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A Complete Guide to Car Rental in Thailand

Posted on: 3rd April 2015

The Kingdom of Thailand has something to offer everyone. Its historical culture, beautiful beaches, their interesting arts, vibrant nightlife, its hospitable and friendly people along with the best food in the world, all of this contributes to turn Thailand into a fascinating destination. Most of the travelers come into contact with the country in Bangkok, the “city of Angels”. As opposed to other more traditional capitals, Bangkok is a dazzling metropolis with skyscrapers, gleaming shopping malls, trendy restaurants and nightclubs of international renown. From Bangkok, most travelers head north or South. The Northern destinations include the ancient capital of Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and the golden triangle.

car-rental-thailand

With such a vast option of things to experience, visit and do it’s not that easy to cover them all in a certain period of time. This is one of the primary reasons why a majority of tourists miss out on witnessing the flamboyant and artistic colors of Thailand. The best way to get the true feel of Thailand and discover it on your own terms is to hire a car. Be assure that if you hire a car all your travel problems are history.

Booking a car in Thailand is no longer a tedious affair that requires you to speak Thai. Nowadays you can make a booking in a very easy and convenient way, via the Internet or just a phone call to suppliers providing services in Thailand. Not wanting to drive even on a weekend is certainly no excuse, because you can even opt for a chauffeur to drive you around.

Why should you rent a car ?

    • When you choose to hire a car, irrespective of being a business traveler or a tourist. It gives you the freedom of arrive or depart at a certain place as per your convenience.
    • When you choose to travel by a rental car you have the independence to travel with the people you like and when you like.
    • Visit only the attractions that interest you and don’t waste time on attractions in which you aren’t interested.
    • You should be least bothered about a breakdown, as most suppliers either offer assistance or provide you with another car without any charges.

Documents required

To hire a car in Thailand you require to carry certain documents at all points of time. These documents may be reproduced on request of a law official. If you choose to drive the car yourself then a valid permanent drivers license or an international drivers license is required. The rental permit and your passport are to be present with you always.

Why should you rent a car

Car rental providers

It is important to know your option of car rental service providers. There are two main categories of car rental service providers. The first being International suppliers like Avis, Budget,Hertz and Thairentacar. When you choose to book with these suppliers you get additional benefits like CDW, RFT and more, but all this comes at a high price. Then there are the local suppliers, their rates are less in comparison but, not many facilities are provided. A notable mention is to Thailandcarsrentals.com , a local supplier providing you with all the facilities of an international supplier at the cost of a local supplier.

Necessary checks before picking up a rental car

    • Fuel level of the vehicle should be checked prior to pick-up as in some cases the same amount is required at the time of drop-off.
    • Check the AC and heater during summers and winters respectively.
    • Thoroughly inspect the cars exteriors for any kind of scratches or dents. The same should be done on the interior.
    • Be sure to inspect the car fluid levels like engine oil, fuel, windscreen washer fluid etc.

Drive Safe in Thailand

    • Driving is towards the left at a speed of 60km/h and 90-120km/h in the city and on expressway respectively is to be maintained.
    • Driver should be of a minimum age of 18 years, be sure to check this with your rental service provider.
    • Horns are to be used only when it is necessary, for instance when overtaking or warning a person in front about something.

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