Arriving at Koh Samui Airport and wanting to explore the island at your own pace is a great idea. Renting a car offers freedom, but it’s good to know what to expect with the pickup process, potential costs, and the specifics of driving in Thailand. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get on the road with confidence.
Rental car desks are generally located within the main arrival hall at Koh Samui Airport. You’ll typically find a selection of companies offering services, including well-known international providers and local Thai agencies. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Ground Transportation’ after you collect your luggage. Some companies also operate shuttle services to off-airport pickup locations, which might be a short drive away.
Koh Samui’s roads range from well-maintained main routes to smaller, sometimes steeper, roads leading to beaches and viewpoints. Here are some popular vehicle types you’ll likely find available:
| Economy | $20 - $30 / day |
| Compact | $25 - $35 / day |
| Mid-Size | $35 - $45 / day |
| SUV (Small) | $45 - $60 / day |
| SUV (Standard) | $60 - $80 / day |
| Luxury | $80+ / day |
Prices change by season and availability.
For exploring the island’s hills, a small SUV can be a good choice. If you plan to stick to the main roads, an economy or compact car will be perfectly suitable.
Generally, you’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended, and sometimes required, especially if your license isn’t in English. The minimum age to rent a car is usually 21, but some companies may have a higher age requirement, and drivers under 25 may face additional fees. Be prepared to present your passport, driver’s license (and IDP if applicable), and a major credit card in the renter’s name. Deposits are standard, and the amount will be held on your credit card for the duration of the rental. Payment methods are typically major credit cards; debit cards are often not accepted for the deposit.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers the vehicle if it’s stolen. Often, these come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for paying in the event of damage or theft. You can reduce this excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the daily rental cost. Carefully review the terms of each insurance option and ask the rental agent to explain the excess amount and what is *not* covered. Consider whether your existing travel insurance or credit card benefits already provide some level of coverage.
Traffic in Koh Samui is generally manageable, but be aware that driving is on the left side of the road. Speed limits are typically posted in kilometers per hour. Toll roads are not common on Koh Samui itself, but you might encounter them on the mainland if you plan to travel further afield. Parking is usually available at hotels and popular attractions, but it can sometimes be limited, especially during peak season. Be mindful of motorbikes, which are very common, and always drive defensively.
An IDP is often recommended, and sometimes required, especially if your driver’s license isn’t in English. Check the specific requirements of the rental company.
Major credit cards are typically required for both payment and the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted for the deposit.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself, but usually has an 'excess' amount you're still responsible for.
It’s wise to have some level of insurance coverage. Review your existing travel insurance and credit card benefits, and consider the rental company’s options.
Driving is on the left side of the road in Thailand.
Main roads are generally well-maintained, but some roads to beaches and viewpoints can be smaller and steeper.
The minimum age is usually 21, but some companies may require you to be older, and there may be extra fees for younger drivers.
Carefully inspect the car for any existing damage *before* you leave the rental lot, and document it with photos or on the rental agreement.
A deposit amount will be held on your credit card for the duration of the rental and released when the car is returned undamaged.
Parking is generally available at hotels and attractions, but can be limited during peak season.
Toll roads are not common on Koh Samui itself, but you might encounter them elsewhere in Thailand.
Contact the rental company immediately and the local police. Get a police report for insurance purposes.