Quick Answer
Transport Apps in Thailand
Grab, Bolt, oBike, and everything else — the apps that make getting around Thailand easy.
Thailand has an excellent ecosystem of transport apps that make navigating cities far easier than flagging taxis on the street. Grab dominates rideshare across the country, with Bolt as a growing competitor in Bangkok. For food delivery, GrabFood and Foodpanda are both mature platforms. For transit navigation, Google Maps works well in major cities and integrates BTS/MRT routes. Knowing which app to use in which situation saves time, avoids overcharging, and makes daily life significantly more convenient.
This guide covers every major transport app available in Thailand, what each does well, how pricing compares, and practical tips for getting the most out of each platform.
Rideshare: Grab and Bolt
Grab is the dominant rideshare app across Southeast Asia and works reliably in every Thai city and most tourist areas. Fares are fixed upfront with no negotiation — a major advantage over metered taxis which sometimes refuse to use meters. GrabCar fares are comparable to metered taxis in Bangkok (40–150 THB for most urban trips); GrabBike is cheaper and faster in traffic. Bolt launched in Bangkok in 2022 and is often 10–20% cheaper than Grab for the same journey. Both apps accept cash or in-app payment. Surge pricing applies during rain, rush hour, and major events. Always confirm your driver's plate and name before getting in.
Bangkok Transit: BTS and MRT Apps
The official BTS SkyTrain app allows you to check routes and fares. The MRT (subway) has a separate app. Google Maps integrates both systems and is the most practical navigation tool — search your destination and select 'transit' for step-by-step directions including BTS/MRT legs. The Rabbit LINE Pay app works as a contactless payment card for BTS fares and can be topped up via the app. MRT uses their own Blue Line card. Both cards require a small deposit (50–100 THB) and can be returned for a refund when you leave Thailand.
Motorbike Taxis and Tuk-Tuks
Motorbike taxis (orange vests) are not on any app — they operate from fixed stands at BTS stations and on busy streets, with fares negotiated directly. Typical fare: 20–80 THB for short hops. They are faster than cars in traffic but you must wear the helmet they provide. Tuk-tuks are primarily tourist vehicles in Bangkok and almost always overcharge — use Grab instead for honest pricing. In Chiang Mai, tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared red pickup trucks) are legitimate local transport; songthaews charge 30–40 THB within the city.
Intercity Transport: 12Go and Bookaway
12Go Asia (12go.asia) is the best platform for booking intercity buses, trains, and ferries in Thailand. You can compare all options for a given route (e.g., Bangkok to Chiang Mai: train vs. bus vs. flight), see real departure times, and pay online. Bookaway is a competing platform with similar coverage. For overnight trains, book directly via the State Railway of Thailand website (thairailwayticket.com) or through 12Go. For domestic flights, Google Flights, AirAsia app, and Thai Lion Air's app are all reliable. Book flights 2–6 weeks ahead for best prices.
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Expat Life Editor · Chiang Mai · 10+ years in Thailand
Sarah moved to Chiang Mai in 2016 as a digital nomad and never left. She covers cost of living, expat relocation, healthcare, and the practicalities of building a life in Thailand. She has navigated the visa system personally — from tourist visa extensions to a retirement visa for her parents — and brings hard-won experience to every guide she writes.
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