Rent a car in Samui
.webp)
Renting a car on Samui is a clever choice for anyone eager to dive into the island’s rich mix of experiences. The roads here are well-kept, and the key attractions are spread out—from tranquil northern bays to the bustling southern beaches.
Having a car means you’re not stuck relying on public transport timetables, and you can effortlessly reach spots that tuk-tuks and taxis rarely bother with, like the picturesque Namuang waterfalls or lookout points with sweeping views of the Gulf of Siam.
Why renting a car on Samui is a win
The top perk of renting a car on Samui is the freedom to shape your trip however you like. In a single day, you could swim in Chaweng’s sparkling waters, savor local flavors at Bophut’s fish eateries, and catch a peaceful sunset at Lipa Noi beach—all without shelling out for multiple rides or wasting time waiting around.
On top of that, a rental car on Samui saves you energy and keeps things comfy in the tropical heat. With air conditioning and room for your gear, you’re free from stress.
How much does it cost to rent a car on Samui?
The average rental price on the island starts at 1,000 baht a day, with a typical rate of 1,400 baht daily. What affects the cost of renting a car on Samui? Here’s the rundown:
- Car type. Newer models, bigger interiors, or punchier engines come with a higher price tag.
- Season. Peak times (December to February, July to August) jack up rates by 20-40% due to demand. Rainy months (September to November) often bring cheaper deals.
- Rental duration. Longer rentals (starting at 7 days) usually mean discounts—like 1,300 baht a day for 5 days, or 1,000 baht for 14.
- Insurance. Full coverage (Super CDW) costs more than basic liability but cuts down on risks if something gets scratched.
- Extras. Things like child seats, an extra driver on the contract, hotel delivery, or permission to drive off-island add to the bill.
It’s a good idea to book your car on Samui ahead of time, especially during busy seasons.
What’s required to rent a car on Samui?
To rent a car on Samui, you need to be at least 18 with a year of driving experience. That said, drivers over 21 with two years on the road get the widest pick of cars.
You’ll need these documents to seal the deal:
- A valid passport—it’s your ticket to signing the contract and proving who you are.
- A national driver’s license from your home country (Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, etc.), good for the rental dates.
Technically, Thailand doesn’t demand an international driver’s license (IDL), but in real life, it can matter. Local cops or insurance folks might ask for one during a stop or a claim. To dodge any hiccups or extra costs, grabbing an IDL beforehand is a smart move.
Paying for the rental and deposit
Renting a car on Samui always comes with a deposit—skipping it isn’t an option in Thailand.
Russian bank cards, like MIR, might not work for direct payments. No worries, though—you’ve got alternatives:
- Cash (Thai baht). The simplest, most reliable way to handle the deposit.
- Crypto or stablecoins. Some cars accept digital currencies.
- Foreign bank cards. Visa or Mastercard (credit or debit) are taken almost everywhere.
To book, you’ll pay an advance—15-20% of the total rental cost. The rest is due when you pick up the car on Samui. Payment methods and deposit rules vary by car: some take cash only, others crypto, and a few let you choose from the full list. Check the car’s details for the specifics.
Renting a car for a Samui trip
The car selection on Samui itself is a bit slim. Want more options? Rent from the mainland—like Krabi, where there’s a bigger lineup—and add the island-travel feature to your booking. It usually costs around 5,000-7,000 baht for the whole rental period.
