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Seamlessly Travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

Enjoy the convenience of one-way car rental for a stress-free journey

Document required for international visitors
  • 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.
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Thailand national photo ID
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, JCB, and AMEX. Some policies also support debit cards (Visa, Master) and XpCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 6.62 per day (capped at US$ 33.13 for the rental) or US$ 7.46 per day, depending on the policy.
  • 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 documents include: Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (IDP is only a translation, and the original licence must also be presented). Additionally, an Original South Korea Driving License (English version) is accepted if it includes an English translation on the back.
  • 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. Some policies also support debit cards (Visa, Master) and XpCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 6.62 per day (capped at US$ 33.13 for the rental) or US$ 7.46 per day, depending on the policy.
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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

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 130-499US$ 0.00-199.21US$ 119-286Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 250-250US$ 186.18-186.18US$ 360-360Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 250-644US$ 93.09-186.18US$ 270-360Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 155-559US$ 0.00-99.60US$ 233-439Large groups, long drivers
Pickup TruckUS$ 147-242US$ 0.00-186.18US$ 290-317Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-way Fee: Many rental companies charge a one-way fee. Confirm the final amount during booking.
  • Cross-Border Restrictions: One-way rentals may not be allowed across certain borders. Verify policies when planning.
  • Vehicle Availability: Specific vehicle types might be limited for one-way routes. Book early to secure an option.
  • Drop-Off Timing: Ensure your drop-off aligns with the specified time to avoid late fees.
  • Drop-Off Location Policy: Understand the process and location-specific rules when dropping off your vehicle.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Your Route Beforehand: Study the maps and familiarize yourself with the drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai to ensure a smooth trip.
  • Calculate Cost Effectively: Include potential costs like fuel and one-way fees to plan your budget accurately.
  • Refuel Before Drop-Off: Check for a gas station near the drop-off location to return the car as per the fuel policy.
  • Choose Reliable Brands: Opt for rental services with good reviews to ensure quality service.
  • Secure Local Helpers: Confirm if the rental company offers roadside assistance in case of emergencies during your trip.
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
Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

PTT Station (Petrol+EV) Maefahluang Chiang Rai - 284 หมู่ที่ 10 Nang Lae, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand

PTT Station ปตท. ท่าอากาศยานแม่ฟ้าหลวง เชียงราย (น้ำมัน+EV) (บ.มีสตางค์สเตชั่น) - เลขที่ 422/1 Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid carrying unnecessary heavy items in the vehicle.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce fuel consumption.

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Chiang Mai Parking

Consider using parking facilities near the Old City for better accessibility.

Parking costs in Chiang Mai vary by location, with options ranging from free street parking to paid lots near popular attractions.

Chiang Rai Parking

Arrive early at tourist spots to secure convenient parking.

Parking in Chiang Rai is generally available near major landmarks and shopping centers.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like 'Parkopedia' and 'JustPark' can help find parking options and rates.

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Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure to carry cash or a payment card for unforeseen expenses.

Plan your route in advance to confirm the absence of toll roads.

The route from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai does not include any toll roads.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Major Route Options Between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai:
Highway 118 Direct Route
Direct Highway Route 3 hours

A straightforward and quick route via Highway 118, suitable for a fast trip.

Doi Saket , Mae Kachan Hot Springs
Scenic Mountain Route
Scenic Route 4.5 hours

A picturesque drive through mountainous terrains and small villages.

Phayao Lake , Chiang Saen
Cultural and Historical Route
Cultural Route 5 hours

Explore cultural and historical landmarks along the way.

Wiang Kum Kam , White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) , Baan Dam Museum
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Choose the Right Vehicle: Consider road conditions and distance to select a reliable rental car.

Use Updated Navigation Tools: Ensure your GPS or navigation app is up-to-date to avoid getting lost.

Plan Fuel Stops: Check for gas stations available along your route to avoid running out of fuel.

Avoid Driving at Night: Mountainous regions can be dangerous to navigate after dark.

Check the Weather: Rain can make roads slippery; plan your trip accordingly.

Understand Rental Fees: Clarify the costs for a one-way car rental to avoid disputes later.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting a car rental company for a one-way trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai involves considering factors like one-way fees, vehicle options, and company service coverage.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
RentalXpress$$HighWide Affordable one-way fees , Diverse vehicle options , 24/7 customer support
DriveEase$ModerateModerate Low fees , Eco-friendly cars , Quick customer service
TravelAuto Co$$$ExtensiveWide Premium vehicles , Comprehensive insurance options , Flexible pickup locations
Chiang Rent Rides$$HighLimited Convenient locations near airports , User-friendly mobile app , Competitive pricing on long rentals
QEEQ

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200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

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24/7 Customer Services

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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

Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Rental Centers Info

Operating Hours:

Rental centers in Chiang Mai operate daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Pickup Location:

The main pickup center is located at Chiang Mai Airport and downtown branches.

Shuttle Service:

Free airport shuttles are available every 15 minutes at Chiang Rai.

Return Policy:

Ensure the tank is full and the car is inspected upon return. Drop-off at Chiang Rai Airport is streamlined for convenience.

Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before accepting and avoid unnecessary accessories to reduce costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the approximate duration of the drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?

The drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai typically takes about 3–4 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. Major highways are used for this journey, offering pleasant driving conditions.

Are there any additional fees for a one-way car rental?

Most rental companies charge a one-way fee when returning the vehicle to a different location. This is common when renting a car in Chiang Mai and dropping it off at a Chiang Rai location. Check with your chosen rental provider for the exact amount.

What documents are required for renting a car in Chiang Mai?

To rent a car in Thailand, you will generally need a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit (if your license is not in English), a passport, and a credit card. Make sure to verify the requirements from your selected rental company.

Are there toll roads on the way to Chiang Rai?

Thailand has toll roads, but the route from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai does not primarily involve toll routes. Check your planned route and prepare for potential cash payments if you encounter one.

Can I visit attractions along the way during my rental?

Yes, you can plan stops at attractions along the route, such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) or natural hot springs, which are popular spots to explore when driving from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