Car hire in Phuket: how much does it cost and what do you need?

Driving around the island gives you freedom. When it comes to renting a car in Phuket, it is important to know what documents you need and how much it will cost. Below we have compiled all the important information: requirements, current prices, advantages and tourist reviews.

What you need to rent a car

To rent a car from a regular local rental company, you will need:

• your passport (you do not need to leave it as collateral!) and an international driving permit (IDP) — without these, you may be fined up to 2,000 baht if you are stopped by the police;
• a deposit, which is usually 4,000-5,000 baht;

Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you can immediately figure out how much it will cost you to rent a car in Phuket without intermediaries and unnecessary hassle.

Car rental prices in Phuket

Let’s compare approximate rental rates by category:

Please note that car rental prices in Phuket vary greatly depending on the season, car class, and rental period.

Why rent from Holy Cow Phuket

Holy Cow offers a simple, transparent and convenient way to rent a car in Phuket for long or short periods:

• direct contracts with verified owners without collateral documents;
• car delivery to the airport or hotel on request;
• a variety of models: from compact Nissan Marches to crossovers and 7-seater cars for large groups;
• the entire fleet is serviced and insured, with no mileage restrictions;
• child seats or boosters, roadside assistance and support in Russian are provided free of charge.

Holy Cow is one of the best choices when you need to rent a car in Phuket without any hidden surprises.

Tourist reviews of travelling around Phuket by car

Travellers share similar impressions:

‘Freedom of movement around the island is one of the main advantages, especially when the beaches are far apart.’

‘For a family with a child, renting a car in Phuket is much more convenient and safer than a motorbike.’

‘We rented a car for 10 days. Everything was quick, clear, and the prices were understandable. We got from the airport to the hotel on our own, without a taxi.’

The advantages are obvious: independence from transfers, the opportunity to see remote places, comfort in the heat and travelling light. It is not surprising that car rental in Phuket is consistently one of the most popular requests among tourists.

FAQ

Do you need an international driving licence to rent a car?

Yes. According to Thai law, if you do not have a Thai driving licence, you need an international driving licence (IDP) to rent a car. Without it, you may be fined by the police and have difficulties with insurance payments in the event of an accident.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Phuket per day?

The minimum price is from $10 for an economy class car. On average, it costs $20-50, depending on the model, duration and season.

What is included in the rental price?

The price usually includes class 1 insurance, technical support, the option to install child seats or boosters, unlimited mileage, and the option to deliver the car within Phuket. Delivery costs extra, depending on the delivery location and time of day.

Is it possible to rent a car without a deposit?

It is not possible to rent a car without a deposit, but it is accepted in any currency in cash, as well as, by agreement, in roubles or cryptocurrency.

What type of car should you choose in Phuket?

If you are travelling alone or as a couple, a compact saloon or hatchback will suffice. For a family with a child, it is better to choose a comfortable saloon or crossover.

Do I need to leave my passport when renting?

No. Reputable companies, including Holy Cow, never take passports or other documents as collateral.