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Explore the Scenic Route from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Experience convenience and freedom with one-way car rentals

Can I rent a car from Chiang Mai to Bangkok?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Chiang Mai to Bangkok. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for TH residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Thailand national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 years.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, JCB, and AMEX. Debit cards are accepted in some cases (Visa and Master).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 6.19 per day or US$ 7.46 per day, depending on the rental provider.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 years. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version). An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.
  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, JCB, and AMEX. Debit cards are accepted in some cases (Visa and Master).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 6.19 per day or US$ 7.46 per day, depending on the rental provider.
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How much does renting a car from Chiang Mai to Bangkok cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 73/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 104/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 181-US$ 452US$ 0-US$ 343US$ 217-US$ 403Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 195-US$ 207US$ 156US$ 257-US$ 287Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 207-US$ 271US$ 0-US$ 283US$ 287-US$ 359Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 215-US$ 650US$ 0-US$ 343US$ 312-US$ 823Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 194-US$ 638US$ 0-US$ 343US$ 347-US$ 510Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 194-US$ 202US$ 156US$ 254-US$ 277Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • Understand the one-way rental fee: One-way rentals often involve an additional drop-off fee. Confirm the exact cost with the rental company to avoid surprises.
  • Check cross-border restrictions: If your journey involves crossing borders, ensure your rental agreement permits it and understand any applicable restrictions.
  • Duration and flexibility of rental: Ensure the rental duration suits your travel plans and inquire about flexibility in case of schedule changes.
  • Fuel policy awareness: Clarify if the rental requires returning the car with a full tank and locate nearby gas stations to the drop-off point.
  • Select the right vehicle for your trip: Choose a vehicle suitable for the journey between Chiang Mai and Bangkok, considering distance, comfort, and capacity.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book your rental in advance: Pre-booking ensures availability and could secure better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Plan your route thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the route, potential stops, and alternative paths to make your journey smoother.
  • Leverage rental reviews: Consider customer feedback to select a reliable rental provider with positive recommendations.
  • Check for insurance options: Ensure your rental includes sufficient insurance coverage or consider additional options for peace of mind.
  • Monitor mileage policies: Understand if the rental agreement includes unlimited mileage or determine the potential costs for exceeded limits.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Tolls
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Use gas stations near the drop-off location for convenience.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel price is around 40 THB per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed around 90 km/h for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure tire pressure is at the recommended level to reduce rolling resistance.

Minimize air conditioning usage to save fuel.

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Chiang Mai Parking

Parking in Chiang Mai city center can cost around 20-50 THB per hour.

Several parking lots near tourist areas offer daily rates.

Consider using parking areas at shopping malls for security and convenience.

Bangkok Parking

Parking in Bangkok is often limited and can cost up to 100 THB per hour in central areas.

Look for parking near public transportation hubs for easier city access.

Use multi-level parking facilities for better availability.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia helps locate parking spaces and compare prices.

Traffy Fondue provides real-time parking availability in Thailand.

Google Maps can also show nearby parking facilities.

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Tolls and FasTrak

The route includes toll roads such as the Don Muang Tollway and the Bangkok Expressway.

Toll charges can range from 30 to 100 THB depending on the segment.

Ensure you have sufficient cash or a prepaid toll card for payment.

Toll Payment Options

Cash payments are widely accepted at toll booths.

Prepaid toll cards like the M-Pass or Easy Pass can be used for faster transactions.

Some tolls may accept contactless payments.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Chiang Mai to Bangkok:
Chiang Mai to Sukhothai to Bangkok
Historical Sights 9 hours 30 minutes

Pass through the heritage city of Sukhothai and explore its historical park before continuing to Bangkok.

Chiang Mai , Sukhothai , Bangkok
Chiang Mai through Lampang via Nakhon Sawan to Bangkok
Scenic & Urban Mix 10 hours

Enjoy the charm of Lampang and cultural hubs in Nakhon Sawan on your way to the capital.

Chiang Mai , Lampang , Nakhon Sawan , Bangkok
Direct Route via Highway 11 and Highway 1
Straight Distance 8 hours

Opt for the quickest and direct route to connect Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

Chiang Mai , Bangkok
Road Trip Planning Tips

Vehicle Choice: Opt for a fuel-efficient vehicle to accommodate long-distance travel.

Budgeting: Plan your budget considering fuel, toll charges, and overnight stays.

Route Selection: Use GPS and updated maps to choose the best route for safety and convenience.

Fuel Stops: Locate refueling stations along the route using navigation apps.

Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Travel Safety: Carry a first-aid kit and emergency supplies to ensure a safe trip.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right rental company can make your journey from Chiang Mai to Bangkok smooth and hassle-free. Here are some top options:

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Avis$$Highly diverseExtensive network Wide range of vehicles , 24/7 customer support , Easy pickup and dropoff
Budget$ModerateReasonable coverage Affordable pricing , Good vehicle maintenance , Frequent promotions
Hertz$$$Extensive luxury and standard optionsNationwide Broad inventory , Comprehensive insurance options , Efficient support services
Thailand Rent a Car$ModerateProminent urban centers Unique local insights , Competitive pricing , Flexible rental terms
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Information about Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Most centers operate from 6 AM to 10 PM, with extended hours at airports.

Locations:

Rental services are available at frequent locations, particularly at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary shuttles are typically available every 15-30 minutes from airport terminals.

One-Way Rental Guidelines:

Some restrictions might apply; ensure to confirm availability and fulfillment conditions during booking.

Pro Tips for Chiang Mai Airport(CNX) Car Rentals

Book your rental well in advance during peak travel seasons to secure the best rates and vehicle availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are one-way car rentals between Chiang Mai and Bangkok available?

Yes, many car rental companies offer one-way rental options for the route between Chiang Mai and Bangkok. These services allow the vehicle to be picked up in Chiang Mai and dropped off in Bangkok upon completion of your journey.

Is there an additional fee for one-way rentals?

Most car rental companies charge a one-way fee, which is an extra cost to cover the logistics of vehicle return or relocation. The fee amount varies, so it is recommended to check with the specific rental company during booking.

How long does it take to drive from Chiang Mai to Bangkok?

The typical driving time from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is approximately 9-11 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It is suggested to plan for stops along the route for rest and fuel.

What documents are required to rent a car in Thailand?

You will generally need a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit, and a valid passport to rent a car in Thailand. Additional documentation, such as proof of insurance, may also be required by some companies.

Is fuel included in the rental cost?

Usually, fuel is not included in the base rental price. Cars are typically rented with a full tank of gas and are expected to be returned refueled to the same level, or additional charges may apply.

Ready to Book Your Chiang Mai to Bangkok Adventure?

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