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Thailand Car Rental Mini Guide

There's so much to see and do in Thailand the thought of restricting your visit due to choice of transport seems an odd one. Hiring a car in Thailand offers flexibility and the freedom to travel beyond the tour operator trail and make your own experiences. Backed by most of the major international car hire companies and supported by trusted local companies, hiring a car in Thailand is not only a good idea, but a great one.
 

Hiring a car in Thailand can be a convenient way to explore the country, but there are several factors to consider:

1. Safety: Thailand has a relatively safe road network, but traffic accidents do occur. To stay safe, follow these guidelines:

  • Drive defensively and be aware of local driving habits.
  • Always wear seat belts, and ensure all passengers do the same.
  • Avoid driving at night in rural areas due to reduced visibility and road conditions.
  • Be cautious of wildlife, especially in rural and mountainous regions.

2. Road Rules: Thailand follows left-hand driving, similar to many other countries. However, traffic rules and enforcement can vary widely, so it's essential to be vigilant. Common road rules include obeying traffic signals, wearing seat belts, and not using a mobile phone while driving.

3. Traffic: Traffic congestion can be a concern in major cities like Bangkok, especially during rush hours. In rural areas and on highways, traffic is generally lighter. Plan your routes and travel times accordingly to avoid heavy traffic.

4. Road Terrain: Thailand's road conditions vary widely. Major highways and roads connecting popular tourist destinations are usually in good condition. However, rural and mountainous areas may have narrower and winding roads, so drive cautiously. Some off-the-beaten-path areas might have unpaved roads.

5. Type of Vehicle: The type of vehicle you should hire depends on your travel plans:

  • Compact or Economy Cars: Suitable for city driving and short distances.
  • Midsize or Full-Size Cars: Comfortable for longer journeys and can accommodate small families.
  • SUVs: Good for exploring off-road areas and mountainous terrain.
  • Motorbikes: Common in Thailand, especially in beach towns. Ensure you have the necessary licenses and insurance if you plan to rent a motorbike.

6. Distances from Airport to Main Resorts:

  • Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Located about 30 kilometers east of central Bangkok.
  • Don Mueang International Airport (DMK): Situated about 24 kilometers north of central Bangkok.
  • Phuket International Airport (HKT): Approximately 32 kilometers from Phuket Town and popular beach destinations.
  • Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX): Located about 4 kilometers southwest of Chiang Mai's city center.

When renting a car, make sure you have the necessary international or local driver's license and insurance. Familiarize yourself with local road signs and conditions, and exercise caution, especially in unfamiliar areas. Overall, hiring a car in Thailand can provide you with flexibility and access to less touristy destinations, but it's essential to drive responsibly and adapt to local driving practices.


Cheapest car hire in Thailand

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Mirage

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 21.23 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Mirage

7 Days rental at 148.64 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 29.03 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 203.23 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 29.03 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 203.23 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 29.03 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 203.23 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 29.03 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 203.23 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 31.05 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 217.41 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 31.05 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 217.41 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 31.05 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 217.41 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 31.05 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 217.41 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Vios

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 31.05 EUR/day
Toyota Vios

7 Days rental at 217.41 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 22.03 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.26 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 22.03 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.26 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 22.03 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.26 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 22.03 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.26 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 22.04 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.31 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 22.04 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.31 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 22.04 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.31 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 22.04 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.31 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Yaris

5 Adults, 3 Doors

From 22.04 EUR/day
Toyota Yaris

7 Days rental at 154.31 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 51.31 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 359.20 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 51.31 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 359.20 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 51.31 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 359.20 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 58.58 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 410.08 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 58.58 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 410.08 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 58.58 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 410.08 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 66.92 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 468.47 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 66.92 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 468.47 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Fortuner

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 66.92 EUR/day
Toyota Fortuner

7 Days rental at 468.47 EUR from 23/10/2023

  5 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.30 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.10 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.30 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.10 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.30 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.10 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.30 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.10 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.31 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.17 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.31 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.17 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.31 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.17 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.31 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.17 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Altis

