Getting around Thailand is one of the more advanced and simple to navigate out of the 10+ countries I have visited. This article is a concoction of my personal experience traveling across the nation while Teaching English in Thailand, as well as research on my part of the transportation system within Thailand. During the process of writing this, I discovered that public transportation costs in Thailand are regulated by the government in order to keep tickets affordable; the prices are primarily based on fuel costs in order to maintain stability.  Throughout this blog post, I delve into the different modes of transportation within a city, as well as across the country. All prices mentioned are pretty standard throughout the country; they may not be exactly what you will pay, but they are good reference points for future travels. 

While Teaching English in the Land of Smiles, you’ll learn all the ins and outs when it comes to getting around Thailand.

Local Transportation in Thailand: How to get around cities

Songthaews (pictured above), taxi’s, and tuk-tuk are the primary methods for getting around a city. In Thailand, each city has its own modes of travel. While visiting Sukhothai, I discovered the only method of travel was via tuk-tuk and a single songthaew that went up and down the main road. While in Buriram, where I teach Earth Science, we have “Grab” (The Uber of Thailand), songthaews, and tuk-tuks. So let’s look at what each of these entail.

Songthaews: Affordable, easy, and fun

 Songthaews are a common sight in nearly every city in Thailand, they are extremely cheap and often follow specific routes. They are the equivalent of a local bus system outside of main cities, and also within many. In Buriram we have 2 different routes identified by color; a ride costs 20 baht per person no matter how far. When you pass by where you want to get off, just hit the buzzer on the ceiling and hold on! Hua Hin, the charming beach town where TravelBud’s TESOL course takes place, has 5 different routes! While traveling through Chiang Mai I discovered they have hundreds, if not thousands of red songthaews driving around. These are willing to take you wherever you want for 40 baht within the Old City. They are an incredible way to get to the near vicinity of your destination affordably!

These “red trucks,” or red songthaews, are a Chiang Mai icon, and the best way to get around the city.

Taxis: Meter, please!

While in Bangkok, I once spent nearly 2 hours in a taxi stuck in traffic traveling about 20 kilometers during rush hour. Normally this would be a terrifying idea, but thanks to the cost of transportation was only a 130 baht fare ($4.33). Taxis are incredibly reasonable; however, you must ensure they are using their meter. Taxis are legally obligated to use their meters, make sure you only get in a taxi that is using their meter, if they insist on setting a price beforehand, get out. Because of this I always like to check the Grab App, the rideshare phone app of Thailand. Grab is available in most cities above 30,000 people, I love using Grab. At approximately the same cost as a taxi, you can make sure you get picked up and taken to the right destination with no hassles due to cost as it can all be taken care of through the application.

Taking a taxi is a great way to escape the heat in Thailand – just make sure to request the meter!

Tuk-Tuks: A Thai cultural icon

 The final local transportation I want to mention is the notorious tuk-tuk. When people think of transportation, these are the iconic image that everyone thinks of. These are the most fascinating travels I have taken. Unfortunately, the most expensive as well. Typically associated with low costs, I feel like this isn’t the case in Thailand. They are reasonable by western standards at 300 baht, perhaps 200 baht after some negotiating, to go just about anywhere within a city. In comparison to the other modes of transport available in Thailand, if you are frugal like me then these are not ideal. If you choose this mode of transportation I urge you to negotiate and agree on a price before-hand. Hold on tight ’cause you are about to go for a wild ride!

You can’t leave Thailand without taking a tuk tuk ride – but they can get pricey as your main transport.

Long-Haul Transportation in Thailand: Getting across the country or to a different one

Long-haul transportation is phenomenal in Thailand.  However, like most countries, there are a few limitations. Whether via bus, or train one thing remains: you will get you where you need to go cheaply and in a reasonable span of time. 

Bus System: Not for the over-planner

In terms of cost, this mode is a win. This month I rode 14 hours nonstop on a VIP bus costing 700 baht ($23.00). That’s a remarkable price to travel across the country in comfort while watching movies on a private tv screen and enjoying a complimentary meal. I could have done it much cheaper if I desired to, but when you are talking 1,000 kilometers, comfort becomes a priority. There are countless bus options to get to any city in Thailand you want, often direct, or with only one transfer. I find this to be extremely important when characterizing the ease of travel.

The biggest hindrance to the bus system in Thailand is the challenge to plan in advance. There are 100 or more bus companies canvassing the country; every time I visit a new bus station I discover a new bus company. While this is incredible, the challenge is that very few have published bus schedules available on the web. I use a variety of websites when attempting to plan out my travels. Often I come to the same conclusion time and time again, “I guess I will figure it out when I get to the bus station.” 

Busses are commonly used by the locals in Thailand. Many TravelBud teachers hop on busses like this one to explore the country on weekends and school breaks!

Train: Slow and steady saves your baht

While your destination is slightly limited by train, it is a wonderful way to travel. I took a train to a nearby province an hour away for 9 baht one way, and 27 baht on the way back totaling just above $1.00. Trains are cheap and provide a wonderful way to see the countryside. However, I often choose alternatives because they are often about 20% slower than the bus options. If you want a view, higher overall comfort, and a stream of incredible food vendors, trains are an enjoyable way to travel. 

Plane: Quick and reliable

While the latter two options are more sustainable and immersive, sometimes you need to get there fast. For this, air travel is ideal. Most people don’t realize how affordable air travel within Thailand can be, with tickets from Bangkok to Chaing Mai on a budget airline as cheap as $40. It is important to keep in mind that checked bags are rarely included, and your carry-on is usually limited to 7 kg. Also, most budget flights come with no freebies, so bring your own water, snacks, and entertainment!

Bon Voyage

I hope this helps you with grasping the transportation system of Thailand. I am a lover of traveling and my obsession is satiated by the substantial options and ability I have to leave for a weekend on a sudden urge. Never worry too much about transportation while in Thailand, the options are endless and affordable. This blog post only tackles travel within Thailand, but don’t forget there are plenty of neighboring countries accessible by plane, train, and bus as well. Travel in Thailand is incredible, simple and cheap–enjoy it!