Where and how to rent a bike in Phuket? A complete guide for travellers

17 March 2025

Renting a motorbike in Phuket is one of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to get around the island. With long beaches, scenic roads, and a lack of public transport, renting a scooter in Phuket is a popular choice for both tourists and expats.

In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Where to rent a motorbike in Phuket
✅ How much it costs
✅ What documents are required
✅ Important tips for a safe rental

1. Why Renting a Motorbike in Phuket is the Best Option

✅ Freedom of movement – Easily reach beaches, viewpoints, and local markets.
✅ Budget-friendly – Renting a scooter is cheaper than taxis or car rentals.
✅ Easy to drive – Scooters are compact and convenient for parking.
✅ Scenic routes – Explore hidden beaches and remote villages.

💡 Tip: If you plan to explore the island extensively, renting a scooter is the best choice.

2. Types of Motorbikes Available for Rent

Phuket offers a variety of rental options:

Type of Bike	Description	Daily Rate	Monthly Rate
125cc (Honda Click, Yamaha Mio)	Most popular option for tourists	$5–$8	$80–$150
150–300cc (Yamaha NMAX, Honda Forza)	More powerful and comfortable	$10–$20	$200–$350
Maxi-Scooter (Yamaha XMAX, Honda ADV 350)	Ideal for long trips	$20–$40	$400+
Motorcycle 500cc+	For experienced riders	$30–$100	$500+
Three-Wheel Bike (Tricity, MP3 Piaggio)	Stable and comfortable for beginners	$20–$50	$400+

💡 Tip: If you're not confident in your riding skills, choose a 125cc scooter – it's the easiest to handle.

3. Where to Rent a Motorbike in Phuket?

🏍️ Best Places for Scooter Rental in Phuket:

Holycowphuket.com – Find both accommodation and trusted rental recommendations.
PHD Rental – A popular scooter rental service in Patong.
Renthub Phuket – A reliable company offering rentals with full insurance.
Local rental shops – Available in all tourist areas.

📍 Popular Areas for Rental:

Patong – Best choice for nightlife and central location.
Kata – Ideal for surfers and family travelers.
Near Phuket Airport – Convenient for immediate pickup upon arrival.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Motorbike in Phuket?

Rental prices depend on the bike model and duration.

Rental Duration	125cc	150–300cc	Maxi-Scooter
Daily	$5–$10	$10–$20	$20–$40
Weekly	$35–$60	$70–$120	$150–$250
Monthly	$80–$150	$200–$350	$400+

💡 Tip: Longer rentals offer better rates. Monthly rentals often come with discounts.

5. Required Documents for Renting a Motorbike

📜 Documents You Need:

Passport copy (never leave your original passport as a deposit).
International Driving Permit (IDP) with Category A (motorbikes).
Deposit – Usually between $100–$500, depending on the bike model.

6. Is Insurance Necessary?

🔹 Full insurance – Covers all damages but is more expensive.
🔹 Basic insurance – Includes limited protection but does not cover damage to your bike.

⚠️ Warning: Most Thai insurance policies do not cover rental scooters.

💡 Tip: Choose rentals that offer insurance to avoid unexpected costs.

7. How to Rent a Motorbike Safely?

✔️ Inspect the bike before signing the contract.
✔️ Take photos of all scratches and damages.
✔️ Check brakes, tires, and lights.
✔️ Ask if a helmet is included in the rental.
✔️ Never leave your passport as a deposit – offer a cash deposit instead.

💡 Tip: When returning the bike, take a video of its condition as proof.

8. Where to Stay When Renting a Motorbike?

If you’re renting a motorbike, choose accommodation in areas with good roads and parking.

🏡 Recommended Areas:

Bang Tao – Easy access to the northern part of the island.
Kata & Karon – Great for beachgoers and scooter rentals.
Patong – Close to nightlife but has heavy traffic.

📍 Where to Find Accommodation?
Check Holycowphuket.com for apartments, villas, and condos in convenient locations for motorbike travelers.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
Can I rent a bike without a license?	Officially, no. Some rentals allow it, but it's risky.
How much does bike rental cost?	From $5 per day or $80 per month.
Where is the best place to rent a bike?	Trusted rentals or recommendations from H olycowphuket.com.
Is a deposit required?	Yes, usually between $100–$500.
What happens if the police stop me without a license?	A fine of about 500 THB ($15) – but it's best to have an IDP.

10. Conclusion

Renting a motorbike in Phuket is the best way to explore the island at your own pace. The key is to choose a reliable rental service, inspect the bike carefully, and follow local traffic laws.

✅ Book your accommodation and motorbike rental in advance at Holycowphuket.com and enjoy your Phuket adventure!