Car Rental Colombo Airport
Major Car Rental Companies
Travelers arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) have access to several reputable car rental agencies, including:
- Sri Lanka Rent A Car: +94 114 941 650 / +94 777 780 729
- Sixt: +94-112870870
- Casons: +94-112-252861
- Europcar: +94 763 780729
These companies offer a variety of vehicles, such as compact cars, SUVs, premium vehicles, and 7-seat minivans. Options for both manual (5 models) and automatic transmissions (24 models) are available.
Book your car in advance to secure better deals and a wider selection of vehicles.
Vehicle Features and Add-ons
Rental cars at BIA come with flexible configurations:
- Doors: Two to five doors.
- Seating Capacity: Four to seven passengers.
- Luggage Space: Up to five medium-sized bags.
Additional equipment can be requested for an enhanced experience:
- Child seats
- GPS devices
- Wi-Fi access
- Extra drivers
Most rentals follow a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning the vehicle must be returned with a full tank. A petrol station is conveniently located about five minutes from the airport.
Opt for GPS or Wi-Fi devices if you plan on exploring remote areas where connectivity may be limited.
Car Rental Locations
Car rental desks are located in the Arrivals Terminal. If you have trouble finding them, airport staff are available to guide you. For travelers seeking off-airport options, there are nine car hire offices within a 50 km radius, including locations in Negombo and Colombo city hotels. Europcar also provides shuttle services for off-airport pick-ups.
Driving in Sri Lanka
Driving in Sri Lanka follows left-hand traffic rules. Renting a car offers flexibility and convenience, especially for travelers planning extended trips or visiting attractions outside Colombo.
Be cautious when driving on rural roads as they can be narrow and crowded with pedestrians or animals.
Payment Options
Most car rental companies accept Visa and MasterCard for payment, ensuring a seamless experience for international travelers.
Returning the Vehicle
When returning your rental car:
- Drive to the same pick-up location to avoid extra fees.
- Ensure the fuel tank is filled if you opted for the full-to-full policy.
- Follow signs for "Car Rental Return" upon arrival at the airport.
- For after-hours returns, drop off the keys and contract at designated drop boxes near the rental desks.
Double-check that you’ve removed all your belongings before handing over the keys.
Why Rent a Car at BIA?
Renting a car is ideal for:
- Avoiding bus schedules and shared rides.
- Families or travelers with heavy luggage who prefer convenience.
- Exploring Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions at your own pace.
Pricing Overview
- Average daily rates range from $34–$76 depending on the vehicle type and company.
- Popular categories include small cars (e.g., Suzuki Swift), SUVs, and premium cars.
- Booking at least five weeks in advance can secure below-average prices.
Compare prices across multiple travel sites like Kayak or Booking.com to find the best deals.