Roberta Aguirre
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) is a bustling transportation hub offering a range of options for travellers to get to their destination. One popular choice is to take a taxi, which can be convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about using a taxi at Bangkok Airport, including how to catch one, the different types available, and some helpful tips to make your journey smoother. With this information, you'll be able to navigate the airport with ease and start your Bangkok adventure in style.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taxi types | Ordinary taxi meters, electric taxis, VIP services, limousines |
| Taxi apps | Grab, GrabTaxi, AllThaiTaxi |
| Taxi fares | THB 350-500 for metered fare, THB 50 for airport fee, THB 100 for highway tolls |
| Taxi tips | Round up the fare to the nearest 10 or 20 baht; tip at least 10% for longer journeys |
| Private transfer services | TTS Private Airport Transfer Service, Klook |
| Private transfer prices | From THB 700 upwards |
| Private transfer perks | May include waiting time for flight delays |
| Private transfer booking | Book online in advance |
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What You'll Learn
Where to find a taxi at Bangkok Airport
Bangkok Airport (BKK) has an organised system for passengers wishing to take a taxi from the airport. Passengers arriving at the airport enter the arrivals hall on Level 2. To catch a public taxi, you need to go down to Level 1. There is a "Public Taxi" desk outside the arrival building on Level 1.
Bangkok Airport has an organised taxi queue with corresponding numbered taxi bays. You will see a queue machine where you can get a ticket that points you to a corresponding lane number where you will wait for your ride. The number on your ticket corresponds to the number of the bay where your taxi is parked. The ticket will also include the driver's name, plate, and operating license number.
Bangkok Airport offers a range of different taxi options, including ordinary taxi meters, electric taxis, and VIP services offered by companies like AOT and CABB. Using a meter taxi is the cheapest and most commonly used option for taking a cab from the airport. The meter rate is regulated by the Department of Land Transport. The flag-fall charge is 35 Baht, which will be displayed on the meter at the start of your journey.
If you are travelling with a lot of luggage or in a large group, there are also van-type or "maxi" taxis available, which are ideal for 3-4 people with lots of bags.
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How to book a taxi in advance
Booking a taxi in advance is a great way to ensure a smooth arrival or departure from Bangkok Airport. Here are some options for how to do so:
Using a Ride-Hailing App
One option for booking a taxi in advance is to use a ride-hailing app such as Grab or SIXT. These apps allow you to book a taxi directly to your hotel or any other location in Bangkok. To use Grab, simply open the app, enter your destination, and follow the in-app directions to meet your driver. Grab has its own pick-up point at Gate 4 on the first floor of Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. SIXT also offers a premium chauffeur service that can be booked through their app. You can choose from a range of vehicle classes, including sedans and vans, and your English-speaking driver will meet you and assist with your luggage.
Booking with a Private Transfer Company
Another option is to book a private transfer service with a company such as Book Taxi Bangkok, Thai Taxis, or Welcome Pickups. These companies offer reliable and comfortable transfers from the airport to your destination. When booking with these companies, you can expect benefits such as meet-and-greet services, flight monitoring for delays, and fixed rates that include insurance and highway tolls. Some companies, like Thai Taxis, also offer the option to book a car or van for a full day with a driver at a fixed rate.
Pre-Booking a Local Taxi
If you prefer to use a local taxi, you can pre-book your BKK Airport taxi with Welcome Pickups to avoid the long queues at the kiosks inside the airport. This will ensure a seamless door-to-door journey directly to your hotel. Pre-booking with a local company can also help you avoid hidden fees and ensure that your pickup is on time, even if your flight is delayed.
By booking a taxi in advance, you can enjoy a stress-free arrival or departure from Bangkok Airport and take advantage of features such as flight monitoring, fixed rates, and premium vehicle options.
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Taxi types and fares
Bangkok Airport has a variety of taxi options, from standard taxi meters to electric taxis and VIP services. The airport has an organised system, with a queue machine that dispenses tickets and directs passengers to the correct lane for their designated taxi.
Taxi Types
Ordinary taxi meters are the cheapest and most commonly used option. Bangkok Airport also offers electric taxis and VIP services provided by companies like AOT and CABB. These companies offer premium services with professional drivers, comfortable vehicles, and a smooth transfer to your destination.
If you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a large group, you may need to opt for a bigger vehicle, such as an SUV or minivan. These larger taxis are available at the airport and can accommodate more passengers or larger suitcases.
For those who prefer a more private and exclusive experience, private transfer services are also available. Companies like TTS Private Airport Transfer Service and Welcome Pickups offer pre-booking options, English-speaking drivers, and all-inclusive fares.
Fares
The fares for taxi services in Bangkok Airport vary depending on the type of service and the distance travelled. The base fare for a standard taxi meter, which includes the first kilometre, is THB 50, and the price per additional kilometre is THB 6.50. If the ride exceeds 10 kilometres, the rate per kilometre increases to THB 7. There is also an airport surcharge of THB 50, and expressway tolls may be added, typically ranging from THB 50 to THB 70. The average price for a Bangkok taxi service, including the metered fare, airport fee, and highway tolls, is THB 350-500.
