Driving from B'kok to Phuket - Soliciting relevant advice here.

[wefinesse]

Hi All, I am planning to drive from B'kok to Phuket. My first time driving in Thailand. Gone thru many posts including pinned Driving In Thailand. _{I believe many of the forum members in Thailand for some time may have done this and hoping to get their advice/s here, thankfully, to avoid any potential pitfalls. I will be either renting or buying a car in B'kok. Looking at a AT, since my wife also can do some driving and feel an AT is less stressful than a manual shift in this situation. Can we get some advise like speed/s to maintain, resting places, total time to cover the distance, any unexpected obstacle to watch out like animals crossing road, Gas quality and where and how to refill, roadside service/s in case of a flat tire/s, any cop probs etc. etc. from members who went thru the drill already. My experience in driving is worldwide, long distance driving being mostly in continental Europe and Americas. Extremely knowledgeable in auto technology and driving skills.} I thank all for any/all diligent / pertinent response/s.

[VocalNeal]

About 900 kms. Not that far. It takes about 9 1/2 hours even in a truck at the more or less the speed limits, more if you have long lunch etc. Nothing specific to watch out for except maybe the Surat Thani turn off to Phuket which is under an overpass, fuel is everywhere.

[Bagwain]

Done it many times and only got pull up around Hua Hin on the way back but everyone was pulled up for a general stop. I think they where looking for someone. (Didn't ask for license or passport) The only thing about driving anywhere in LOS is you need eyes in your arse and the back of your head. I like driving but it is quite tiring in LOS due to keeping a watchful eye. The roads are good except for a fair part of the way the left lanes are shit. So trucks and buses tend to be in the right lanes & speeding. Watch out for the typical Thai motorbikes coming out from side roads and not looking left for oncoming traffic. (I am sure they teach them that here) 55555. Safe driving dude!!

[Ace of Pop]

Avoid the LPG/Diesel Stations further south,even the Names are blessed with dirty toilets and shitty shops. Go for Benzine/Solar only ones.. Dont know why this is , but its my regular run,so believe me.Avoid week ends if poss.

[Jasun]

I think you'll find it's not much different than driving in Europe, just stick to the left. There are plenty of petrol stations along the way, a bit less reliable of staying open late once you get a few hours south. If you're using a station card, ie a Shell Card, not many stations accept them outside of Bangkok and the major cities, but paying with cash or regular card you'll be fine.

Expect to have a few encounters with the BIB along the way, there aren't always speed signs, and you'll attract a little more attention as a farang. Keep in mind you have to pay any fines in the place you got booked, if you get fined in Surat Thani, you have to pay it in Surat Thani. Better yet, keep some cash in the car to pay your fines on the spot where possible.

Chumpon is about at the half way point (4-1/2 hours), and it makes a good rest stop, as does Prachuap. If you're after a more scenic trip, take the route via Ranong along the coast, but it'll add an extra hour or so to the trip.

A tip on renting, most hire companies will bring the car out to you, and pick back up for little or no extra fee.

[BSJ]

The main highway is a class 3 rd. Plus there is the usual selection of maniac Thai's on bikes, in pick-ups, cars, vans, 10 wheel truck and semi's. So, situation normal!

[PiPiFFS]

As already mentioned hang a right at Chumphon and go across the mountains there via the Kra of Isthmus and then down along the coast. It may add a couple of hours to the journey but it is a stunning drive. Just after bang Sapan there is a very nice service stop with good food and gas. The secret to safe driving in Thailand is never be in a rush to get anywhere.

Have a safe trip

[fredob43]

No one has mentioned that Thai driver's are some of the worst in the world. They are at best crazy. Undertaking is allowed so keep an eye on you left wing mirror and most of all go at a pace that you can stop safely at.

Get a good map and plan your journey make plenty of stop's. Even an overnight one half way is not a bad idea.

9/10 hour driving in Thailand is like 16+ any ware else.

