Passengers arriving at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi international airport (BKK) enter the arrivals hall on Level 2. To catch a public taxi (known as a taxi-meter) you need to go down to Level 1. Despite various crackdowns by Thai authorities there are still some unlicensed touts hanging around so ignore shouts of “taxi” or “where you go?” and make your own way down to Level 1 following the signs for public taxis.

Once you arrive at Level 1 there are a number of different options for taxis. These include the ordinary taxi meters through to electric taxis and VIP services offered by the likes of AOT and CABB.

Using a meter taxi is the cheapest and most commonly used option for taking a cab from Bangkok airport. Signs at the airport are in English in addition to Thai to help make things smoother for tourists.

The first thing you need to do is make sure you choose the right queue/lane to get your ticket. The lanes are:

Short-distance (for hotels and locations close to the airport e.g. Lat Krabang)

Regular taxi (standard sized car suitable for 1 or 2 passengers with small luggage)

Big taxi (larger vehicle suitable for more than 2 people or those with larger luggage)

Once you enter the lane you use a multi-language touch-screen to print-out your queue ticket. The number on your ticket corresponds to the number of the bay where your taxi is parked. The ticket details the driver’s name, plate and operating licence number. The ticket also includes a QR code and contact details should you have a problem or complaint so make sure you retain the ticket.

How Much Will I Be Charged?

For destinations in Bangkok you will be charged on the meter rate which is in itself regulated by the Department of Land Transport. Note that the flag-fall charge is 35 Baht which will be displayed on the meter when you start the journey.

Taxis at the airport also incur a fixed airport surcharge of 50 Baht. This will not show on the final meter price so needs to be added on to whatever the final meter price shows.

The quickest and most convenient way into town for many of the main tourist areas involves taking the express-way. It is the passenger’s responsibility to pay the express-way fees. As an example, a trip from the airport to Silom, Sukhumvit or the Riverside area will typically involve two tolls; one at 25 Baht and one at 45 Baht. Try to have coins or smaller denomination notes (20/50/100 Baht notes) to make things easier.

For a trip to Silom or Sukhumvit you can expect to pay approximately:

Meter charge 300-350 Baht (approximately)

Express-way tolls 70 Baht

Airport pick-up surcharge 50 Baht

Total = 500-550 Baht (excluding any luggage fees; see below)

Pay the driver at the end of the trip. I usually add a small tip (20-50 Baht), but tipping drivers isn’t expected so it’s up to your personal discretion.

For journeys outside of Bangkok you will usually be charged a flat rate fare and not on the meter. For example, a trip to Damnoen Saduak floating market is approximately 1,500 Baht (including expressway tolls). I suggest you have your hotel arrange a private van. It is super cheap compared to the USA and they make sure you get to the correct place at the correct time.

The Grab app is the Uber of Thailand. You can use This is phone app for a ride to the airport, or to have food delivered from local restaurants. It is easy to use. We recommend you download it and add your credit card before leaving the USA.

Use the links below to Download the app.

Grab for Android: Link

Grab for Apple: Link

Taking a Tuk Tuk may seem like a tourist thing to do, but I do not care. I absolutely love grabbing a Tuk Tuk taxi. Especially in the evening when things cool off a touch. You get a feel of the city. They do not have meters, but instead will quote you a price in Baht before you take off. You can tip if you want. I suggest 30-60baht if you do. Most of the time they charge you more for being from out of town. I suggest you negotiate a little. It is part of the fun. Just smile and be kind when you negotiate;)

Remember, its stupid cheap there:)