The quintessential visuals that remind you of traveling in Thailand often include elephant pants, street food stalls, and Chang Beer shirts. Still, one can't forget the hundreds of motorbikes weaving through congested streets.
Scooters in Thailand (often used interchangeably with motorbikes) are the preferred mode of transportation for most locals and some gutsy travelers. For many visitors, renting a motorbike in Thailand adds to the authentic experience.
Motorbikes are narrow, quick, and easy to squeeze into the gaps between cars in gridlocked traffic. But the sheer number of motorbikes on the road can make those points moot because it gets incredibly crowded during rush hour. In Thailand, there are approximately 22 million registered motorbikes on the streets.
Seeing twice as many motorbikes on the road as cars may tempt travelers who want to chase the local experience. While renting a motorbike in Thailand is popular, remember to take precautions. This article covers the Thailand motorbike rental experience and how you, as a traveler, can protect yourself and drive responsibly.
Can You Rent a Scooter in Thailand?
Yes, travelers from anywhere in the world can rent a scooter while visiting Thailand, but with one important caveat. You must possess a valid international license. An international license lets you rent from a reputable scooter company. It will help keep you out of trouble if the police pull you over.
Unfortunately, many online sources claim that renting a motorbike without a license is acceptable. These sources claim that if you get caught without a license, most officers will accept a bribe and allow you to continue on your way.
This mentality that it's not illegal unless you get caught can potentially lead to some serious consequences. As a traveler, you don't have the same rights as citizens, and you may forfeit your right to return or end up with a huge fine.
Also, taking the chance that an officer will accept a bribe might insult them and land you in even bigger trouble. It's simply not worth the risk.
How To Get an International License
With a little effort and pre-planning, getting an international license is relatively easy before your trip. Suppose you live in the United States and have a valid driver's license. In that case, you can contact your local AAA office, and they'll get you approved for an international license.
You'll need to submit a photocopy of your license and a one-time fee of about $20, and they'll mail the international license back to your address. It comes as a paper booklet and is valid for six months.
The good news for backpackers is that this license is valid for any international country that requires it! You can continue using the same booklet if you plan to travel to different countries near Thailand. Keep it safe in a waterproof bag, and always carry it with you when operating a vehicle.
Tips for Renting a Scooter in Thailand
You've already booked your flights to Thailand and mapped out your journey. Getting there is easy, but ground transportation will be a unique experience when you arrive.
Getting around by taxi or tuk-tuk is relatively easy in large cities. You'll cruise through Bangkok or check out Chiang Mai night markets by Bolt, a ride-hailing app. However, the transportation options become sparse when you explore less developed places.
Although Koh Samui is one of Thailand's most visited islands, cabs are expensive and hard to get. The most common transportation method travelers use is the scooter. Many tourists ride alongside Thai locals.
Research Rentals Before You Arrive
Working with the right company will elevate your motorbike rental experience in Thailand. Like buying the proper insurance, you often only realize how important it is once something goes wrong.
Research top-rated companies on Google or ask travelers in a Thailand Facebook group about personal experiences with rental companies.
A reputable renter will ask you about your driver's license and disclose any rental fees and potential repair charges upfront. They will also provide a contract that clearly outlines all terms and conditions of your rental agreement.
Be wary of a company that doesn't use a contract; they could be attempting to scam you for more money than you agreed on.
Some red flags to look out for when renting a motorbike in Thailand:
- They ask to hold onto your passport as collateral.
- They will let you rent without an international license.
- They don't provide a contract for you.
- They aren't available by phone or text if you have questions.
While exploring Koh Samui, I rented a scooter through ID Scooter Rental. The owner, Ian, was a friendly, down-to-earth guy who helped me figure out the bike's controls instead of leaving me to figure it out alone.
Editor's note: Travelers planning to explore Phuket by motorbike may prefer to base themselves in Patong. Andakira Hotel Phuket is located near Patong Beach, with access to the island's beaches, viewpoints, and other attractions.
Practice Your Driving Skills Before You Get on the Road
The first time I rode a scooter was the first time I rented one. I found a rental agency (ID Scoot Rental, the one mentioned above) that would drop off the scooter at my apartment in Koh Samui. When I told Ian I didn't know how to ride it, he said, "Don't worry, it's like riding a bike!"
Admittedly, it was not like riding a bicycle, and I had a steep learning curve. The throttle was too powerful, and the bike was so heavy that I struggled to get the kickstand in place. My turns were jerky and awkward.
If you're not confident in your riding, find a safe place to practice for a few hours before you get on the road. I was lucky enough to stay in an apartment complex with a huge parking lot, where I spent hours driving laps.
Expect the Unexpected
Driving in Southeast Asia is a bit like finding yourself in the middle of another society on another planet. If you're from a Western country like the United States, where driving rules are more or less abided by, be prepared for a totally different philosophy on driving.
General road etiquette (especially among motorbike drivers) is that driving rules are guidelines, not exact procedures.
At any given time, there will be motorbikers whizzing past and driving alongside you. You will likely need to compete with other drivers because some intersections don't have lights.
Also, if you're an American like me, be prepared to drive on the left side of the road, which alone is a harrowing event.
If you are easily perturbed, consider spending extra time on step #2 and practice driving until you're confident. The last thing you want while juggling these external factors is to forget which handlebar controls the brakes and which controls the throttle.
Despite the chaos, most Thai drivers are incredibly kind and will stop to help if something goes wrong.
Prepare for the Worst-Case Scenario
Motorbikes are convenient, (usually) cheap, and make it super easy to trim time off your commute. Residents and visitors use scooters as their preferred transportation method for getting around Thailand. But let's not overlook one crucial detail.
Motorbikes can be really, really dangerous. You should always trust your judgment before getting onto a motorbike, gauging your comfort level with driving and your abilities. There is absolutely no shame in returning your bike early if you decide riding isn't for you.
It's important to be confident while driving, but be prepared for the worst-case scenario. I was highly confident after driving a motorbike for a few days in Koh Samui. I looped around the island and cruised along busy roads like it was part of my routine.
And then, one day, I took too sharp a turn and crashed in the middle of a busy street. I was lucky to walk away with a scratch and a $20 repair on the bike, but that situation could have ended worse.
Regardless of how others drive around you, take extra precautions to protect yourself and the bike. Looking both ways, driving slowly, pulling over to let a crowd pass, and always wearing a helmet all go a long way when renting a motorbike in Thailand.
Any die-hard motorcyclist will stand by their passion and say riding is like flying without leaving the ground. Similarly, once you get the hang of riding a motorbike and cruising among other drivers, the feeling is hard to describe.
You might find yourself in the center of a hundred other motorists and feel like a surfer who just caught the perfect wave. The feeling falls somewhere between exhilarating and terrifying.
Some veteran travelers will tell you that renting a motorbike is the only proper way to get a vibe for Thai life, and there may be some truth to that. Authentic experiences start by mirroring the locals, which gives you a deeper understanding of how Thai people live.
You'll also gain a new appreciation for the rules of the road. If you have an adventurous spirit, try traveling around Thailand on two wheels.
