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Car Hire in Thailand – Simply Breathtaking
Thailand is a dynamic country in Southeast Asia known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and friendly people. The country offers a distinctive blend of history and modernity, with attractions ranging from the bustling streets and ornate temples of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of Phuket and the lush green hills of Chiang Mai. Buddhism is the primary religion in Thailand and its influence is evident in the temples, festivals and everyday activities. Thai cuisine is world-renowned for its delicious dishes, such as pad thai, green curry and tom yum soup. Thanks to its tropical environment, historical sites and welcoming people, Thailand remains one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a thriving city renowned for its unique fusion of modern developments and traditional culture. It is renowned for its bustling street markets, opulent temples and a vibrant culinary scene offering everything from street food to exquisite fine dining. The allure of Bangkok is enhanced by the Chao Phraya River - which flows through the city centre and offers beautiful boat rides. Every year, millions of tourists visit famous sights such as Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Pattaya and the Grand Palace with their car hire in Thailand. Despite its fast-paced city life, Bangkok maintains a close connection to its cultural heritage, making it a fascinating place for locals and visitors alike.
With over 65 years' experience in the international car rental industry, Auto Europe is able to offer its customers competitive rates and regular promotions. As well as standard car hire, we also offer luxury car hire and campervan hire. All our partners are conveniently located, with customers being able to choose from a wide range of vehicles. Please feel free to contact our reservation agents for assistance when renting a cheap car in Thailand. If you haven't used our service before, please read our Thailand car hire reviews to see what others think of us.
For more information on renting a vehicle in Thailand, click on the car hire related topics listed below:
| Our Car Hire Suppliers in Thailand | Thailand Car Hire FAQs | Vehicle Options in Thailand |
Where to pick-up a car hire in Thailand
There are many convenient pick-up locations across the country, most of which are located at major airports, central train stations or within city centres. Therefore, finding your preferred location should not be a major challenge. As we work with the best providers, you can rest assured that you will receive excellent service and a great rate. Please make sure you have all your documents ready before you arrive at the car hire desk. All suppliers offer the same high level of service, whether you are renting in Krabi or Chiang Mai.
When you arrive at the counter, you will need to present your driving licence (along with an international driving permit, if applicable), the car rental voucher, proof of identity and at least one credit card. The name of the primary driver must be on the credit card, and there must be enough funds available for a security deposit. The rental voucher's terms and conditions will specify whether more than one credit card is needed for a particular vehicle. Examine the car thoroughly and note down any damage on the pick-up slip. It is also important to have the car checked again when you return it. We recommend reading the voucher's conditions carefully, especially if any restrictions apply and the refuelling policy
Compare Car Hire Rates at the Most Popular Airports in Thailand
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Book with the best car hire suppliers in Thailand
We offer excellent savings on car hire worldwide through our trusted partners, along with a wide selection of vehicles to choose from. Enjoy access to various promotions, special offers and competitive rates from local, national and international car hire companies. In Thailand, leading companies such as Chic Car Rent, Drive Car Rental, Europcar and Sixt offer convenient pick-up locations throughout the country, including in Bangkok. We have made our booking process simple and transparent, and customers can cancel their reservation free-of-charge up to 48 hours before the start of your rental should you need to.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Renting a Car in Thailand
This section covers some of the most common concerns that drivers have in Thailand. Our aim is to ensure that your journey and your hire car experience are as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you have any questions after reading this guide, please contact us. These traffic rules apply throughout Thailand, from Koh Samui to Phuket and everywhere on the mainland.
How old do I have to be to rent a car in Thailand?
To rent a car in Thailand you must be at least 21 years old and have held a valid driving licence for at least one year. Drivers under the age of 18 cannot rent a car in Thailand due to national age restrictions. Customers between 21 and 26 years of age can rent a car, but a young driver surcharge may apply. Please see our age requirements section for further details, especially if this is your first car hire. When booking online, be sure to specify your age – this will ensure that our system only displays rental options available for your age group, along with any applicable charges or restrictions. For more information, click the ‘i’ info icon or read the terms and conditions on your car hire voucher. Ultimately, by following these guidelines, you can expect a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Can I pick up my car rental in Thailand in one place and drop it off in another?
Yes - It is permitted to rent a car on a one-way basis in Thailand. However, this incurs additional costs. Suppliers offering one-way rentals display their rates and conditions when you conduct an online search and state that you need a one-way. Suppliers may charge a daily rate, which will vary depending on the locations, rental period and vehicle type. Anyone planning to travel outside Thailand must provide a list of all intended destinations when making a reservation. There is also a daily charge that must be paid directly to the provider if this is accepted. Prior acceptance by the supplier is required. Ferry travel is not permitted.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Thailand?
Yes - You will need a valid credit cards to collect your vehicle. Some providers require several cards depending on the type of vehicle. The main driver's name must be on the card and there must be enough funds to cover the deposit. We accept all major credit cards, including Mastercard and Visa. To see a full list of payment options, click on the ‘i’ info icon or read the terms and conditions on your car hire voucher. When renting a car in Thailand, please note that the deposit will only be refunded if the vehicle is returned in the same condition.
Debit cards, cash, digital credit cards and prepaid credit cards are not accepted for deposit purposes. Only physical credit cards are accepted. Some suppliers may accept a debit card however will require you to take out additional insurance at a substantial cost. Failure to provide the required credit card and deposit may mean the supplier will not release the vehicle, and you will lost your booking and money.
What are the most important driving rules in Thailand?
