By Paula Parker
Motorcycle Hire in Phuket is by far the most affordable way to explore the island.
The range of motorcycles available for hire includes everything from 125cc bikes up to 750cc models.
Scooters and motorcycles are not only inexpensive to rent, but also economical to run, making them a popular choice for many visitors.
The price you pay for hiring a motorbike will depend on the rental location and the season in which you are visiting Phuket.
Generally, the
longer you hire the motorcycle, the cheaper the daily rate becomes. On average,
you can expect to pay between 150 baht and 300 baht per day for a motorcycle
hire in Phuket.

In our early years of travelling to Phuket, I personally
felt much safer hiring a car to get around the island. Then, after we had our children, we needed to hire a car.
In more recent years, as we no longer have the kids travelling with us, we prefer hiring a motorbike. Jeff is an experienced rider, and I would only consider being a pillion passenger, given his experience.
Phuket is not the ideal place to learn how to ride a motorbike.
The island is unfortunately ranked among Thailand's top five provinces in terms of road injuries and deaths each year.
When hiring a motorcycle in Phuket, you might be asked to leave your passport as a security deposit.
Your passport is a vital travel document and legal proof of identity, so never leave your passport with anyone.
If a rental operator insists on keeping your passport, it is best to look for another rental provider.
Choosing a reputable motorcycle rental provider makes a significant difference in your overall experience and safety. That is why we recommend anyone hiring a motorbike or scooter in Phuket to have a look at what Bikago offers.
Bikago is a well-established motorbike rental company in Phuket, known for its high standards and customer service.
Opting to rent through Bikago instead of from a street vendor provides a lot of benefits:
Choosing Bikago for your motorcycle hire in Phuket can help you enjoy the flexibility and affordability of two-wheeled travel while prioritising safety, convenience, and peace of mind throughout your travels.
Before hiring a motorbike in Phuket, ensure you hold a current motorcycle license in your home country, as well as an international driver’s license, and always wear a helmet while riding.
It’s also essential to check that your travel insurance covers you for motorbike accidents, as some policies will not provide coverage if you are not licensed to ride that type or size of bike in your own country.
If you hire a scooter or motorbike from the street vendors, be aware that insurance is not typically included, except for third-party insurance, which only covers personal injury costs up to 50,000 Baht.
This cover does not cover damage to other vehicles, the motorcycle you are hiring, or yourself.
If you damage the motorbike, you will be responsible for paying for repairs.
Similarly, if you
require medical treatment, you will need to cover these expenses unless your
travel insurance policy specifically covers this type of activity.
Another way of getting around Phuket on a motorcycle, without having to hire one, is to catch a motorbike taxi.
Motorcycle taxis are not the safest way of getting around Phuket, but they are handy for short trips and are available day or night. You will find these motorbike taxis on street corners; the operators wear green or red vests.
The price depends on the distance and your bartering skills. Prices start from 20 Baht, but most importantly, ensure that you agree on the price before getting on the bike.
Motorcycle hire and motorbike taxis offer a cheap way to travel around Phuket, which appeals to many visitors. However, it is important to carefully consider your level of experience before choosing this mode of transport.
If you do decide to ride a motorbike or scooter, take time
to familiarise yourself with local traffic rules, road signs and road markings, and remain vigilant, as road
conditions and traffic in Phuket can change quickly.
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