Phuket is perfect for road trips, but small oversights can become expensive. Here are the most common pitfalls—and quick fixes.
- Driving without the right license/IDP
- Mistake: Using only a home license.
- Fix: Carry your national license plus a 1949 International Driving Permit (IDP). For motorbikes, you need a motorcycle endorsement.
- Skimming the insurance fine print
- Mistake: Assuming “full coverage” means zero risk.
- Fix: Check your excess (deductible), what’s excluded (glass/tires/undercarriage), and whether SCDW can reduce the excess.
- Not adding additional drivers
- Mistake: Letting a friend drive “just a bit.”
- Fix: List all drivers on the contract—otherwise coverage may be void.
- Skipping a thorough photo/video inspection
- Mistake: No time-stamped photos at pick‑up/return.
- Fix: Photograph all sides, wheels, interior, roof, and under-bumper edges; keep the pics until your deposit is released.
- Putting in the wrong fuel
- Mistake: Confusing Gasohol 95/91, E20, diesel.
- Fix: Read the fuel cap and contract; keep the fuel receipt. When unsure, ask the attendant.
- Taking the car where it’s not allowed
- Mistake: Off-road, deep-flood roads, or ferries without permission.
- Fix: Confirm geographic limits; avoid floodwater—hydrolock isn’t covered.
- Underestimating left-side driving and hills
- Mistake: Speeding on wet serpentines and roundabouts.
- Fix: Take it easy for the first day; use engine braking on descents and keep safe distance from motorbikes.
- Parking mistakes
- Mistake: Skipping ticket validation at malls or leaving valuables visible.
- Fix: Validate parking (e.g., supermarket/cinema), use covered decks, and keep the ticket dry.
- Deposit and payment surprises
- Mistake: Agreeing to Dynamic Currency Conversion or not asking about hold release times.
- Fix: Pay and authorize deposits in THB, ask about any card fees, and get deposit/return receipts.
- Poor return hygiene
- Mistake: Late return, missing fuel, or excessive dirt/sand.
- Fix: Follow the fuel policy, allow time for traffic, and do a quick clean if needed.
Keep copies of your documents (license, IDP, contract) and the rental’s emergency number handy.
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