If a Thai flashes his light's at you it doesn't mean you have the right to go it means I'm coming through so stop or you will have problem's. They also jump T/Light's so be careful of that as well.

Be careful and have a good trip.

Best of luck.

[wefinesse]

About 900 kms. Not that far. It takes about 9 1/2 hours even in a truck at the more or less the speed limits, more if you have long lunch etc. Nothing specific to watch out for except maybe the Surat Thani turn off to Phuket which is under an overpass, fuel is everywhere.

Thanx. 900Kms. Will have to buy/rent a vehicle in B'kok, able to make it first. 91/2 Hrs. means, have to drive over 100km/hr for some distance too. So wheel bearings don't give up due to heat would be a major factor, as i am planning to drive an inexpensive car, if I purchased one. Right now looking at a BMW E30, Merc W123, Toyota Corona, all just above 10gs. Will keep you guys informed of all the moves.

[wefinesse]

Done it many times and only got pull up around Hua Hin on the way back but everyone was pulled up for a general stop. I think they where looking for someone. (Didn't ask for license or passport) The only thing about driving anywhere in LOS is you need eyes in your arse and the back of your head. I like driving but it is quite tiring in LOS due to keeping a watchful eye. The roads are good except for a fair part of the way the left lanes are shit. So trucks and buses tend to be in the right lanes & speeding. Watch out for the typical Thai motorbikes coming out from side roads and not looking left for oncoming traffic. (I am sure they teach them that here) 55555. Safe driving dude!!

Thanx MG. Content well noted. So to say, multi lanes all the way??? I drove from S'pore to KL and quite a distance had single lane. So I was expecting same here. Same when driving thru Sweden to Oslo, lots of single lane stretches. Anyways, will keep the eyes open for those Bikers.

[wefinesse]

Avoid the LPG/Diesel Stations further south,even the Names are blessed with dirty toilets and shitty shops. Go for Benzine/Solar only ones.. Dont know why this is , but its my regular run,so believe me.Avoid week ends if poss.

Thanx, Got u. Stick to Benzine/Solar stations, avoid weekends. Good advice, I believe. Hate the dirty toilets.

[wefinesse]

I think you'll find it's not much different than driving in Europe, just stick to the left. There are plenty of petrol stations along the way, a bit less reliable of staying open late once you get a few hours south. If you're using a station card, ie a Shell Card, not many stations accept them outside of Bangkok and the major cities, but paying with cash or regular card you'll be fine.

Expect to have a few encounters with the BIB along the way, there aren't always speed signs, and you'll attract a little more attention as a farang. Keep in mind you have to pay any fines in the place you got booked, if you get fined in Surat Thani, you have to pay it in Surat Thani. Better yet, keep some cash in the car to pay your fines on the spot where possible.

Chumpon is about at the half way point (4-1/2 hours), and it makes a good rest stop, as does Prachuap. If you're after a more scenic trip, take the route via Ranong along the coast, but it'll add an extra hour or so to the trip.

A tip on renting, most hire companies will bring the car out to you, and pick back up for little or no extra fee.

Thanx. Should be no worries, if comparable to European standards. Definitely sticking to left as I am in Japan now for some time. Pay with cash or regular card is cool with me. Will try not pay any fines, if at all possible. Detour via Ranong - will look into. Any rental company you may recommend in B'kok, if I may ask? Will keep you guys posted.

[stevenl]

Done it many times and only got pull up around Hua Hin on the way back but everyone was pulled up for a general stop. I think they where looking for someone. (Didn't ask for license or passport) The only thing about driving anywhere in LOS is you need eyes in your arse and the back of your head. I like driving but it is quite tiring in LOS due to keeping a watchful eye. The roads are good except for a fair part of the way the left lanes are shit. So trucks and buses tend to be in the right lanes & speeding. Watch out for the typical Thai motorbikes coming out from side roads and not looking left for oncoming traffic. (I am sure they teach them that here) 55555. Safe driving dude!!