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 35.31 EUR/day
Toyota Altis

7 Days rental at 247.17 EUR from 23/10/2023

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

BYD Atto 3

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 65.73 EUR/day
BYD Atto 3

7 Days rental at 460.17 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

GWM Ora

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 57.74 EUR/day
GWM Ora

7 Days rental at 404.20 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

BYD Atto 3

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 65.73 EUR/day
BYD Atto 3

7 Days rental at 460.17 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

GWM Ora

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 57.74 EUR/day
GWM Ora

7 Days rental at 404.20 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

GWM Ora

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 51.51 EUR/day
GWM Ora

7 Days rental at 360.57 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

BYD Atto 3

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 65.73 EUR/day
BYD Atto 3

7 Days rental at 460.17 EUR from 23/10/2023

  3 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

GWM Ora

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 57.74 EUR/day
GWM Ora

7 Days rental at 404.20 EUR from 23/10/2023

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Top tips when hiring a car in Thailand

  • Drive on the LEFT-hand side of the road in Thailand, the steering wheel will be on the right side of the car
  • There are toll roads in Thailand, you can pay by card but we advise always carrying a small amount of cash
  • Speed limits are posted in KM/H with the maximum being 120km/h on the motorways
  • The average waiting time at the car rental desks in Thailand is just 14 mintues
  • 10 car hire companies compete for your business in Thailand, helping to keep prices low

Laws and rules of the road when driving in Thailand

  •  

    L

    Road Driving Side

  •  

    50kph

    Urban speed Limit

  •  

    90kph

    Rural Speed Limit

  •  

    120kph

    Motorway Speed Limit

  •  

    THB  49.33/Ltr

    Current Petrol Price

  •  

    20-50mg

    Drink Drive Limit

  •  

    THB

    Currency

  •  

    YES

    Tolls

  •  

    21

    Min Rental Age

    18

    Min Driving Age

  •  

    Front and Rear

    Seatbelts

  •  

    Fixed and Mobile

    Speed Cameras

  •  

    Hands Free Only

    Mobile Phones

Compare car rental agents in Thailand

Rental Agent
Locations
Rating (/10)
Customer Reviews
Mini (€/day)
Compact (€/day)
Intermediate (€/day)
Standard (€/day)
 Drive car rental
9
8.8/10
56
€ 31.05
€ 35.27
 Sixt
14
8.8/10
592
€ 36.06
€ 48.01
€ 57.62
€ 66.92
 Asap rent a car
7
8.7/10
104
€ 29.03
€ 35.30
 Yesaway
4
8.6/10
52
€ 31.74
€ 31.05
€ 35.30
 Hertz
15
8.6/10
265
€ 28.68
€ 31.05
 Europcar
11
8.0/10
221
€ 21.23
€ 31.06
€ 35.31
€ 35.28

Car rental agent statistics in Thailand

  • 9.2/10
    Highest rated agent:
    SIXT
  • 7.3/10
    Lowest rated agent:
    EUROPCAR
  • 1,290
    Total number of reviews in
    Thailand
  • 14
    Most Locations in Thailand:
    HERTZ
  • 17
    Average wait time
    (Min.)
  • 15
    Total rental companies
     