It is important to note that some taxi drivers may try to overcharge or take advantage of tourists. To avoid this, it is recommended to pre-book with a trusted company or ensure that the driver resets the taximeter to the base fare before starting the journey. Most taxi drivers only accept cash payments in Thai Baht, so be sure to have the local currency on hand.
Additionally, ride-sharing apps like Grab have become a popular alternative to traditional taxis. Grab has a designated pick-up point at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, and their prices tend to be more competitive than regular taxis.
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Avoiding unlicensed taxis
Bangkok is known for its colourful taxis, which are a popular mode of transport for tourists and locals alike. However, it is important to be vigilant about your safety and only use licensed taxis. Here are some tips to avoid unlicensed taxis and have a secure travel experience:
Recognise the signs of a licensed taxi
Bangkok's taxis are easily recognised by their bright colours and taxi signs on the roof. Most taxis have meters, which are regulated by the Department of Land Transport, and the fare is calculated based on the distance travelled. Always ensure the driver turns on the meter to avoid disputes over pricing.
Know where to find official taxis at the airport
At Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK), official taxis can be found on Level 1. Ignore anyone who approaches you on Level 2 shouting "taxi" or "where you go?" and follow the signs to the public taxi stands on Level 1. At Don Mueang Airport (DMK), dedicated taxi pickup areas are in Terminals 1 and 2.
Check the taxi ticket
At BKK Airport, you will use a multi-language touchscreen to print a queue ticket. This ticket will have the driver's name, plate, and operating license number, as well as a QR code and contact details. Keep this ticket in case you need to file a complaint or report a problem.
Book a private transfer in advance
If you want to avoid dealing with taxi drivers altogether, consider booking a private transfer service in advance. These services can be booked online and will usually include a meet-and-greet by the driver at the airport arrivals hall. Prices start from 700 baht, and you can expect a comfortable and hassle-free ride to your destination.
Be aware of common scams
Bangkok taxi drivers have a reputation for tampered meters, taking passengers to jewellery shops, and other tricks to get more money from tourists. Always check that the meter is working properly and be firm about your destination. It is also a good idea to have a basic understanding of the local language or have your destination written in Thai to avoid miscommunication.
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Getting a taxi in Bangkok as a tourist
Bangkok is a bustling city with a wide range of transportation options for tourists arriving at the airport and sightseeing around the city. Here is a comprehensive guide to getting a taxi in Bangkok as a tourist:
At the Airport
When you arrive at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK), you will enter the arrivals hall on Level 2. To catch a public taxi, you need to go down to Level 1. There are various options, including ordinary taxi meters, electric taxis, and VIP services offered by companies like AOT and CABB.
It is recommended to use metered taxis, as they are the cheapest and most commonly used option. Follow the signs for public taxis and join the organised queue with corresponding numbered taxi bays. You can also use the queue machine to get a ticket, which will direct you to the correct lane for your ride.
Be aware of unlicensed touts who may approach you, and avoid taxi drivers who do not use the meter or insist on a fixed fare. The average price for a metered taxi service is THB 350-500, plus an airport fee of THB 50 and highway tolls.
In the City
Bangkok has an abundance of taxis, and you can easily flag one down on the street. Look for a taxi with its light on, indicating it is available, and wave it down with a hand movement like patting a dog. It is generally recommended to avoid taxis parked outside hotels or tourist attractions, as they may refuse to use the meter and charge higher fares.
When you get into the taxi, ask the driver to use the meter and clearly state your destination. If they refuse or demand a fixed price, politely decline and wait for another taxi. Keep in mind that taxi drivers may not know all the small streets, so it is helpful to have a map or the name and location of your destination written in Thai.
Additional Tips
- Carry small denominations of Thai Baht for taxi fares, as drivers may not have change for large notes.
- Tipping is not required, but rounding up the fare is a common practice.
- Be cautious of your surroundings when exiting the taxi to avoid any accidents with motorcycles or other vehicles.
- If you encounter any issues with a taxi, you can report it to the Land Transport Department Hotline or use the DLT Taxi app.
- For a more personalised experience, you can also consider private airport transfer services or renting a car.
By following these instructions, you can confidently navigate Bangkok's taxi system and enjoy your explorations in the city.
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Frequently asked questions
After collecting your luggage, go down to Level 1 of the Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) to find the taxi stands. You can also use a ride-sharing app like Grab, which has a designated pick-up point at Gate 4 on the first floor.
The average price for a Bangkok taxi service is THB 350-500 for the metered fare, THB 50 for the airport fee, and THB 100 for highway tolls. The starting taxi fare is THB 35, and the meter increases slowly relative to the distance travelled.
You can pay in cash or use a ride-sharing app like Grab or AllThaiTaxi, which allows you to pay online.
This depends on your destination. For example, it takes about 50 minutes to reach Khoa San Road, which is 52 kilometres from the airport. On the other hand, Wat Arun is 41 kilometres from the airport, and the taxi ride takes about 45 minutes.
Yes, you can use the airport shuttle buses, which will take you to the main bus terminal. From there, you can take another bus to your final destination. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer service or rent a car.
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