One-Way Car Rental from Koh Samui to Phuket

Home One-way Car Rentals Koh Samui to Phuket

Can I rent a car from Koh Samui to Phuket?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Koh Samui to Phuket. 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 2 year(s).
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, and AMEX.
Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21 and 75 years old.

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 2 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
Form of ID: A valid passport
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, and AMEX.
Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21 and 75 years old.

How much does renting a car from Koh Samui to Phuket 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 SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 37/day

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 173-US$ 185	US$ 150	US$ 219-US$ 256	Solo travelers, couples
SUV	US$ 37-US$ 237	US$ 0-US$ 150	US$ 110-US$ 413	Large groups, long drivers

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

Key Consideration：

One-way rental fees: Some rental companies charge additional fees for one-way rentals. Verify these costs when booking.
Cross-border restrictions: Ensure the rental company allows driving across national or regional boundaries, if applicable.
Advance booking: Booking ahead is crucial, especially during peak travel seasons, to guarantee vehicle availability.
Designated drop-off locations: Confirm the permitted drop-off locations for the rental vehicle, specifically in Phuket.
Fuel policy: Understand the rental company's fuel policy to avoid unforeseen charges.

Smart Planning Tips:

Plan the journey route: Research the most efficient and scenic routes from Koh Samui to Phuket, accounting for travel time.
Schedule wisely: Consider factors like ferry timings and potential traffic delays to allow ample time.
Parking availability: Research parking options at your destination, whether at a hotel or other facilities in Phuket.
Pack essentials: Carry water and snacks, particularly for longer driving segments or remote areas.
Check ferry services: If crossing by ferry from Koh Samui, confirm operating schedules and space availability for vehicles.

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.

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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.

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Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling

Parking

Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Plan refueling stops considering the distance to the drop-off location.

Fuel Cost

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

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Check tire pressure to ensure it is within the recommended range.

Avoid overloading the vehicle to reduce fuel usage.

Koh Samui Parking

Use designated parking areas near popular spots.

Parking fees in central areas range from 20-50 THB per hour.

Avoid parking in unauthorized zones to prevent fines.

Phuket Parking

Parking near beaches might require a fee of 20-100 THB.

Utilize parking lots near shopping centers for convenience.

Be aware of restricted parking zones to avoid penalties.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia: Provides parking locations and prices.

EasyPark: Helps in finding and paying for parking.

SpotHero: Allows pre-booking of parking spaces.

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Koh Samui to Phuket:

Coastal Scenic Route

Scenic route 6-7 hours

This route takes you along the stunning coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and serene beaches.

Surat Thani , Khao Sok National Park , Phang Nga Bay

Nature Trail Route

Nature-focused route 7-8 hours

A tranquil route highlighting lush greenery, waterfalls, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Nakhon Si Thammarat , Khao Sok National Park , Samet Nangshe

Cultural Encounter Route

Cultural and historical route 6-8 hours

Experience Thailand's rich culture through historical sites and local landmarks.

Chaiya , Ban Ta Khun , Takuapa Old Town

Notable Day Trips Along the Way:

Surat Thani City Tour

2 hours from Koh Samui

Enjoy local markets and riverside restaurants in this charming city.

Khao Sok National Park Adventure

4 hours from Koh Samui

Discover beautiful lakes, limestone cliffs, and diverse wildlife.

Phang Nga Bay Exploration

2 hours from Phuket

Explore this iconic bay with its limestone karsts and caves.

Chumphon Coastal Getaway

3 hours from Koh Samui

Relax at pristine beaches and dine on fresh seafood.

Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the Right Vehicle: Opt for a car with enough space, good fuel efficiency, and suited for long distances.

Plan the Stops: Mark fuel stops and dining locations before beginning your trip.

Budget for One-Way Rentals: Check for additional fees for dropping off at a different location.

Research Road Conditions: Be aware of potential roadwork and conditions, particularly during the rainy season.

Download Offline Maps: Save maps to prevent getting lost in areas with poor mobile signals.

Capture the Memories: Bring a camera to document the beautiful sceneries and landmarks.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right car rental company can enhance your travel experience, especially for one-way rentals from Koh Samui to Phuket.

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
Thai Rent A Car	$	High	Moderate	Local expertise , Affordable rental plans , Office near Koh Samui airport
Hertz	$$	Extensive	Wide	International customer service , Convenient location in both Koh Samui and Phuket , Extensive fleet options
Budget Rent A Car	$$	Moderate	Moderate	Competitive rates , Trusted global brand , Flexible return policies
Avis	$$$	Comprehensive	Wide	Exclusive vehicle selection , Frequent airport transfer options , Superior customer support

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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

Key Information About Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

The car rental centers in Koh Samui operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM local time. Ensure you pick up and drop off the vehicle during these hours.

Location at Koh Samui Airport:

Car rental desks are located in the main terminal building near the arrivals area. Look for signage upon arrival.

Shuttle Service:

If off-site, free shuttle buses from the airport to the rental centers operate every 15–20 minutes.

Refueling Options:

Refueling stations are available near both Koh Samui and Phuket airports. It is recommended to fill up before returning your car.

Pro Tips for Koh Samui Airport(USM) Car Rentals

Plan your travel timing with the operating hours of rental centers to avoid any inconvenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return the rental car in Phuket if I pick it up in Koh Samui?

Yes, several rental car services offer one-way rental options allowing you to pick up your car in Koh Samui and return it to a designated location in Phuket, such as the airport or city center. Ensure this option is confirmed at the time of booking.

What documents do I need for one-way car rental?

You will typically need a valid driver's license, an international driving permit (if required), a credit card for the security deposit, and a reservation confirmation for the rental. Always check specific guidelines with the rental provider.

Are there additional fees for one-way rentals on this route?

In most cases, rental companies charge a one-way fee for rentals where the car is dropped off at a different location. This fee is usually included in the total rental cost provided during the booking process, so check this during your reservation to avoid surprises.

Is a ferry trip required for this car rental route?

Yes, since Koh Samui is an island, your car will need to be transported via ferry to the mainland. Many rental companies coordinate this service, or alternatively, you may have to arrange the ferry crossing separately.

What are the fuel options for this route?

It’s recommended to refuel at major gas stations along the route. Some rental companies offer prepaid fuel options, or you may choose to refill the tank before returning the car in Phuket. Designated gas stations near Phuket Airport are available for convenience.

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