Jazmin Li
Bangkok is a year-round tourist destination, with direct flights from over 122 airports worldwide. The city is serviced by two airports: Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Suvarnabhumi is the larger of the two, with a greater variety of flight options, times, and carriers, as well as more upscale shopping, lounge, and dining options. However, Don Mueang may be the better option for those looking for cheaper flights, as it caters to low-fare airlines. While duty-free shopping is available at both airports, opinions vary on whether the prices are cheaper than elsewhere. Nonetheless, certain items such as perfumes, makeup, and alcohol are generally considered to be more affordable at duty-free shops.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Flight prices | $31-$408 |
| Transport options | AOT Limousines, shuttle buses, airport rail links, car rentals, motorbikes, taxis, tuk-tuks, canal boats, river ferries, BTS Skytrain, MRT Subway |
| Facilities | Children's play areas, toy shops, sightseeing tours, luggage storage, restaurants, shops, money exchange counters, ATMs, spas & salons, food & beverage outlets, art installations |
| Duty-free shopping | Perfumes, makeup, alcohol, chocolates, electrical goods, speciality stores, fashion brands (e.g. Coach, Gucci, Longchamp, Samsonite) |
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What You'll Learn
Cheap flights to Bangkok
Bangkok is serviced by 88 air carriers from 122 airports worldwide, so you're sure to find a great deal on a flight to Thailand's vibrant capital.
When to Book
Don't wait until the last minute to book your flight. The best deals don't last long, so be sure to secure your ticket as soon as you spot a bargain. It's a good idea to know what a typical airfare costs so you can recognise a great deal when you see one.
When to Fly
Airfare to Bangkok varies throughout the year. The cheapest month to fly to Bangkok is usually October, while the lowest rates for round trips are typically found in August, and for one-ways in June.
Which Airport
Bangkok has two airports: Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Suvarnabhumi is the larger and busier of the two, with a wider variety of flight options, times, and carriers. It's also the most well-known airport in Bangkok, with a wide range of restaurants and shopping options. However, if your flight to Bangkok is just the first leg of your journey, Don Mueang might be the better option. The train station is just a 10-minute walk from the airport, providing quick and convenient access to many of Thailand's other great cities.
Where to Stay
If you're looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in Bangkok, consider the Mind Day Hostel Khaosan in Bangkok's bustling Old Town, close to temples and museums.
Duty-Free Shopping
If you're looking to do some duty-free shopping at Bangkok Airport, you'll find a good selection of shops, including major fashion brands such as Coach and Gucci, as well as shops selling alcohol, perfume, makeup, chocolates, electronics, and specialty items. However, keep in mind that prices can be high, and you may find better deals in town.
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Affordable transport from the airport
Bangkok has two international airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK). Suvarnabhumi Airport is Bangkok's main international airport, located about 30km from downtown Bangkok. Don Mueang Airport is Bangkok's secondary hub, catering primarily to low-cost domestic and international flights.
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
- Airport Rail Link (ARL): This is a convenient and affordable way to get to the city from the airport. The high-speed express train takes only 20 minutes to reach the city centre and runs from 7-10 pm.
- Shuttle bus: There are shuttle buses available from the airport to various destinations in the city.
- Public taxi: You can find metered taxis in front of the Arrival Halls of both the International and Domestic Passenger Terminals. The billing method includes a metered fee plus an airport fee of THB 50 and highway tolls.
- Private transfer service: You can book a private transfer service in advance, which offers a range of vehicle options, including SUVs, sedans, vans, and luxury cars. This option provides convenience and comfort but may be more expensive than public transport.
Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
- Red Line Train: This train service connects Don Mueang Airport to the Krungthep Apiwat Station north of the city centre. From there, you can transfer to the MRT Blue Line to reach other parts of the city. The trip costs THB 33 and takes around 17 minutes.
- Bus: There are four bus routes (A1, A2, A3, and A4) that depart from Don Mueang Airport every 20 to 30 minutes. The fare is THB 30, payable upon boarding. Route A1 takes you to the BTS Mo Chit Station, where you can connect to other areas in Bangkok via the MRT line.
- Taxi: Metered taxis are available at dedicated pickup areas in Terminals 1 and 2 of Don Mueang Airport. The billing method is similar to Suvarnabhumi Airport, including a metered fee, an airport fee, and any highway tolls.