Average prices per day for car hire in Thailand

ItemPercent
January€ 53
February€ 54
March€ 47
April€ 44
May€ 39
June€ 31
July€ 32
August€ 31
September€ 30
October€ 32
November€ 32
December€ 37
ItemPercent
January€ 32
February€ 29
March€ 28
April€ 27
May€ 25
June€ 25
July€ 26
August€ 27
September€ 25
October€ 27
November€ 26
December€ 32
ItemPercent
January€ 86
February€ 93
March€ 86
April€ 74
May€ 65
June€ 54
July€ 59
August€ 60
September€ 55
October€ 59
November€ 51
December€ 66
ItemPercent
January€ 63
February€ 62
March€ 54
April€ 53
May€ 50
June€ 41
July€ 45
August€ 46
September€ 44
October€ 46
November€ 43
December€ 48
ItemPercent
January€ 210
February
March€ 359
April€ 326
May€ 319
June€ 322
July€ 292
August€ 369
September€ 199
October€ 203
November€ 206
December€ 200
ItemPercent
January€ 38
February€ 37
March€ 33
April€ 25
May€ 23
June€ 24
July€ 24
August€ 24
September€ 23
October€ 25
November€ 24
December€ 29
ItemPercent
January€ 82
February€ 86
March€ 75
April€ 60
May€ 55
June€ 44
July€ 46
August€ 46
September€ 40
October€ 42
November€ 39
December€ 55
ItemPercent
January€ 68
February€ 53
March€ 50
April€ 54
May€ 45
June€ 41
July€ 47
August€ 47
September€ 44
October€ 49
November€ 44
December€ 51

Select category to see average car hire prices in Thailand

*average daily rates based on 7 day rental, search for today's best prices.

Fuel prices in Thailand

DieselUnleaded
Oct , 2022

€ 0.94

€ 1.13

Nov , 2022

€ 0.94

€ 1.20

Dec , 2022

€ 0.95

€ 1.16

Jan , 2023

€ 0.98

€ 1.18

Feb , 2023

€ 0.97

€ 1.21

Mar , 2023

€ 0.92

€ 1.21

Apr , 2023

€ 0.90

€ 1.20

May , 2023

€ 0.88

€ 1.16

Jun , 2023

€ 0.86

€ 1.18

Jul , 2023

€ 0.83

€ 1.13

Aug , 2023

€ 0.84

€ 1.23

Sep , 2023

€ 0.78

€ 1.26

Month, YearDiesel €/ltrUnleaded €/ltr
Sep , 2023 0.78 1.26
Aug , 2023 0.84 1.23
Jul , 2023 0.83 1.13
Jun , 2023 0.86 1.18
May , 2023 0.88 1.16
Apr , 2023 0.90 1.20
Mar , 2023 0.92 1.21
Feb , 2023 0.97 1.21
Jan , 2023 0.98 1.18
Dec , 2022 0.95 1.16
Nov , 2022 0.94 1.20
Oct , 2022 0.94 1.13

Car rental price statistics in Thailand

  • € 148.61
    Average price:
    (per week)
  • € 131.40
    Highest daily price:
    Toyota Fortuner
  • 328
    Total cars available
     
  • 62
    Most popular model:
    Toyota Yaris
  • 48
    Location with most cars:
    Bangkok - Suvarnabhumi Airport
  • € 21.2 per day
    Cheapest daily price:
    EUROPCAR - Bangkok - Downtown
FAQs - How can we help?

There are always some points on which you are not sure when hiring a car, so we have done our best to answer the frequently asked questions. Just click this link and you will find the questions are sorted by category for easy navigation.

Useful links if renting a car in Thailand

Other Car Hire Locations in Thailand

We specialise in car rentals throughout Thailand to find you the best price and that's a promise...

Car Hire Bangkok
€16.3
 
 
Mini 5 4 2 from €16.5 per day
Compact 5 4 3 from €18.0 per day
Economy 3 5 2 from €16.3 per day
Car Hire Chiang Mai
€18.0
 
 
Economy 5 4 2 from €15.7 per day
Compact 5 4 3 from €18.0 per day
Mini 5 4 2 from €15.7 per day
Car Hire Krabi  (Ao Nang)
€18.0
 
 
Economy 5 4 2 from €15.7 per day
Compact 5 4 3 from €18.0 per day
Mini 5 4 2 from €15.7 per day
Car Hire Phuket
€16.3
 
 
Mini 5 4 2 from €16.6 per day
Compact 5 4 3 from €18.0 per day
Economy 3 5 2 from €16.3 per day