Escroqueries à la location de scooters à Phuket et sécurité : comment louer sans se faire arnaquer

Pre-rental checklist

Do this at the shop, before you pay and before you accept the key.

• Take a slow video of the whole bike, including the tank, mirrors, underside and tyres
• Check brakes, lights, horn, indicators and tyre tread
• Confirm the helmet fits and has an intact strap
• Get the price, deposit and damage policy in writing or in a chat message
• Make sure the registration blue book and plate match

Common scams

The most reported issue is an inflated repair bill for damage that was already there. Others include a surprise late fee, a demand for your passport, and a replacement-bike price far above its real value.

If you have an accident

Get medical help first. Phuket has well-equipped private hospitals, but costs are high for uninsured travellers. Take photos of the scene, call the shop, and file a police report if anyone is injured or a third party is involved.

Insurance worth having

Check that your travel insurance covers scooter use, your license class and your engine size. If it does not, choose a policy that does before you travel.