How to choose a reliable bike in Phuket: tips for beginners

Phuket is an island where freedom of movement directly affects your holiday experience. You want to visit the beaches, the old town, Thai cafés and viewing platforms. That’s why most tourists consider renting a motorbike — after all, it’s cheap and, at first glance, a convenient way to get around. But how do you choose a reliable scooter and avoid getting into trouble? Let’s take a detailed look at what beginners should pay attention to.

💡 Tip: although bikes are a popular form of transport in Phuket, for comfortable and safe trips around the island, especially with children, luggage or over long distances, it is more convenient to travel by car. You can rent a car in advance from reputable sites so that you don’t have to depend on the weather and road risks.

Where to rent a bike in Phuket and how not to make a mistake

On the island, you can find a ‘Motorbike for rent’ sign on literally every corner, but not all rental companies are equally reliable. Some operate on the principle of ‘the tourist leaves, the money stays.’ Therefore, the first rule is to choose trusted rental companies.

If you are visiting the island for the first time, it is most convenient to start your search through reliable platforms, such as HolyCowPhuket, which offers a selection of verified accommodation and transport rental options. Here you can find accommodation and check where the most reputable rental companies with good reviews are located nearby.

Signs of a reliable rental company:

• they do not require the original foreign passport (a copy and a cash deposit are sufficient);
• they issue a rental agreement — usually in English and Thai;
• they allow you to inspect the bike without hiding any damage;
• they are comfortable with you taking photos of the bike’s condition;
• has a website or positive reviews on blogs and forums.

If you book accommodation through a hotel or apartment, check whether it cooperates with a reliable rental company. Hotels often offer bikes from reputable partners — the conditions are more transparent, the equipment is well maintained, and they provide prompt assistance in case of breakdowns.

Don’t hesitate to compare several places. If one requires a passport and a large deposit, while another is satisfied with a copy of the document and a deposit of 3,000–5,000 baht, it is wiser to choose the second option.

How to inspect a bike before renting

Even if the equipment looks new, take a few minutes to inspect it — this will save you from disputes when returning it.

Check:

• Tyres — not bald, with normal tread.
• Brakes — work without squeaking, with smooth response.
• Headlights, turn signals, horn — everything should be working.
• Mirrors — intact and securely fastened.
• Bodywork and plastic — it is best to photograph any scratches, cracks, and chips in the presence of the owner.

Ask the owner to sign a handover certificate or make a note of any damage in the contract. Reputable rental companies will do this without any problems.

If you notice oil leaks, squeaky brakes, worn tyres or steering problems, refuse the vehicle and ask for another option. A good rental company will not insist.

Documents and contract: what to look out for

Reliable rental companies always have a rental agreement that specifies:

• your details and the lessor’s details;
• the model, registration number and rental period of the bike;
• the deposit amount and conditions for its return;
• contact details and instructions in case of breakdown or accident.

Before signing, check that all damage is listed. This will help avoid misunderstandings when returning the bike.

What about insurance

Most bikes only have compulsory insurance, similar to motor vehicle insurance, which covers damage to third parties. Additional insurance against damage to the bike is rare and costs around 200 baht per day, but sometimes a paid ‘guarantee’ is offered — check what exactly it covers and whether it is worth taking.

Important: licence and helmet

You need an international category A licence to rent a motorbike. If the rental company says that ‘the police don’t catch you without a licence,’ that’s a bad sign. The Phuket police regularly conduct raids, and the fine for not having a licence is between 500 and 1,000 baht. A helmet is always mandatory.

Why you shouldn’t leave your passport as collateral

Many beginners make the mistake of handing over their original passport to the rental company. This should not be done.

It is better to offer a cash deposit — usually 3,000–5,000 baht, depending on the model. This is normal practice. Explain that under Thai law, tourists are required to carry their passport with them.

Sometimes you can leave your internal passport if the rental company agrees and you have a copy of your foreign passport. However, you should not leave copies of bank cards or other personal documents — there have been cases of fraud.

A good rental company will take your caution in stride: a tourist with a deposit and a contract is not going anywhere.

Equipment and safety

Even if local bikers wear their helmets on their elbows, tourists are better off not taking any chances. Thai roads can be slippery after rain, and traffic is dense and chaotic.

Minimum safety requirements:

• A helmet that fits. If you are given a worn one, it is better to buy a new one — at Big C or Lotus, it costs 500–800 baht.
• Closed shoes and trousers. Even light trainers and jeans will protect you from scratches if you fall.
• Gloves and goggles. They help in hot weather and wind.

Traffic rules:

• Left-hand traffic.
• Speed limit — 40–50 km/h in built-up areas.
• Indicators and brake lights must work.
• Fines for violations range from 200 to 1,000 baht, payable on the spot or at the police station.

If you are unsure of yourself, start with short trips around a familiar area.

How to return a bike

It is best to return the bike during the day, in good lighting conditions. This will allow both parties to inspect the bike calmly.

Before returning the bike:

• wash the bike (if it is very dusty);
• refuel the tank to its original level;
• show that everything is working.

If there is minor damage, be honest about it. Repairs are usually inexpensive:

• a mirror costs about 200 baht,
• a plastic panel costs the price of the part plus labour (on average 300-800 baht).

Some rental companies have a price list for replacement parts — don’t hesitate to ask in advance how much a lost helmet or key will cost.

Never abandon the bike, even if you are leaving early: the owner may report it missing to the police, and the situation will turn into trouble. It is better to call and formally return the bike.

When is it better to choose a car

Although motorbikes are a popular choice in Phuket, they are not suitable for everyone. If you are travelling as a couple, with your family, or plan to make frequent trips with luggage, renting a car will be more practical.

A car will protect you from rain, sun and sand, allowing you to move comfortably between beaches, supermarkets and attractions. Plus, you can drive safely in the evening or on roads deeper into the island.

You can also find a suitable car on HolyCowPhuket, a platform that brings together verified car and accommodation rental offers with no hidden fees.

Conclusion

Renting a motorbike in Phuket is convenient and cost-effective if you approach the process wisely. Check the condition of the vehicle, sign a contract, do not hand over your passport, and always wear a helmet. Then your trips will be nothing but enjoyable.

And if you want to travel in maximum comfort, consider renting a car: it will give you more freedom, comfort, and confidence on the road.

FAQ

1. How much does it cost to rent a motorbike in Phuket in 2025?
   The average price for renting a basic bike (125 cc, Honda Click) is 150–250 THB per day, while more powerful models (Honda PCX, Yamaha NMAX) cost 300–500 THB per day.
2. Can you rent a bike without a license?
   Formally — no. To ride in Thailand, you need an International Driving Permit with category A. Without it, you may be fined 500–1000 THB.
3. Is a deposit or passport required?
   You should not leave your passport. Usually, a copy of your document and a 3000–5000 THB deposit is enough.
4. Do bikes come with insurance?
   Most have only the mandatory basic insurance (OSAGO). It covers damage to third parties but not repairs to the bike itself.
5. Where is it safer to rent a vehicle?
   At trusted platforms like HolyCowPhuket, where you can find reliable rental offers for housing and transport without intermediaries.