Renting a car is a fantastic way to get around the island of Koh Phangan.
Having a car allows you to explore at your own pace and go off the usual path.
Before renting a car here, you need to know a few things, such as whether you're eligible, what you'll need, and what you'll deal with.
Car rental firms determine the minimum age. Some companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, while others require drivers to be at least 23 years old.
In Thailand, car rental firms need drivers to hold a valid driver's license for at least a year. Luxury automobiles are only available to more experienced drivers.
You must have a Thai driver's license or an international driver's permit if you intend to drive in Thailand. In rare situations, your home country's driver's license will function, but you will not be insured by insurance.
Always bring a copy of your passport photo and visa page, as well as your driver's license or international driver's permit. If stopped by Thai authorities, failure to carry these documents can result in a substantial punishment.
Koh Phangan’s roads have been improved over the last few years, however, finding some tough parts of the road with numerous potholes is not uncommon.
Thailand has been named the country with the highest rate of fatal traffic accidents in the world.
Drunk drivers and motorcycles provide the greatest danger. Because traffic restrictions are rarely strictly enforced, reckless and rapid driving is common.
Accidents do happen, so make sure you have trustworthy travel insurance, in case you need it.
Minor roads, particularly in rural areas, are not always brightly lit.
If this is your first time driving here, avoid driving at night to lessen the danger of an accident.
Stray animals, such as street dogs, can be dangerous because they sleep in the centre of the road or dart across moving automobiles.
At dusk, street dogs can be especially difficult to notice, so drivers should be on the watch at all times.
If you stay alert at all times while driving on Koh Phangan, you should have no troubles.
The cost of renting a car varies on where you are, the season and which car rental business you use.
The size and design of the car are two other key factors that influence rental costs.
A standard typical budget car can be rented for 700 baht per day and can cost up to 3000 baht per day for a luxury model.
A large, luxury car with a few accessories might cost as much as 5,000 baht each day.
The monthly rental is different also, and you could get a discount for this.
Before you sign the rental car contract, you should thoroughly look over the car with a rental car company representative.
While strolling around the automobile and looking for visible evidence of damage, there are a few things to keep in mind.
If you find any scratches, dents, or other damage evidence, please let a staff member know and make sure that they are noted. To avoid being charged for this damage when you return the vehicle, you and the firm should preserve a signed record.
Ensure the rental car's license plates are current and the tires are correctly inflated with even tread wear.
The vehicle's interior should be spotless, and the owner's manual should be kept in the glove box.
Look for a spare tire, lug wrench, and jack under the hood and in the trunk.
When you return your rental automobile, it is thoroughly inspected by a staff member.
Staff inspects the trunk, glove box, and storage compartments, below the back and front seats, as well as the mileage and gas gauge, in addition to looking for damage.
You will be responsible and have to pay for any damages or scrapes discovered.
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