What to check when picking up a car in Phuket: renter’s checklist (2025)

Renting a car in Phuket is a great way to explore the island and its surroundings. However, to avoid unpleasant surprises and additional costs, it is important to carefully inspect the car before setting off. In this article, we have prepared a checklist for renters in 2025 to help you avoid rental problems and ensure that all rental conditions are met.

External inspection and damage assessment

The first thing you need to do is conduct a thorough inspection of the car. This is an important step that will help you avoid situations where they try to blame you for damage that you did not cause. Car rental companies in Phuket usually record even the smallest defects themselves, such as scratches on the bottom of the bumper or cracks on the wheels.

What to do:

• Walk around the car and carefully inspect it from all sides.
• Pay attention to all scratches, dents and chips.
• Make sure that every defect is recorded in the acceptance report or on the car diagram in the contract.

Tip: Take photos of the car, wheels, roof and any damage. This will be your additional evidence in case of any disputes.

Fuel and fluid levels

Before you leave, it is important to ask the rental company about their fuel policy. Usually, the car is provided with a full tank, and you are required to return it with the same fuel level. However, in some cases, there may be other conditions, so it is better to clarify this in advance.

What to check:

• Make sure that the contract specifies the fuel level when you picked up the car.
• If the tank is not full, record the fuel level in the contract or take a photo of the dashboard.
• Check that there is a spare tyre and jack in the boot.

Tip: If possible, check the oil and coolant levels, especially if you are planning long trips.

Car documents and insurance

Before renting a car, make sure you have all the necessary documents. In Phuket, you must always have the originals or copies of your insurance policy and registration certificate (Blue Book). These are mandatory documents that must be in the car.

What to do:

• Check that you have insurance and registration documents.
• Ensure that the insurance is valid for the entire rental period. Some companies may ‘forget’ to renew the policy, and you don’t want to find yourself in an unpleasant situation on the road.

Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to show you the insurance policy and make sure everything is in order.

Terms of use (where you can go)

It is important to discuss in advance where you are allowed to drive the rental car. Some local rental companies restrict the territory and prohibit driving outside Phuket without prior agreement or additional payment.

What you need to clarify:

• Find out if there are any restrictions on where you can go. For example, it is often the case that travelling to the mainland (to Krabi or Phang Nga) requires an additional fee or permission.
• If you plan to travel outside the island, make sure that this is permitted and specified in the contract.

Tip: In 2025, there were cases where tourists were fined for leaving Phuket without notifying the rental company — it is better to clarify all the details in advance. Most rental cars are equipped with GPS tags.

Deposit and payment

Before leaving, be sure to clarify all the terms and conditions related to the deposit and payment. This will help you avoid unpleasant situations where the deposit is blocked on your card or hidden fees are charged.

What to do:

• Make sure you understand the amount of the deposit and the conditions under which it will be refunded.
• If the deposit is left in cash, take a receipt.
• If the deposit is blocked on your card, clarify the period for its unblocking (usually it takes 2-4 weeks).

Tip: Check that all the options you have paid for (additional driver, child seat, etc.) are included in the contract.

Equipment and functioning

There are many roads in Phuket, including mountainous areas, so it is important to ensure that all vehicle systems are functioning properly. Check the main functional components and ensure that the vehicle is ready for use.

What to check:

• Inspect the lighting equipment (headlights, turn signals, brake lights) and make sure everything is working.
• Check that the air conditioning and windscreen wipers are working.
• Inspect the tyres to make sure they are not bald.
• Pay attention to the indicators on the dashboard — for example, check for any warning lights such as Check Engine.
• Check the parking brake, especially if you plan to drive in mountainous terrain.

Tip: If something is not working or seems suspicious, report it to the rental company immediately. They may offer you another car.

Contacts and support

Before setting off on your journey, it is important to obtain the contact details of the rental company’s support service in case of unforeseen situations. Especially if you do not speak the local language, having Russian-speaking support will be a big plus.

What to do:

• Get the phone number of a representative of the rental company.
• Find out who will be responsible for technical support in case of a breakdown or accident.

Tip: Make sure you have a way to contact the company, for example, via WhatsApp or other messengers.

Why renting a car is the best way to get around Phuket

Getting around Phuket by car is a convenient and economical way to explore the island. It gives you complete freedom of movement, independent of public transport schedules. In addition, renting a car allows you to easily reach remote places, such as beaches in the south of the island or temples in the mountains, without wasting time waiting for transport.

Renting a car in Phuket guarantees comfort, flexibility and freedom, especially if you want to visit several attractions in one day. With Holy Cow Phuket, you can choose the right car for any purpose, whether it’s a beach holiday, temple tours or trips around the island.

FAQ

What documents are required to rent a car in Phuket?
To rent a car, you will need a driving licence, passport and, in some cases, a credit card.

What deposit is required to rent a car in Phuket?
The deposit is usually between 5,000 and 10,000 baht and is blocked on your card. In some cases, the deposit can be left in cash, and you will be given a receipt.

Is it possible to rent a car without a credit card?
Yes, through Holy Cow Phuket, it is possible to rent a car without using a credit card. You can also choose to rent without a deposit.

What should I do if I find damage to the car after receiving it?
If you notice any damage, report it to the rental company immediately and make sure it is recorded in the contract or on the car diagram.

Can I drive outside Phuket with a rental car?
Some rental companies restrict driving outside the island, and in such cases, you will need to obtain permission or pay an additional fee. Make sure this is specified in the rental agreement.