire during your rental period, in case there’s a police check along the way.

4. Age Restrictions for Renters

In general, campervan rental companies in Bali set a minimum age requirement of 21. However, at East Bali Campervan, we accept renters starting from 18 years old with no extra young driver fee. Still, keep in mind that age may affect vehicle insurance requirements.

5. Family-Friendly Campervans

If you’re traveling with kids, make sure the campervan is equipped with child-friendly seating that complies with safety regulations. Many campervans only have seats in the front cabin, which may not be suitable for small children who still need a proper car seat.

Our campervans are designed with foldable rear seats, making it safer and more comfortable for children during the trip. Another important feature to check is whether the campervan has window curtains, which ensure privacy and a better night’s sleep.

6. Campervan Year and Condition

Newer campervans usually look more modern and offer extra features, but they also come at a higher rental price. If you don’t mind using a slightly older model, East Bali Campervan offers affordable options with refreshed interiors that still feel cozy and well-maintained. This way, you can enjoy budget-friendly camping without sacrificing comfort. Be sure to check the air conditioning system as well, especially if you’re traveling during the hotter months.

7. Campervan Size

Before renting, consider the size of the campervan. Are you comfortable driving it? Will it fit your group? Is there enough room for luggage and other essentials?

The size of the vehicle plays a big role in how enjoyable your trip will be. Whenever possible, ask to see the actual unit or request a video walkthrough so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

8. Campervan Facilities and Equipment

Check what facilities are included in the campervan—does it have a fridge, stove, cooking utensils, or even a toilet and shower (usually only available in larger models)?
Don’t forget to look for extra gear such as a folding table, portable lamp, or water tank, especially if you plan to spend time camping outdoors.

9. Toilet and Shower Options

A self-contained campervan comes with its own toilet and wastewater system, which is very convenient if you plan to camp in remote or free camping areas. At the moment, East Bali Campervan units do not yet include portable toilets or showers. As an alternative, guests can use public facilities such as gas stations, minimarkets, or campground amenities for bathing and restroom needs.

10. Power Supply in the Campervan

Most campervans today come with electrical outlets for charging devices such as laptops, cameras, and other gadgets. Premium models may also include solar panels for additional power and backup power stations.
Make sure the campervan’s electrical system suits your needs. Also check whether it has an AC inverter or USB ports for easier charging of your devices.

11. Extra Costs to Watch Out For

A campervan rental that seems cheap at first might not include essentials like bedding, cooking gear, or even the security deposit. Carefully review all additional costs you may need to pay. Don’t forget to ask about late return fees or cleaning charges that may apply.

12. Promotions and Bonuses

Before booking, check the provider’s social media or website—you might find special offers such as rental discounts or bonus perks for booking during certain periods. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental company directly for camping spot recommendations and the best stopovers along your route. They often have valuable local insights and hidden destination tips that can make your trip even more fun and memorable.

13. Campervan Pick-Up and Drop-Off Hours

Make sure the pick-up or return time for your campervan doesn’t clash with the rental company’s operating hours. If your schedule is tight or you’re arriving late at night, ask whether they provide delivery services to the airport or directly to your hotel.

14. Accepted Payment Methods

Many campervan rental providers require a credit card as a security deposit. If you don’t have one, you may need alternatives such as an authorization form or family ID card. It’s also worth checking if they accept payments via bank transfer or digital wallets for more flexibility.

15. Carefully Read the Terms and Conditions

Don’t just click “I agree”! Read the rental contract thoroughly, especially regarding restricted driving areas, insurance coverage, and vehicle return policies. Be sure to ask about cancellation or rescheduling rules so you won’t face unexpected hassles later on.