Thanx MG. Content well noted. So to say, multi lanes all the way??? I drove from S'pore to KL and quite a distance had single lane. So I was expecting same here. Same when driving thru Sweden to Oslo, lots of single lane stretches. Anyways, will keep the eyes open for those Bikers.

Yes, multilane all the way, except for the latter part from the turn to Phuket just past Surat Thani. And even there a big part is multilane these days.

And no worries, all gas stations are fine, and I have never been asked for money from any police officer on this route.

[wefinesse]

As already mentioned hang a right at Chumphon and go across the mountains there via the Kra of Isthmus and then down along the coast. It may add a couple of hours to the journey but it is a stunning drive. Just after bang Sapan there is a very nice service stop with good food and gas. The secret to safe driving in Thailand is never be in a rush to get anywhere.

Have a safe trip

Thanx again. Will study of the detour in details. Will also remember SS after Bang Sapan. Got ya - never be in a RUSH.

[wefinesse]

No one has mentioned that Thai driver's are some of the worst in the world. They are at best crazy. Undertaking is allowed so keep an eye on you left wing mirror and most of all go at a pace that you can stop safely at.

Get a good map and plan your journey make plenty of stop's. Even an overnight one half way is not a bad idea.

9/10 hour driving in Thailand is like 16+ any ware else.

If a Thai flashes his light's at you it doesn't mean you have the right to go it means I'm coming through so stop or you will have problem's. They also jump T/Light's so be careful of that as well.

Be careful and have a good trip.

Best of luck.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. So LOCO drivers in LOS. Will keep an eye on my left mirror for overtaking from left - right? I am planning of buying a decent English Car Navi, in B'kok instead of maps.

Hope they have those. I am trying to make it in one day - though, now, may be book a room halfway. If so what is the best place would be???? I got that flash thing engraved - as I do same here in Japan, not jump the T/Ls.

[dominique355]

I can only agree that Chumphon is a good place for an over-night stay. There is a nice Novotel, a bit outside (South) of the city, but great location on the beach, cheap rooms and decent food.

Then by all means take the scenic road along the Andaman sea, through hills and forests and if that is too long to Phuket, stay an additional night in Kao Lak. Many great resorts on the beach there. After Kao Lak, it's just a short trip to Phuket.

[wefinesse]

The main highway is a class 3 rd. Plus there is the usual selection of maniac Thai's on bikes, in pick-ups, cars, vans, 10 wheel truck and semi's. So, situation normal!

Thanx. Content well noted.

[stevenl]

No one has mentioned that Thai driver's are some of the worst in the world. They are at best crazy. Undertaking is allowed so keep an eye on you left wing mirror and most of all go at a pace that you can stop safely at.

Get a good map and plan your journey make plenty of stop's. Even an overnight one half way is not a bad idea.

9/10 hour driving in Thailand is like 16+ any ware else.

If a Thai flashes his light's at you it doesn't mean you have the right to go it means I'm coming through so stop or you will have problem's. They also jump T/Light's so be careful of that as well.

Be careful and have a good trip.

Best of luck.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. So LOCO drivers in LOS. Will keep an eye on my left mirror for overtaking from left - right? I am planning of buying a decent English Car Navi, in B'kok instead of maps.

Hope they have those. I am trying to make it in one day - though, now, may be book a room halfway. If so what is the best place would be???? I got that flash thing engraved - as I do same here in Japan, not jump the T/Ls.

Quite a few cars drive on the right, since the roadsurface there is better. Overtaking on the left is common and accepted.

Sent from my D90W using Thaivisa Connect Thailand mobile app

[fredob43]

No one has mentioned that Thai driver's are some of the worst in the world. They are at best crazy. Undertaking is allowed so keep an eye on you left wing mirror and most of all go at a pace that you can stop safely at.

Get a good map and plan your journey make plenty of stop's. Even an overnight one half way is not a bad idea.

9/10 hour driving in Thailand is like 16+ any ware else.

