Thailand Road Trip Guide: Routes, Tips & What to Know Before You Drive

Thailand's road infrastructure is better than most Southeast Asian neighbours, making self-drive road trips genuinely viable and often the best way to reach off-the-beaten-path destinations. The most popular road trip routes: the Northern Loop (Chiang Mai → Mae Hong Son → Pai → Chiang Mai) is a dramatic three-to-five day loop through mountain passes and hill tribe villages — the Mae Hong Son loop road includes some of Thailand's most beautiful mountain driving. The East Coast route (Bangkok → Koh Chang → Trat) takes 4–5 hours and opens up the quieter Gulf islands. Driving rules: international driving licences are accepted; drive on the left; speed limits are 90km/h outside towns and 60 in them. Car rentals start at ฿800–1,500 per day for a basic automatic; Chiang Mai has the best selection of rental companies. The biggest practical hazard is motorbikes and scooters behaving unpredictably — stay alert, especially at intersections. Fuel is cheap (roughly ฿30–40 per litre for 91/95 octane). Google Maps works reliably throughout Thailand. The most scenic single road in Thailand: Route 1095, Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son — 1,864 curves and jaw-dropping mountain scenery.