30/10/2024 What you need to know 0

Opt for Spacious Vehicles: For family travel, space is essential. SUVs and minivans provide ample room for luggage, strollers, and any extra gear for beach days or day trips. With comfortable seating and legroom, everyone will have a more relaxed journey.
Consider Extra Features: Vehicles with rear-seat entertainment options, USB ports for charging, and air conditioning controls are great for keeping kids entertained and comfortable on the road.
Test for Accessibility: Choose vehicles with easy access for car seats and booster seats, especially if you’ll be making frequent stops. Sliding doors or larger door openings on minivans make getting in and out easier for families with young kids.

Check Car Seat Availability: Many car rental services in Phuket offer car seats and booster seats for children, but it’s best to reserve these in advance, as availability can vary. Always confirm the seat’s age and condition to ensure safety.
BYO Option for Peace of Mind: If possible, bring your own car seat or booster for added convenience and familiarity, especially if you’re traveling with infants or toddlers.
Check Installation: Make sure the vehicle is compatible with your car seat or booster seat. Some rental agencies will assist with installation or provide instructions for securing seats properly. If you’re unsure, ask a staff member to demonstrate proper installation.

Beaches with Amenities: Head to family-friendly beaches like Kata and Nai Harn, which have restrooms, changing facilities, and nearby eateries. These beaches also have calm waters, making them safer for young children.
Animal Encounters and Nature Walks: Visit Phuket Elephant Sanctuary for an ethical and educational experience with elephants, or explore the Phuket Aquarium, where kids can see local marine life up close. Both are easily accessible by car and provide plenty of parking.
Scenic Drives with Stops: Plan drives with kid-friendly stops along the way. For example, a trip to the Big Buddha on Nakkerd Hill offers beautiful views and photo opportunities, while nearby Kata Viewpoint is a short drive with space for kids to stretch their legs.

Bring Travel Essentials: Have essentials like sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and beach towels in the car. Packing snacks, water bottles, and wet wipes will also make long drives and beach trips more comfortable for kids.
Entertainment on the Go: Keep kids entertained with books, tablets, or small toys. Look for rental vehicles with USB charging ports to keep devices powered for longer trips.
Store Gear in a Centralized Bag: Use a separate bag for items you’ll need on-the-go, such as extra clothes, swimsuits, and first-aid kits. Having everything easily accessible helps with quick stops and unexpected needs.

Schedule Breaks: Traveling with kids can require more frequent stops, so plan breaks for restrooms, snacks, or simply to let kids stretch their legs. National parks, viewpoints, or cafes make ideal rest stops.
Early Morning and Late Afternoon Drives: Phuket can get hot during midday, so schedule longer drives for the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler. This also helps avoid peak traffic times, keeping the drive easier and less stressful.
Limit Screen Time and Maximize Experiences: Though it’s easy to rely on screens, Phuket’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty provide great opportunities for engaging children with the surroundings. Encourage them to spot interesting plants, beaches, or landmarks during the drive.

Be Cautious on Curvy Roads: Phuket has some winding and hilly roads, especially near scenic spots like the Big Buddha and Kata-Karon viewpoints. Drive slowly and cautiously, especially if you’re not used to left-hand driving.
Avoid Rush Hours: Phuket’s main towns can be busy, so avoid peak times (8–10 AM and 4–6 PM) to make your driving experience smoother. Instead, explore during quieter parts of the day.
Keep Contact Information Handy: Have a contact number for roadside assistance in case of any issues. Many rental services offer 24/7 support, so you’re covered if you need help on the road.

Phuket Old Town and Local Markets: Phuket Old Town has a blend of history, street art, and local markets that are perfect for short family-friendly visits. The Sunday Walking Street Market is an excellent spot to introduce kids to local food and crafts.
Bang Pae Waterfall and Gibbon Rehabilitation Center: A short drive from central Phuket, this spot offers a relaxing nature hike to the waterfall. The nearby Gibbon Rehabilitation Center is an educational stop for kids, teaching them about local wildlife.
Phang Nga Bay: While the boat trip to James Bond Island is the main attraction, driving to Phang Nga Bay’s pier offers a scenic route through local villages and limestone landscapes. Kids will enjoy the boat ride and the floating village tour at Koh Panyee.

Book Ahead for Special Requests: For features like GPS or child safety seats, make sure to book in advance to ensure availability. Some rental companies offer family packages that include car seats, GPS, and additional storage space.
Insurance Coverage for Peace of Mind: Full insurance coverage is highly recommended when traveling with family to cover any potential damages or mishaps on the road. This can make a big difference in terms of peace of mind.
Rental Policies on Fuel and Mileage: Check if your rental includes unlimited mileage, as day trips and scenic drives can quickly add up. Also, be aware of the fuel policy—some rentals require a full tank upon return, while others charge based on usage.

Car Rental for Families in Phuket