If a Thai flashes his light's at you it doesn't mean you have the right to go it means I'm coming through so stop or you will have problem's. They also jump T/Light's so be careful of that as well.

Be careful and have a good trip.

Best of luck.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. So LOCO drivers in LOS. Will keep an eye on my left mirror for overtaking from left - right? I am planning of buying a decent English Car Navi, in B'kok instead of maps.

Hope they have those. I am trying to make it in one day - though, now, may be book a room halfway. If so what is the best place would be???? I got that flash thing engraved - as I do same here in Japan, not jump the T/Ls.

Good idea to get a S/Nav as getting out of BKK can be a nightmare suggest you get a good map for a few 100bt as well, S/Nav's can tell lies.

Tip if it's the first time you've driven here don't try and do it in 1 day it will knacker you the 9/10 hour's can turn into 14/15 if there is a problem on the road.

As suggested by other's take the scenic route will stick up to 3+ hour's on the time but well worth it.

Where to stay is up to you when you've had enough just ask the S/Nav for local hotel's there are thousand's every ware.

Oh other thing's they Thai do some time's put their Hazard light's on telling you they are going strait on don't ask it's a Thai thing. They will also come up your inside and it there is more that an inch between you and the car ahead of you try and get into the space just back off let them do it.

Don't travel at night unless you have to, M/C even car's will use your hard shoulder coming towards you without light's happens all the time and trust me you as a non Thai will get the blame, don't travel in the outside lane to long as you will get a fine if there is room to come over do it even for only a Min: or two it's all to do with car's doing U/Turn's through the central reservation.

Slowly slowly until you get the hang of thing's.

Don't be put off once sorted it's a great place to travel all be it a bit crazy.

[Songhua]

Highly recommend the Nana Beach Hotel near Chumphon as the halfway break. Take the 3180 off the highway to the beach/hotel and then continue on in the same direction into Chumphon (back to the highway) the next morning.

The hotel is directly opposite the ocean, reasonably priced with great rooms and an excellent breakfast.

It feels like a bit of a detour but well worth it for the refresher it provides IMO.

On the other ..... although i've been stopped at police roadblocks quite often, I've never been fined for anything (or even asked to show a licence) the many times we have driven BKK - Phuket. In fact, the last time we made the trip the only time we got stopped was at an army checkpoint halfway Chumphon/Ranong - they quickly peeked in the window and waved us on.

[Ace of Pop]

Songhua, same as us, but we go down the coast through Chumphon to the first fishing village. cant remember its name offhand but cant miss it. Stay at the Police Office, nice Family who do B&B.Never do the run in Hi Season, Weekends or Public Holls though .Never had a desire to visit Phuket for some reason.

[wefinesse]

Good idea to get a S/Nav as getting out of BKK can be a nightmare suggest you get a good map for a few 100bt as well, S/Nav's can tell lies.

Tip if it's the first time you've driven here don't try and do it in 1 day it will knacker you the 9/10 hour's can turn into 14/15 if there is a problem on the road.

As suggested by other's take the scenic route will stick up to 3+ hour's on the time but well worth it.

Where to stay is up to you when you've had enough just ask the S/Nav for local hotel's there are thousand's every ware.

Oh other thing's they Thai do some time's put their Hazard light's on telling you they are going strait on don't ask it's a Thai thing. They will also come up your inside and it there is more that an inch between you and the car ahead of you try and get into the space just back off let them do it.

Don't travel at night unless you have to, M/C even car's will use your hard shoulder coming towards you without light's happens all the time and trust me you as a non Thai will get the blame, don't travel in the outside lane to long as you will get a fine if there is room to come over do it even for only a Min: or two it's all to do with car's doing U/Turn's through the central reservation.

Slowly slowly until you get the hang of thing's.

Don't be put off once sorted it's a great place to travel all be it a bit crazy.

