Where to Rent a Car in Phuket? – Phuket Car Rentals

Where to Rent a Car in Phuket?

Finding a car rental company is very easy and hassle-free if you follow some basic rules. We recommend booking in advance with a reputable international brand to avoid any bad surprises.

Driving in Phuket is known to be hectic and unpredictable, but if you focus on the road and on the vehicles around you, it’s not that difficult. Just read this page before you go, and you will be a little more prepared. Traffic in the southern part of Phuket can be hectic because of underpass and overpass constructions added to the usual rush hour.

4 Ways to Rent a Car in Phuket

Book in advance with an international brand
Rent a Car at Phuket Airport
Book in advance with a local company
Rent in the streets on location
Rent a car or a van with a driver

1. Book with an international brand

Our advice to avoid any bad surprise is to always book in advance with an international brand. And this for several good reasons:

Booking in advance makes sure the car type you prefer is available. If you arrive during the low season, this is not going to be much of a problem, but during the high season, you might end up having to rent a model more expensive than what you originally had in mind.

You could also have to contact several companies before you get a car for the dates you planned. This is particularly true if you plan to book for a relatively long period.

The Insurance

You only find out how good or bad insurance is when something has happened, and it is too late to change your mind. Most international brands have long proof of record, and you can expect the promised insurance to kick in when needed. Usually, there is a margin that will not be covered, but you can buy an extra cover. We always take that extra coverage for peace of mind, but it is not compulsory.

Most companies have a booth at both terminals, domestic and international. We tried most of them with more or less satisfaction. Everyone’s experience will be a little different, especially during the high season.

Thai Rent a Car, which is a Thai company, had good prices, but cars were older than they looked as they seem to be painted often, and the first models often lack power. Other international companies were more or less equal in service provided, but we were mostly pleased by Europcar for both service and car condition. No bad smell, often brand new cars, occasional upgrade and friendly staff. (not a sponsored story!)

2. Renting a car at Phuket Airport with international brands

Ideally, you booked your car in advance as advised above, and all you will have to do is pick it upon arrival. The time it takes to collect the vehicle varies a lot, even if all the documents are in order. Just be patient; it never speeds up the process if you get angry

If you didn’t book, most companies would probably have a car for you, but your choice might be limited, the vehicle could be old or worse if you arrive at peak season: no more cars available!

Staff at car rental airport counters can appear moody, but you have to understand they often have to deal with grumpy people landing after a long uncomfortable trip and queuing at immigration for a long time.