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Chiang Mai It is a mandatory stop for most travelers, especially among those who want to experience the more authentic and traditional Thailand. The city is more than 700 km from the capital, Bangkok, and it is located in one of the most beautiful areas of the country, in northern Thailand. You can get to Chiang Mai by Direct flight from Bangkok and also through buses and trains. However, one of the more special ways to get there is by renting a car, although it must be remembered that it is a long journey of an entire day (you can split the journey by stopping halfway). Those who choose to get to Chiang Mai by flight or other transportation solution can also rent a car in the city itself and enjoy complete independence.
Car rental in Chiang Mai, the second largest city in Thailand, is relatively common. There are quite a few travelers, and people of all ages, who choose to travel around the city and get from one point to another using the vehicle they rented, instead of depending on public transportation or other drivers. A rented car in Chiang Mai will allow you, unlike a bus, taxis or other means of transportation, to get anywhere you want and at any time convenient for you. You can visit the impressive temples of Chiang Mai, see the remains of the old city up close, go out to The vibrant markets And also to walk in the beautiful natural areas that are near the city. This way, apart from accumulating experiences and pleasures, you can also save money and fully absorb the city.
Car rental is one of the cheapest ways to get around in Chiang Mai. The prices are determined according to the model of the vehicle and also the date when it is rented, when prices may increase during the tourist season, between October and April, a season that is at its peak from the end of December to February. Prices range from 350 baht per day to 1,500 baht per day and a market survey is definitely a good way to find the affordable prices.
When renting a car in Chiang Mai, several documents are required. First, a copy of your passport (it is important to carry the passport itself wherever you go and especially while driving) and also an international driver's license. An insurance policy is very important and it is recommended not to neglect the matter. Almost all rental companies in Chiang Mai provide basic insurance, which covers accidents and theft. There are companies that also offer coverage in cases of collision and few provide third party coverage. If another vehicle collided with your vehicle, it is very important to notify the rental company immediately after the incident, and they will send you a mechanic to repair the damage. If you repair it yourself, it is very possible that you will not receive a refund for the repair. As for returning the vehicle, the vehicle must usually be returned to the same point from which it was rented, except in special cases. When returning the vehicle, a representative from the company will inspect the vehicle from all directions and make sure that it was not damaged during the rental period. It is very useful to take a picture of the vehicle when you receive it and also when you return it.
Most of the rental cars in Chiang Mai come with airbags and a GPS system. The only thing that is not included in the rental price is the payment for fuel. Make sure to return the vehicle with a full tank of fuel (exactly as you received it) and there is no limit to the number of kilometers you can drive. There are many options to choose from when it comes to car models and almost every car rental company has economical cars that are suitable for a couple or a family. The rates, in this case, will be low and will reach 550 baht per day on average. Other options include compact cars, which are good for families or groups of up to 4 people, and SUVs. All this depends, of course, on the size of the group and also on the budget.
Throughout the city, as befits a large and very touristic city, you can find representatives of well-known rental companies as well as those that are less so. It is usually recommended to contact well-known companies, but since this is a very touristic city, there is no obstacle to contact the lesser ones, or those that are not international. A market survey and price comparison will help find the right vehicle and the profitable deal depending on the number of rental days.
It is highly recommended to learn a little about the safety rules and the local traffic laws. Driving in Chiang Mai, as is the case everywhere else in Thailand, is on the left side of the road. In regards to the speed limits: on the streets themselves and in the suburbs the permitted speed varies between 50 and 60 km/h and on the highways between 90 and 120 km/h.
It is highly recommended to book a car in advance, at least a week before arrival. Booking in advance is an opportunity to find profitable deals and a suitable car, especially when it comes to in a family with children. Many car rental companies have offices at Chiang Mai International Airport, especially the larger ones. The type and model of the car you choose will depend not only on the number of people expected to travel in it (both the passengers and the driver) but also on everything related to luggage storage. Economical and compact cars usually do not have a very large space in the trunk. The space will usually be enough for two suitcases maximum. If you plan to take more luggage, it is recommended to order a larger vehicle.
Write it down and don't forget: the car you rent must not be taken outside the borders of Thailand. In the event that more than one person is planned to drive it, all drivers must provide the required documents, such as an international driver's license and passport. The policy of canceling the car rental deal varies between the companies. It is highly recommended to read the fine print and the terms of the agreement to avoid unpleasant surprises. Most companies accept, as payment, a credit card if there is no cash. The accepted ones are American Express, Visa and Master Card.