Many travelers don't really need to rent a car in The Bahamas, especially those who are coming for a few days of soaking in the sun at their resort's own beach. In Nassau and Freeport, you can easily rely on public transportation or taxis.

Whether you need a car in Nassau depends largely on where you are staying and what you plan to do. If you are staying at a major resort like Baha Mar or Atlantis, or in the downtown area, you can easily rely on walking, the affordable "jitney" buses, and taxis. The jitneys are small local buses that cost around $1.50 per person and cover most of the popular tourist routes between downtown and the beaches. However, if you want to explore the more remote areas of the island, visit secluded beaches on the western or southern shores, or dine at local spots outside the main tourist zones, a rental car provides significantly more freedom. Taxis can become expensive if used for multiple trips a day, as they do not use meters and rates are set by zone. For a short stay focused on the main attractions, a car is an unnecessary expense and a parking hassle, but for a week-long exploration of New Providence Island's hidden gems, having your own vehicle is a game-changer.