Wildest Border Crossing Episode

The convoy sets off from Erenhot, China, fully geared up to finally cross into Mongolia and at first, things seem to go smoothly.
They’re singing their way across the border, literally. But just when they start soaking in the Mongolian vibes… Plot twist!

Turns out, Singaporean and Malaysian cars aren’t exactly “welcome” on Mongolian roads—at least not without the right version of an international driving permit.
And guess what? Mongolia recognizes the Vienna Convention, but Singapore and Malaysia issue the Geneva version.

So what happens?

  • They get in… but need to return to China for incomplete paper work!
  • Drive back to China.
  • Back into Mongolia… again.
  • Blocked at a police checkpoint.
  • End up stranded in the dusty border town of Zamiin Uud.
  • Desperate calls to police chiefs, tourism directors, and possibly the spirit of Genghis Khan.
  • SIM card drama vs. the glorious magic of Airalo’s eSIM.
  • Border-side coffee breaks and instant noodles while waiting on paperwork miracles.
  • Amazing local hospitality, guard dogs, and a surprise fully paid-for hotel room.
  • A Mongolian “mall” straight out of the 1980s Upper Serangoon vibes, anyone?
  • A lovely chat with a local cake-seller who speaks English and is learning Chinese.
  • Tension building as they await a life-saving letter from Mongolia’s tourism board.

And finally… VICTORY!
After 48 hours of drama and near-defeat, they get temporary license plates and the green light to drive across Mongolia. Elvin calls it “like striking TOTO”. Who could disagree with him?

So why should you watch this video?
Because it’s equal parts travel vlog, border comedy, human kindness, and epic perseverance.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to drive your car from Singapore into Mongolia… this is the video.