Thanx fredob43.. . So will buy maps. Forget the Navs if misleading. A shame though. I guess have to do a break in Chumphon or vicinity. Now looking at feedbacks for a suitable place. Places with cockroaches, slow wi-fi, noisy due to thin walls, and other complaints in some places. Cool move - Hazards to show going straight, in Japan they do it to say thanx - if you let them cut in front of you , was puzzled at first. Live and learn. Also will watch out for that inside move,,,Definitely not planning night driving in this run. Ok - no driving in the outside lane (I guess you mean the fast/right lane). Glad to hear - its a grt place to travel.

[wefinesse]

Highly recommend the Nana Beach Hotel near Chumphon as the halfway break. Take the 3180 off the highway to the beach/hotel and then continue on in the same direction into Chumphon (back to the highway) the next morning.

The hotel is directly opposite the ocean, reasonably priced with great rooms and an excellent breakfast.

It feels like a bit of a detour but well worth it for the refresher it provides IMO.

On the other ..... although i've been stopped at police roadblocks quite often, I've never been fined for anything (or even asked to show a licence) the many times we have driven BKK - Phuket. In fact, the last time we made the trip the only time we got stopped was at an army checkpoint halfway Chumphon/Ranong - they quickly peeked in the window and waved us on.

Thanx Songhua, Chumphon it is. Thanx for the directions. Will check Nana Beach Hotel feedbacks if hv online.

[wefinesse]

Songhua, same as us, but we go down the coast through Chumphon to the first fishing village. cant remember its name offhand but cant miss it. Stay at the Police Office, nice Family who do B&B.Never do the run in Hi Season, Weekends or Public Holls though .Never had a desire to visit Phuket for some reason.

Thanx Ace of Pop, Plan to do it on a weekday, perhaps in abt two weeks from now. Still debating to buy a car or rent one in B'kok. Inclination is to buy a car for arnd 10gs. Check it out for fitness and drive. Wise thing would be to rent, but I do not plan to be back to B'kok, hence could be a problem to return the car. Wish to know what kind of cars all of you guys think can make a 900Kms. in Thailand with no breakdowns????

[wefinesse]

Can you believe this ???

The most dangerous countries to drive in; Thailand ranks #2

Countries with most deaths from car crashes per 100,000 population*

1. Namibia - 45

2. Thailand - 44

Full story: http://news.drive.co...0221-335yt.html

-- Drive.com.au 2014-02-20

[richard_smith237]

- Road Signs lead to the next Major town, know the major towns along the route.

- Getting out off BKK is confusing for those unfamiliar with the roads and tollways. Google Maps your Journey and Sat NAV is a must.

- Cops may or may not stop you. Don't worry, its not a big deal. If you do get stopped, maintain your cool, be polite.

- Make sure you have an International Driving Permit (backed up with a Licence) - The cops can't fine you for no licence then.

- Expect the unexpected. That driver behind you, in front of you or about to pull out really is about to do something very dangerous and silly.

- Key Point - Make no sudden lane changes etc, other vehicles tend to sit right in your blind spot (always check the blind spot).

- If first at the lights, don't pull away too quickly or immediately as other cars and bikes have a habit of jumping a light thats just turned red.

- Don't slam on your breaks for a traffic light thats just turned yellow (go through on yellow), the car behind is speeding up anticipating that you'll do the same.

- You will be tailgated - do your best to let them get out of the way, the tailgaters are in a hurry and take risks.

*** I suspect the greatest issues you'll face will be actually driving on Phuket Island itself... ***

[Bagwain]

If buying a car it may be prudent to stay away from 2nd hand BMW's.

You would be hard pressed to get a decent BMW mechanic in Thailand let alone whilst travelling.

Nippon clip on is the way to go.

Enjoy the trip. You will if you take all the sensible advice already offered. I can't comment about Chumphon as I normally stay at Hua Hin for a bit of a play (Nudge nudge wink wink) if I am on my own!

The Ranong diversion is a great trip! Very scenic!!