How to rent a car in Karon, Phuket? Full guide

17 March 2025 ~ min

Karon is one of the most scenic and convenient areas in Phuket, known for its long beach, relaxed atmosphere, and well-developed infrastructure. Renting a car in Karon is the best choice if you want to explore the island freely, visit secluded beaches, attractions, and restaurants without relying on taxis.

In this guide, you’ll learn where to rent a car in Karon, how much it costs, what documents you need, and what to check when choosing a vehicle.

1. Why Rent a Car in Karon?

✅ Freedom of Movement – Easily reach Karon Viewpoint, Big Buddha, Kata, and Nai Harn beaches.
💰 Cost Savings – Renting a car is cheaper than frequent taxi rides.
🏝 Comfort – Essential for families with children, travelers with luggage, or long-term renters.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for Groups – If you travel with friends or family, renting a car is more economical than multiple motorbikes.

💡 Tip: If you plan to explore the island extensively, renting a car in Karon is the perfect solution.

2. Types of Rental Cars Available

Car Type	Description	Price per Day	Price per Month
Economy (Honda Jazz, Toyota Yaris)	Small city cars	$20–$40	$400–$800
Sedan (Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic)	Comfortable for couples and families	$30–$50	$600–$1,000
SUV (Toyota Fortuner, Honda CR-V)	Best for long trips and off-road driving	$50–$80	$1,000–$1,800
Minivan (Toyota Innova, Hyundai H1)	Ideal for large families or groups	$60–$100	$1,200–$2,000
Luxury (BMW, Mercedes, Porsche)	Premium experience	From $150	From $3,000

💡 Tip: If you’re traveling as a couple, an economy car like Honda Jazz is a great choice, while SUVs are ideal for off-road and remote beach visits.

3. Where to Rent a Car in Karon?

🚗 Reliable Car Rental Companies in Karon, Phuket

Holycowphuket.com – Offers trusted recommendations for car rentals.
Eco Car Rent – A local company with good reviews.
Avis, Hertz, Budget – International rental companies available at the airport.
Local rental agencies in Karon – Small offices offering competitive prices.

📍 Best Places to Rent a Car in Karon

Phuket Airport – Convenient if you arrive by plane and want to drive around the island.
Karon Center – Several rental agencies on the main street near hotels and cafés.
Online Booking – The best way to secure a car in advance.

💡 Tip: Book in advance during peak season (November–March) as demand is high.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Karon?

Rental Period	Economy	Sedan	SUV	Minivan
Per Day	$20–$40	$30–$50	$50–$80	$60–$100
Per Week	$150–$250	$200–$350	$400–$600	$500–$800
Per Month	$400–$800	$600–$1,000	$1,000–$1,800	$1,200–$2,000

💡 Tip: The longer the rental period, the lower the daily cost.

5. Required Documents for Car Rental

📜 International Driving Permit (IDP) – Mandatory for driving in Thailand.
📄 Passport – Required for the rental agreement.
💰 Deposit – Usually between $300 and $1,000, depending on the car class.

⚠️ Important: Driving without an IDP can result in a fine of around 500 THB ($15), so get one before traveling.

6. Is Insurance Necessary?

✅ Full Insurance – Covers all damages, including accidents.
✅ Basic Insurance – Limited coverage, often excludes tire and windshield damage.
⚠️ Some rental companies may require extra payment for full insurance.

💡 Tip: Choose full insurance to avoid unexpected costs.

7. What to Check Before Renting a Car?

✔️ Inspect the car and take photos of any scratches or damages.
✔️ Check the fuel level – most rentals require returning the car with a full tank.
✔️ Confirm whether insurance and additional fees are included in the price.
✔️ Ask if driving outside Phuket is allowed (some companies restrict this).

8. Best Accommodation Options for Car Renters

If you plan to rent a car in Karon, choose accommodation with parking facilities.

🏡 Best Areas to Stay:

Karon Beach – Ideal for beach lovers and easy access to main roads.
Kata Beach – Just south of Karon, also a great choice.
Phuket Town – Budget-friendly, perfect for exploring the island.

🔹 Where to Find Accommodation? Check Holycowphuket.com for a selection of apartments, villas, and condos in Karon with parking options.

💡 Tip: Always confirm if parking is available when booking your stay.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
Can I rent a car without a license?	No, an international driving permit (IDP) is required.
How much does car rental cost in Karon?	From $20 per day or $400 per month.
Where is the best place to rent a car?	From reliable rental companies or Holycowphuket.com.
Which car should I choose?	Economy cars for city driving, SUVs for long trips.
What happens if the police stop me without an IDP?	A fine of around 500 THB ($15), but it's best to have an IDP.

10. Conclusion

Renting a car in Karon is a convenient and safe way to explore Phuket. Choose reliable rental companies, get insurance, and book accommodation with parking.

🚗 Book your car and accommodation in advance at Holycowphuket.com and enjoy your trip to Phuket!