Best Reasons to Rent a Car in Thailand

When searching for destinations in Thailand, Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya will be the top three results. Other popular destinations such as Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, and Chiang Mai will also appear frequently. 

While these popular cities and beach towns are wonderful, they often lack the authentic Thai culture found outside of tourist areas. There’s so much more to Thailand than just its popular cities, and hiring a car in Phuket can help you discover what you’ve been missing. 

The Real Thailand

Tourist hotspots in Thailand tend to have a top ten list of things to see and do, and these typically take a day or two to experience. After that, many tourists find themselves hanging around the tourist districts for their remaining days. Others may opt for guided tours into the countryside. 

Many of the restaurants these day excursions stop at are also tourist traps. Serving the same three dishes to hundreds of people a day tends to lack the care and love that a small cafe offers. For foodies, this leaves a lot to be desired.

Having a rental can transform your vacation. You can drive at your own pace and find a cafe filled with locals for a fantastic meal. Asking your hotel front desk or friendly restaurant staff is another great way to get recommendations. Many Thais are very proud of their country and want nothing more than to share it with others. 

Hidden waterfalls, stunning viewpoints, and cute cafes await. Tell them you want to see the places where few foreigners go, and you just might find yourself someplace magical. 

Cost Effective Travel

Regarding guided tours to places out of town, there are some absolutely wonderful places to see. These day trips often cost $50 to $100 (£40 to £80) or more, per person, while the destination entrance fee is a paltry $5 to $10 (£4 to £8). This is where tour companies make their real money. 

$50 or $100 is a reasonable price for an individual. With a group of three however, the cost adds up fast for a guided trip. With a rental car and $20 (£16) in gas, the cost of that same trip gets reduced by 75%. It also means you won’t be hurried through the destination, giving you more time to see the sights. Lastly, in-town taxi fares in Thailand are low compared to Western countries. One ride may be cheap, but multiple taxi fares over a day can add up quickly. With rental cars available in Phuket, choosing to go wherever, whenever, is often more affordable.

Ride in Style

Large grey vans are the tour guide vehicle of choice in Thailand. Seating up to twelve people, they are economical for the tour companies. However, what is economical for them can be uncomfortable for its passengers. 

Getting a car means answering to no one except yourself and your travel companions. A leisurely pace of driving, good music, and full control of the air conditioner are underrated experiences, and choosing a vehicle that fits your needs is one of the biggest advantages of getting a rental.

Personalised Memories

A rental car is more than just personal transport–it allows the renter the ability to determine their vacation destiny. No haggling, no asking permission, no hoping for the last spot on the bus, and no waiting on other tourists. 

Some tourists leave Thailand with the impression that it is an overhyped tourist trap. With a car hire, seeing the things that are important to your personal tastes makes all the difference. Those who have ventured off the beaten path may have an entirely different tale to tell when they arrive back home!

If you’re looking to make your own personalised memories of Thailand, Drive Car Rental has rental locations throughout Thailand. From Bangkok to Chiang Mai to Phuket to Krabi, we have a spot that’s convenient for you. Book your rental car today for the best rates and see where the road takes you!