Discover fast, affordable car rental options for the unexpected extended New Year holiday—self‑drive or with driver. Book your ride now!
When the Vietnamese government announced a four‑day continuous break for the 2026 Gregorian New Year, many families scrambled to adjust their travel plans. One of them, 33‑year‑old Phuc Thanh from Ho Chi Minh City, rushed to arrange a vehicle to bring his relatives home for the celebrations.
Why the Holiday Was Extended
The sudden extension of the public holiday left many people in a reactive mode. With schools and offices closed longer than expected, the demand for reliable transportation shot up, especially for families with young children who prefer the comfort of a private car.
Finding a Car Quickly
Despite the rushed timeline, car‑rental platforms reported a surprisingly high inventory of both self‑drive and chauffeured vehicles. This abundance meant that even last‑minute customers could secure a ride without excessive price hikes.
Self‑Drive vs. Chauffeur Options
Phuc Thanh explained his preference for a self‑drive car to retain flexibility, but he was ready to book a driver‑provided vehicle if necessary. In a parallel interview, professional driver Tran Thanh noted that most customers this year only booked single‑day trips, leaving many drivers with open schedules on January 1st.
Vehicle Choices and Price Ranges
- Sedans and SUVs: Models such as the MG ZS 2024 Luxury cost around VND 3.6 million for a three‑day rental starting on the evening of December 31.
- Mid‑size MPVs: Kia Carnival, Hyundai Stargazer, and Toyota Veloz Cross are popular for larger families, with three‑day rates ranging from VND 4 million to VND 7.5 million depending on trim and year.
- Electric Vehicles: VinFast VF 7 Plus (2024) commands roughly VND 5.6 million for the same period, while Omoda C5 Luxury starts at VND 3.7 million.
Cost Considerations
Self‑drive rentals do not include fuel or toll fees, which travelers must budget separately. For electric cars, VinFast offers free charging at public V‑GREEN stations, but third‑party platforms may still levy a mileage‑based fee.
When you opt for a chauffeured service, the rental price typically covers fuel, leaving only tolls and possible parking fees as additional expenses.
Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience
- Book as early as possible, even if your travel dates are tentative.
- Compare prices across multiple platforms to spot the best deals.
- Check the vehicle’s insurance coverage and driver‑age restrictions.
- If you’re traveling with children, verify that the car has appropriate safety seats.
- For electric cars, confirm the availability of free‑charging stations along your route.
With a wide selection of cars available and clear pricing, securing a vehicle for the extended New Year holiday in Vietnam is straightforward—whether you prefer the independence of a self‑drive or the convenience of a professional driver.