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Discover the Scenic Route from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

A seamless one-way car rental journey through northern Thailand's landscapes

Can I rent a car from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. 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 year.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, JCB, and AMEX. XpCard is supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-24 will incur an additional fee of US$ 6.62 per day.
  • 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 year. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an IDP is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
    • Original South Korea Driving License (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. XpCard is supported. Debit cards are also accepted, including Visa and Master.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-24 will incur an additional fee of US$ 6.62 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai 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$ 35/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 78/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 58-US$ 354US$ 0-US$ 265US$ 104-US$ 316Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 227-US$ 239US$ 187US$ 288-US$ 317Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 92-US$ 271US$ 0-US$ 187US$ 204-US$ 391Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 102-US$ 283US$ 0-US$ 200US$ 233-US$ 428Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 237-US$ 329US$ 0-US$ 265US$ 346-US$ 480Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 237-US$ 235US$ 0-US$ 187US$ 294-US$ 307Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • Understand One-Way Fees: Confirm with your car rental company if a one-way fee applies for dropping off the car in a different city.
  • Check Vehicle Condition: Inspect the car for any prior damages and make sure it is suitable for the trip through Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
  • Route Planning: Plan your route carefully to enjoy scenic spots along the way while ensuring you remain on paved roads.
  • Rental Terms and Conditions: Review all terms and conditions of the rental agreement for policies specific to one-way routes.
  • Fuel Policies: Understand the fuel policy, whether it's full-to-full or another arrangement, and locate gas stations near your drop-off point.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early: Secure your one-way rental car early to get better rates and the car model of your choice.
  • Explore Scenic Stops: Research key attractions to enjoy along the Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai route.
  • Travel During Off-Peak Times: Avoid peak traffic periods for a smoother and faster journey.
  • Keep Contacts Handy: Have the car rental company's contact information readily available for emergencies.
  • Allow Flexibility in Schedule: Budget extra time for unforeseen delays when planning your trip.
  • Ensure Environmental Consciousness: Try to refuel at eco-friendly gas stations and follow local guidelines for an environmentally responsible 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
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car to the same level as when picked up to avoid extra charges.

Save the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling before returning the car.

Refueling at stations away from the airport or city centers is often cheaper.

Fuel Cost

The average cost of fuel along this route is approximately 35 THB per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady driving speed of around 80-90 km/h for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure tire pressure is at the recommended level for better mileage.

Minimize the use of air conditioning where possible to conserve fuel.

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Chiang Rai Parking

Free parking is available at most public areas in Chiang Rai.

Airport parking rates start at 20 THB per hour.

Use designated parking zones to avoid fines.

Chiang Mai Parking

Parking in Chiang Mai city center can be challenging during peak hours.

Hourly parking rates in malls range from 20 to 50 THB.

Look for parking signs to avoid restricted areas.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia: Find parking spaces and compare prices.

JustPark: Reserve parking spots in advance.

ParkMe: Provides real-time parking availability.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Top Scenic Routes from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai:
Highway 118 Direct Route
Scenic Route 3-4 hours

This route offers a direct connection, passing through scenic lush landscapes and mountainous terrains.

Mae Suai Reservoir , Doi Saket
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai via Phayao
Cultural Route 5-6 hours

A detour through Phayao allowing exploration of traditional Thai villages and Phayao Lake.

Phayao Lake , Wat Analayo Thipphayaram
Mae Hong Son Loop
Adventure Route 9-10 hours

A challenging but beautiful loop route, ideal for exploring Mae Hong Son's rustic charm.

Pai , Doi Inthanon National Park
Helpful Tips for a Road Trip

Refueling: Gas stations may be sparse; fill your tank before leaving city limits.

Renting the Right Vehicle: Choose a car suitable for mountain driving with good fuel efficiency.

Navigating the Route: Use up-to-date maps or GPS and spot-check alternate routes for expediency.

Car Safety: Park in secured lots and don’t leave valuables visible inside the vehicle.

Confirming Rental Terms: Check the terms for drop-off fees and vehicle condition policies to avoid misunderstandings.

Adhering to Road Conditions: Be cautious of curvy mountain roads, especially in the rainy season for safety.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Thai Rent A Car$HighNational Affordable one-way fees , Diverse vehicle options available
Budget Thailand$$HighNational and Regional Reliable service network , Frequent promotions for one-way rentals
Avis Thailand$$HighMajor Cities Wide fleet choice, including SUVs , Reputable customer service
Hertz Thailand$$$MediumInternational and Domestic International brand reliability , Premium vehicle options
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:

Chiang Rai: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Chiang Mai: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Rental Car Center Locations:

Chiang Rai Airport Rental Office and Chiang Mai City Depot

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary shuttle for pick-ups at Chiang Rai Airport and returns in Chiang Mai

Pro Tips for Chiang Rai Airport(CEI) Car Rentals

Booking in advance can save time and reduce the one-way rental fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up the vehicle in one location, such as Chiang Rai, and drop it off at another location like Chiang Mai.

Are there additional charges for one-way rentals between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai?

Yes, most car rental companies impose a one-way fee to cover additional logistics. Prices vary depending on the rental provider.

Can I request a specific vehicle type for my trip?

Absolutely. Rental agencies typically offer various vehicle categories such as compact cars, SUVs, and vans, depending on your needs.

Is there a mileage limit for this route?

Many rentals include unlimited mileage, but it’s recommended to verify the specific terms with your chosen rental company to avoid any unexpected fees.

What documents are required to rent a car for this route?

You will generally need a valid driver's license, an ID or passport, and a credit card to secure the booking. Insurance documents may also be required depending on the company’s policies.

Ready to Book Your Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Adventure?

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