Additionally, when searching for flights to Bangkok, it is recommended to compare prices and be flexible with dates to find the best deals.
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Duty-free shopping
Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) is a bustling hub with a wide range of duty-free shopping options. While some travellers note that prices can be higher than expected, there are still some great deals to be found, especially on certain products.
For those interested in beauty and cosmetics, the airport offers a wide range of options, including popular brands such as L'Oreal, Estée Lauder, Nars, Lancôme, and Clinique. These products are often displayed in a walk-through shopping street, making it convenient to browse. Perfumes, in particular, are noted to be cheaper at duty-free prices, and they can be safely carried onto the plane if sealed with a duty-free sticker and placed in a clear plastic bag.
The airport also boasts a variety of fashion brand shops, including well-known names such as Coach, Gucci, Longchamp, Samsonite, and Benetton. If you're looking for something more unique, the OTOP (One Tambon, One Product) shop at Suvarnabhumi Airport offers a wide range of arts and crafts from local Thai villages, each with its own distinct character and folk wisdom.
For those with a taste for finer things, Level 4, Concourse D is a world of luxury, offering exclusive products and experiences. The airport also has a wide range of wines and spirits from around the world, as well as other top beverage brands.
While duty-free shopping at the airport can be convenient, some travellers suggest exploring options in Bangkok itself. The city offers a range of shopping opportunities, and purchasing items beforehand allows you to compare prices and ensure stock availability. Additionally, buying certain items in the city and claiming back the tax at the airport can sometimes result in greater savings.
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Food and beverage outlets
Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok has been voted one of the world's top ten airports, partly due to its restaurants. While the airport has over 60 restaurants, many are not cheap. However, there are still some affordable options for food and beverages.
The Magic Food Court, also known as Magic Food Point, is a food court located on the first floor of the airport. It has been described as a "hidden gem", serving cheap Thai-style food. The food court operates like a typical Thai food court, with coupons purchased at the entrance that can be exchanged for food at any of the dozen or so stalls. The coupons are valid throughout the day of purchase and can be redeemed for cash if unused. Prices for meals start at 40 THB, with beverages available from 15 THB. Popular dishes include Hainanese Chicken Rice, Fried Shrimps in Curry Powder topped with fried egg, and iconic Thai dishes such as Tom Yum noodle soup and Pad Thai with shrimps. Halal food is also available at the food court.
For those seeking a quick bite, Dairy Queen in the international departure area offers meals at comparable prices to its other locations in Thailand. A chilli hot dog, french fries, and a Coke cost around 150 baht, significantly cheaper than a typical set meal at McDonald's in the same area. Caffe Nero by Black Canyon, also in the international departure area, is another option for quick meals, serving items such as lattes, fruit shakes, sandwiches, pasta, and Thai rice dishes.
Whittard of Chelsea is recommended for those seeking a good cup of tea or coffee and pastries, with prices that are relatively cheaper than other cafes and bakeries in the airport.
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Children's entertainment
Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) are Bangkok's two international airports. Both airports have children's play areas available, so kids can stay entertained while waiting for their flights. Suvarnabhumi Airport also has toy shops and sightseeing tours that can be scheduled from the arrivals area.
If you're looking for family-friendly entertainment outside of the airport, Kidzania and Imaginia Playland are highly recommended. Siam Ocean World Siam Paragon is another great option, where kids can get up close to the shark enclosure.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several options for cheap flights to Bangkok. You can find flights from \$31 one way, \$62 for a round trip, and prices can go up to \$693. Some airlines that offer cheap flights to Bangkok include Jetstar Asia, Jeju Air, Lucky Air, Spring Airlines, and American Airlines.
The Don Mueang Train Station is just a 10-minute walk from Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) and provides quick access to many of Thailand's other cities. Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) is about 30km west of the city centre, while DMK is 24km from the city centre. A high-speed express train from Suvarnabhumi International Airport to the city centre takes 20 minutes and is extremely affordable.
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport has a wide range of duty-free shopping options, including wine, spirits, cosmetics, and fashion brands. However, some sources say that shopping at duty-free is not a cheap option, and it may be better to shop in the city and claim duty back at the airport.