Thailand has a good network of well-maintained roads and motorways - both are well constructed and easy to follow. Most of the north-south route is dual carriageway. Road signs follow the international convention and are written in both Thai and English, although directions in more remote provinces are written only in Thai. It is not recommended to travel at night due to heavy truck traffic. When driving the following basic road rules and regulations should be adhered to. Drivers must drive on the left-hand side of the road. Also indicate your intentions, especially when changing lanes. Parking in some cities is regulated and dependent on specific days and times. Parking may vary depending on odd or even number plates. We advise always checking parking signs. Never park on a red and white marked curb.
Driving style in Thailand is aggressive and drivers do not normally stop at intersections. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone. The driver must have on his person their driving licence, identification and car registration documents. Generally, petrol stations are open from 08h00 until 20h00, with some being 24-hours. Parking rules and fees are usually marked on signs (with English translations in tourist areas). Yellow and white markings usually designate a bus stop, so you should not park in these spaces. Diagonal white lines indicate parking spaces for motorcycles only. Fines are given for cars parked in the wrong place or for too long. These can be paid at the local police station. If the vehicle has been clamped, a police officer will be delegated to remove the wheel clamps. If you breakdown do not panic and call for assistance and inform both the rental supplier and Auto Europe.
Do I need to pay tolls when driving my car hire in Thailand?
Yes – In Thailand tolls are calculated according to the distance travelled on each section of the motorway. As many toll booths only accept cash, it is advisable to have enough small change to hand while travelling.
What kind of insurance do I need for my car hire in Thailand?
When booking, the minimum car hire insurance coverage that is required by law in Thailand is included with all basic rental rates. This includes Limited Liability insurance, with or without excess, Theft Protection (TP) and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). Please be aware that not all situations or damages to the vehicle are covered by this basic insurance. For additional coverage, we advise acquiring our Full Protection Cover policy at the time of booking. This will include greater protection to your vehicle should it get stolen or be damaged. The type of vehicle and length of rental will determine the overall cost of our Full Protection Cover. During the booking process, you can learn more by clicking the ‘i’ info icon or by reading the terms and conditions of your rental voucher.
Additional insurance may be offered by local suppliers during pick-up. These local insurance policies are typically not necessary if you have already obtained our Full Protection Cover. Some examples of locally offered insurances are; Roadside Assistance, Personal Effects Insurance (PEI), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), Travel Insurance, Breakdown Cover and more. These are fully optional and Auto Europe does not recommend or profit from any. Any insurance obtained locally will not be refunded by us, even if deemed unnecessary afterwards. Consult our car hire coverage section to find out more.
Can I use my UK licence to drive my rental in Thailand?
Yes - You can drive in Thailand if your UK driving licence is a valid photocard driving licence. Paper driving licences are not accepted. An International Driving Permit is not required for Thailand. However, when you present your licence to the car hire company, you will need to show them a valid DVLA check code or a printed certificate of any endorsements. Please refer to the DVLA changes section for further details. Endorsements must be printed and presented at least 21 days before the start of the hire. Although an IDP is not required, we recommend you check if it is required due to individual supplier company policy.
Can I add an additional driver to my rental car in Thailand?
Yes - You can add extra drivers to your car hire in Thailand. We regularly offer promotions such as free additional drivers at certain locations, otherwise an additional fee will apply for anyone adding an additional driver to their booking. Each additional driver must provide the same documentation as the main driver. - identification and driving licence. To ensure that any additional drivers are covered by the insurance, it is important that you list all additional drivers during pick-up. If an unlisted driver causes damage to the vehicle, the main renter will be responsible for the costs.
Additional Vehicle Rental Options in Thailand
We have a hire car to suit everyone, every journey and every activity. With such a wide range of vehicles to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect car for your needs. Whether you're looking for a compact car for your daily commute or a larger SUV offering more space and performance - we have what you need. While our large vehicles offer more horsepower for those who need it, mini cars are great for fuel efficiency. Consider factors such as legroom, luggage space and seating comfort when making your decision. Our small and economy vehicles offer the perfect balance of efficiency, performance and comfort. If you are planning a long journey, our larger vehicles are ideal for long-distance and motorway travel due to their spaciousness and engine power. You can find more details in our Thailand fleet guide.
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Luxury Car Hire Thailand - Many of our business travellers prefer to rent a premium car in Thailand rather than choosing one of our standard options. Our fleet includes premium brands such as BMW, Mercedes and Toyota, offering both flair and performance. These vehicles have elegant interiors and exteriors, and feature the latest gadgets that you would expect from a luxury vehicle. With their powerful engines and excellent handling, they are ideal for making a good first impression at business meetings. Hire a luxury car in Thailand and start your journey in spectacular style.
Van Hire Thailand - If you need to transport a large quantity of goods or are travelling with a large group, hiring a van in Thailand is an excellent option. Vans offer plenty of power and space, making them ideal for situations that require both. They usually have space for up to seven passengers with ample legroom, but still with enough room for luggage and equipment. Many people who hire vans are attending events or travelling in large groups. Booking a van is a more cost-effective way as opposed to hiring several smaller vehicles.
SUV Hire Thailand - For many people, staying in the city is just the beginning of their holidays. We highly recommend exploring Thailand’s marvellous countryside. This hilly country is rich in breathtaking landscapes, dramatic panoramas and beautiful historic villages. For this, an SUV can really come into its own. Thanks to their durability and strength, these vehicles are ideal for tackling any terrain and making the most of your holiday.
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