First Time in Bangkok? 10 Things to Know Before You Arrive

A first trip to Bangkok can feel like a lot: two airports, a huge city, heat, traffic and a language you may not read. The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way. Here are ten practical things worth knowing before you land.

1. Bangkok has two airports

Flights arrive at either Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK). They are separate airports in different parts of the city. Check the three-letter code on your ticket before you arrange any transport. We cover each in detail: Suvarnabhumi to Bangkok and Don Mueang to Bangkok.

2. Thailand is on UTC+7, all year

Thailand does not use daylight saving time. If you are coming from Europe or North America, the time difference shifts during your own country's clock changes, so double-check meeting and pickup times around those dates. Your phone will update automatically once it connects to a local network.

3. Getting around: mix and match

Bangkok has several ways to move around, and most visitors use a combination:

• BTS Skytrain and MRT subway — quick and air-conditioned, ideal for central areas along their lines.
• Taxis and ride-hailing apps — convenient for door-to-door trips, though traffic affects journey time.
• River boats — a pleasant way to reach riverside sights in the old city.
• Private car — useful for airport runs, families, luggage and fixed appointments.

No single option is perfect everywhere; choose by area and time of day.

4. It is warm — and sometimes very wet

Bangkok is hot for most of the year. Broadly, there is a hotter period, a rainy season with heavy afternoon or evening downpours, and a slightly cooler, drier period. Exact timing varies from year to year, so check a reliable weather forecast close to your trip. Light breathable clothing, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle and a compact umbrella are useful in any season.

5. Cash and payments

Cards are accepted in hotels, malls and many restaurants, and QR payments are very common locally. Still, street food, markets and small shops often prefer cash. Withdraw some Thai baht from an ATM or exchange a modest amount, and let your bank know you are travelling so your card is not blocked. Check your bank's foreign transaction and ATM fees before you go.

6. Dress respectfully at temples

Temples are active religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes where signs ask you to, and speak quietly. Some major sites, such as the Grand Palace, enforce dress codes strictly at the entrance. A light scarf or long trousers saves you from being turned away. It is also polite never to touch someone's head or point your feet at people or Buddha images.

7. Traffic is part of the plan

Bangkok traffic is famous for a reason. Journey times can vary a lot depending on the hour, the day, rain and events. A trip that takes 30 minutes in the morning may take much longer at rush hour. When something is time-sensitive — a flight, a hospital appointment, a show — leave early and check live traffic before setting off. Trains are often the fastest choice for short central trips at peak times.

8. Phone and internet

Having data makes everything easier: maps, translation, messaging your driver or hotel. You can buy a local SIM card at the airport or in the city, use an eSIM, or rely on roaming. Bring your passport — SIM registration in Thailand requires it. Make sure you can receive calls or messages on arrival if someone is meeting you.

9. Addresses and maps

Thai addresses can be confusing: long road names, soi (side streets) numbered off main roads, and different English spellings of the same place. A few habits help:

• Save your hotel's address in Thai and English.
• Pin the location in a map app rather than relying on the name alone.
• Note a nearby landmark or BTS/MRT station.
• When booking a car, give the exact building or entrance if possible.

10. Keep a simple backup plan

Flights are delayed, phones die and plans change. Before you fly:

• Screenshot your booking confirmations and hotel address.
• Keep a power bank charged.
• Know one alternative way to reach your hotel from the airport.
• Save important contact numbers offline.

Nothing here needs to be complicated — just a little thought before departure.

Ready for your arrival?

The first hour after landing sets the tone for your trip. If you would like a car waiting when you arrive, our step-by-step airport booking guide explains exactly what information to have ready. Then enter your trip on the booking page to see the price and availability.