These things you should know to ensure a smooth start to your trip to Thailand when you land in Bangkok Airport! Bangkok, has two main airports:
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – The larger of the two, it is the primary international airport, handling the majority of long-haul international flights and a significant number of domestic flights.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) – This is the older airport, primarily serving low-cost and regional airlines for both international and domestic flights.
These two airports make Bangkok a major air travel hub in Southeast Asia. Both airports are critical to Bangkok’s position as a hub in Southeast Asia, catering to different types of travelers and offering options for easy transfers between them if needed.
Here are some Things you need to know when you land at, Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) in Bangkok:
Data
Don’t buy a SIM card from the airport – they are extremely overpriced! I suggest either getting an eSIM if you find one with a good price for the duration of your trip or for a couple of days to get you connected and then go to a 7/11 and get a cheaper one there (you may need to bring your passport!) I use the true network when I am in Thailand and it’s great coverage. You can Keep your home SIM card for when you return! (Wifi is free at the airports in Bangkok)
Money
Don’t exchange money when you are on the second floor (arrival floor) – the rates are very high so go to the bottom floor of the bangkok airport and you will get much better rates – alternatively exchange money in your home country so you have money to start your trip to Bangkok with and then use a travel card to take out money at ATMs go to a bank or exchange in reputable places e.g. SuperRich
Food and Drinks
Food courts in the airport can be more expensive. If you have time, explore options on the lower levels or wait until you get into the city for more affordable and diverse food options you should try Thai food at local streets.
Transport
Get the public bus for 60 baht (it stops at Khao San Road for all my backpackers!!) Or take the airport link (trains). If you want to take a taxi go to the taxi rank on the first floor, go to one of the machines, press the button for a ticket and go to the bay with your ticket number on it, the price is on the meter so they can’t scam you however, be aware of the airport surcharge! (Alternatively, download app called “Grab” which you will need to get around Bangkok anyway and go to the Grab pickup point)
Communication
You’ll find many signs and announcements are in English, but not all staff may be fluent in english. Learning a few basic Thai phrases can be helpful for you- use translation apps if you encounter language barriers & be respectful of Thai customs and culture. You have to just give a friendly smile and have patience go a long way in ensuring a positive experience.
Learning a few essential Thai phrases can be incredibly helpful for you in Thailand. Here are some must-know words and phrases that are especially useful for your trip in Thailand.
Hello – Sawasdee (สวัสดี),Thank you – Khop khun (ขอบคุณ), Yes – Chai (ใช่), Where is…? – Yoo tee nai…? (อยู่ที่ไหน…?), How much? – Tao rai? (เท่าไหร่), Go to… – Bpai tee… (ไปที่…), Taxi – Taxi (แท็กซี่). Airport – Sanam bin (สนามบิน)
I want this – Ao ann nee (เอาอันนี้)
How much is this? – An-nee tao rai? (อันนี้เท่าไหร่)
Delicious – Aroi (อร่อย)
Water – Nam (น้ำ)
Bill, please – Check bin (เช็คบิล)
Help! – Chuay duay! (ช่วยด้วย)
Hospital – Rong payabaan (โรงพยาบาล)
Police – Tamruat (ตำรวจ)
I don’t understand – Mai kao jai (ไม่เข้าใจ)
Excuse me / Sorry – Khot hort (ขอโทษ)
Please – Karunaa (กรุณา)
No problem – Mai bpen rai (ไม่เป็นไร)
With these basic phrases, you can navigate Thailand more easily, making their interactions with locals smoother and their experience richer!
