How to Travel Around Phuket

You've arrived safely in Phuket and received word from the local government that your Covid test results were negative, allowing you to freely travel around the island. Getting around Phuket was relatively easy before Covid, and it isn't much different now despite the stiffer laws. There are still many public transportation options for you to choose from, including tuk-tuks, songthaews, and taxis, as well as vehicle rentals. So if you’re looking to explore the island on your own, below are the many transportation options available:

Songthaews are small passenger trucks and a popular and cost-effective means of transportation in Phuket. You can find them at bus stops in the downtown area or at popular beach towns. Before boarding, make sure you discuss (and haggle) the fare to your location with the driver, as well as whether the rate is priced by group or per person. Prices will vary depending on the distance, weather, and time. 

If you’re traveling within the downtown area, the fare would be around THB50. If you go to distant locations, it might cost around THB200-600 for 2 persons.

For travels outside of Phuket town with lower fares and if you're not in a hurry, a Potong bus is a good option. They are non-air-conditioned local buses that run by most of the major beach resorts on the west coast such as Patong, Surin, and Kamala. Because it is a public form of transportation, there will be other passengers on board, which is why the fee is reasonable, usually ranging from THB35 to THB50 per person. Again, just make sure to ask the driver how much the actual fee to your location is before boarding!

Renting a car is another alternative and by far the most convenient. You can explore the island at your leisure and on your own terms. It's also worth noting that you should check to see if the car you're renting is SHA Plus certified. There are many car rental services on the island, or you may enquire with your hotel to see if they offer this option. However, if you want a quick and easy way to rent a car before arriving in Phuket, you always have Klook!

Klook provides a variety of vehicle options with 1.2/1.5/1.8 engines ranging from a 4-seater sedan to a 7-seater SUV, as well as MT/AT cars. You can choose whichever vehicle fits your group. Just remember to bring the essential rental requirements, such as your Klook voucher, valid driver's license from the origin country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP), which you can obtain online in your home country.

Motorbikes are another popular alternative for travelers who want to rent one for a day or two. It is a convenient way to get around the island and is ideal for avoiding traffic. But, like all motorcycles, it has its risks, so be sure you're comfortable navigating the streets on two wheels before renting! Renting a motorcycle starts at THB150 per day.

If you don’t like the hassle of trying to navigate the busy streets of Phuket on your own, you can conveniently rent a SHA+ certified car with a local experienced driver. This option gives you the opportunity to craft your own itinerary and explore each destination at your own pace.

You can book your private charter through Klook and choose from either a 4 or 8-hour charter to a 2-day or 3-day charter. You also have the option to select the vehicle that would fit your party, from a 3-seater sedan to a 9-seater Toyota commuter.

You can also hail cabs and motorbike taxis on the streets of Phuket, particularly in tourist areas such as Phuket town, Patong, and other major resorts. If you're in a hurry and only need to go a short distance, you can hail the motorbike, where the drivers can easily skim past the traffic. Booking through the Grab app is also very convenient and is a go-to option for most tourists.

You can also pre-book a SHA+ certified private city transfer on Klook if you wish to travel with ease and peace of mind. These vehicles carefully adhere to sanitary procedures to ensure that passengers are safe and in excellent hands when traveling to neighboring destinations in Phuket.

Now that you know how to be an expert island traveler, make sure you check out all the exciting island activities you can do while in Phuket!