Bike rental in Phuket in 2025: how much does it cost, what are the pitfalls, and is a car a viable alternative

Phuket has long established itself as a paradise for travellers: picturesque beaches, warm sea, excellent cuisine and affordable transport. One of the most popular ways to get around the island is still renting a motorbike. It is compact, manoeuvrable and relatively inexpensive. However, in 2025, renting a motorbike in Phuket has its own peculiarities and nuances that are important to know in order to avoid overpaying and getting into an unpleasant situation. In this article, we will look at real prices, hidden fees, tips, and alternatives.

How much does it cost to rent a motorbike in Phuket in 2025?

The cost of renting a scooter in Phuket depends on several factors: the model and engine size, the season, the rental period, and the greed of the rental company. On average, the prices on the island are as follows:

• Budget models 110-125 cm³ (e.g. Honda Click) – from 150 to 250 baht/day;
• Mid-range 150–160 cm³ (Honda PCX, Yamaha NMAX) – 300–500 baht/day;
• Maxi scooters 300+ cm³ (Honda Forza, Yamaha XMAX) – 1000–1800 baht/day.
• Motorcycles 500+ cm³ (Honda CB500X, Honda NX500, Kawasaki Z900, Ducati Streetfighter V2) – around 2000 baht/day.

If you rent a bike for a month, you can negotiate a price of 3,000 to 6,000 baht for a simple model. It all depends on the season: in the winter high season, rentals are more expensive and many rental companies refuse to rent on a monthly basis, preferring to rent on a daily basis. In summer, on the contrary, you can get good discounts.

The price is also affected by the novelty of the bike: only new models that have just arrived at the rental company can be rented at inflated rates. For example, a 2025 Honda ADV-350 rents for 800 baht per day — twice as much as a regular Honda Click.

Additional costs and hidden fees

The rental fee is only the visible part of the cost. The following are often added:

1. Deposit: most rental companies require you to leave your passport or a cash deposit (usually 1,000–3,000 baht). Experienced tourists recommend not leaving your original passport, but offering a cash deposit instead. This eliminates the risk of blackmail for ‘scratches’ that allegedly appeared afterwards.
2. Petrol: scooters are issued with an empty tank — you will have to refuel yourself. The price of fuel in 2025 is about 40 baht per litre.
3. Penalty for returning without fuel: if you return the bike with an empty tank, you may be charged an inflated rate.
4. Helmets: usually 1-2 are included free of charge, but their condition is far from ideal. It is recommended to buy your own helmet (~500-800 baht), especially if you plan to use it for a long time.
5. Insurance: most rental companies do not offer full insurance. Official insurance costs about 200 baht per day — almost as much as the rental cost. Some companies offer internal ‘insurance’ (in fact, a non-refundable surcharge) for 100 baht/day, covering damage to the bodywork. It is up to you to decide whether you need it, especially if you are a beginner.

How not to fall victim to rental scams

Unfortunately, there are some unscrupulous rental companies in the Phuket bike rental industry. To avoid trouble:

• Inspect the bike before renting it. Record all scratches and damage in photos and videos.
• Take a photo of the rental company against the backdrop of the bike — this reduces the risk of disputes when returning it.
• Sign the rental agreement, even if it is in English or Thai. Ask for a translation if necessary.
• Do not leave your passport if you can avoid it.
• Clarify who pays the fines: in 99% of cases, it is the renter.
• Keep the deposit receipt — this is your guarantee of a refund.

If, when returning the bike, you are asked to pay for a ‘new’ scratch that you recorded in advance, show them the photo. If they still insist, suggest going to the police. In most cases, rental companies back down in such situations.

When renting a bike is not a good idea

Although bikes are a popular choice, they are not always convenient. Keep the following in mind:

• Weather: during the rainy season (May–October), travelling by bike is uncomfortable and unsafe.
• Long trips: it is not always convenient to ride a bike on the island’s hilly terrain, especially with a passenger.
• Families with children or large groups — a bike is not suitable in terms of capacity and comfort.
• Without experience riding a two-wheeled vehicle and without an international driving licence — there is a risk of being fined, getting into an accident and being left without insurance.

Alternative: is renting a car safer and more cost-effective?

If you plan to actively explore the island, travel in comfort, go to the supermarket or the beach in rainy weather, a car may be a more reasonable alternative. Yes, car rental is more expensive (from 1,000 to 1,500 baht/day), but:

• you are protected from rain and sun;
• you can easily transport luggage and passengers;
• the likelihood of getting into an accident is lower than on a motorbike;
• it is more comfortable for families, especially with children;
• you have full insurance (usually included).

Choosing a car is especially sensible if you rent it for several days — this reduces the daily cost and increases comfort. Don’t forget about safety: according to statistics, motorbikes are the most accident-prone form of transport in Phuket.

Recommendations for choosing a bike

It is better to choose a model that is no more than 3 years old, with minimal damage.
Check the brakes, turn signals, lights, tyres and horn before riding.
If the bike pulls to one side, squeaks or jerks, ask for a replacement.
The best models for beginners are the Honda Click, Honda Scoopy, and Yamaha Mio.
For two people or long trips, it is better to choose a Honda PCX or Yamaha NMAX.

FAQ

1. Can I rent a bike without a licence?
   Formally, no. To ride a bike in Thailand, you need an international driving licence with category A. In practice, many tourists ride without one, but this carries the risk of a fine (500-1000 baht) and refusal of insurance in the event of an accident.
2. What is the average price for a bike in 2025?
   For 125cc bikes, it is about 150-250 baht per day, and for 150-160cc bikes, it is 300-500 baht per day. Maxi scooters start at 1000 baht and up.
3. Is a deposit required?
   Almost always. Options: passport (not recommended) or cash deposit (1,000–3,000 baht).
4. Is there insurance?
   No one offers official insurance (too expensive). Sometimes they offer internal ‘insurance’ against damage (~100 baht/day), but this is not an insurance policy, just protection against disputes.
5. How much does it cost to rent a car for comparison?
   From 1,000 to 1,500 baht/day. The price usually includes basic insurance and the opportunity to travel around the island in comfort.