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Explore the Gateway to Phuket

Drive from Surat Thani to Phuket and experience the ultimate journey through Southern Thailand.

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

Key Consideration:
  • Review one-way fee terms: Many car rental companies charge a one-way fee. Ensure to understand this cost while comparing providers.
  • Verify allowed travel regions: Check if the rental company places any restrictions on crossing province or country boundaries.
  • Plan fuel refilling: Refuel close to Phuket to avoid additional charges for returning with less fuel than required.
  • Booking advance notice: Providing a longer lead time may increase availability and improve pricing.
  • Inspect vehicle condition: Inspect the vehicle and follow up on any pre-existing damages to keep clarity on return policies.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Choose the right vehicle: Select a vehicle that suits the road conditions and amount of luggage for your journey.
  • Plan scenic stops: Incorporate route attractions like Khao Sok National Park for an enriching experience.
  • Travel off-peak hours: Avoid traffic by planning your rental pick-up and return during less busy hours.
  • Familiarize with routes: Understand driving rules and traffic patterns in the Surat Thani and Phuket regions.
  • Get additional insurance: Cover any extra liabilities to keep peace of mind during your drive.
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 before returning to avoid additional charges from the rental company.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Ensure the fuel level matches the level indicated in the rental agreement.

Fuel Cost

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

Fuel Efficiency Tips

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

Check tire pressure before starting your journey to reduce rolling resistance.

Use air conditioning sparingly and rely on natural ventilation when possible.

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Surat Thani Parking

Free parking available at major shopping centers.

Street parking is limited; ensure not to block traffic.

Consider using paid parking lots for overnight stays to ensure safety.

Phuket Parking

Public parking is available near Patong Beach, but it can be crowded.

Many hotels offer parking facilities for guests.

Be cautious about parking in restricted zones to avoid fines.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia: Provides detailed parking information and availability.

JustPark: Allows booking parking spaces in advance.

SpotHero: Offers discounts on parking reservations.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Surat Thani to Phuket:
Surat Thani to Phuket via Phang Nga
Scenic coastal route 5 hours

This route offers breathtaking coastal views and passes through Phang Nga, a town known for its unique limestone karsts.

Phang Nga Bay , Khao Lak , Sarasin Bridge
Surat Thani to Phuket via Ao Leuk
Mountainous scenic route 6 hours

A scenic drive through lush mountains, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring national parks.

Khao Sok National Park , Thap Put , Sarasin Bridge
Direct Surat Thani to Phuket
Fastest direct route 4.5 hours

The most direct route with well-maintained roads, ideal for travelers with time constraints.

Surat Thani , Phuket
Road Trip Planning Tips

Check Route Options: Plan your journey by evaluating routes based on your time and scenic preferences.

Confirm Car Type: Select a vehicle suitable for the terrain and the number of passengers.

Fuel Stops: Identify gas stations along your route and refuel before entering remote stretches.

Account for Travel Time: Factor in adequate breaks and possible traffic delays to stay relaxed during the drive.

Carry a Map: Use a physical map or a GPS device as a backup for phone navigation.

Understand Rental Terms: Review the rental conditions, including the insurance, mileage allowance, and return policies for one-way flexibility.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right company for your trip depends on factors like fees, fleet options, and location coverage. We highlight companies that offer a reliable one-way rental service from Surat Thani to Phuket.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$$HighExcellent
Sixt$$MediumGood
Avis$$$HighExcellent
Budget$MediumGood
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

Car Rental Center Information for Surat Thani and Phuket

Operating Hours:

Most rental counters are open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Confirm specific hours when booking.

Location:

Rental facilities are located near Surat Thani Railway Station and Phuket International Airport terminals.

Shuttle Services:

Complimentary shuttles operate at 15-minute intervals between terminal and rental center.

Customer Assistance:

On-site staff are available to assist with queries including vehicle selection and route planning.

Pro Tips for Surat Thani Airport(URT) Car Rentals

Book in advance during peak seasons to secure the best rates and vehicle options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a rental car at one location (e.g., Surat Thani) and drop it off at a different location (e.g., Phuket). This option is convenient for travelers who plan to end their journey in a different city.

Are there additional fees for one-way car rentals between Surat Thani and Phuket?

Yes, most rental companies charge a one-way fee to cover the cost of returning the vehicle to its original location. The exact fee varies depending on the rental company and availability.

How far is the distance between Surat Thani and Phuket?

The distance between Surat Thani and Phuket is approximately 280 kilometers (around 174 miles), taking an average of 4-5 hours to complete the journey by car.

Can I choose the car model for a one-way rental?

Most rental companies allow you to select a specific car category but not always the exact model. It's recommended to confirm availability with the rental agency during booking.

What documents are required for renting a car in Thailand?

To rent a car in Thailand, you typically need a valid driver's license (an international driver's permit may be required for foreign visitors), a passport, and a credit card for the security deposit.

Ready to Book Your Surat Thani to Phuket Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