If you are planning a move to Thailand, transport varies enormously by base, so factor it into your city choice. Start with the wider Thailand expat guide for the fuller picture.
At a glance
- Best for: expats in central Bangkok who can use the Skytrain and metro
- Hardest part: patchy transit outside Bangkok, where scooters or ride-hailing take over
- Good fit for: people who match their base to how they actually want to travel
Daily transport in the main cities
Bangkok has the BTS Skytrain and MRT metro, plus buses, canal and river boats, and countless motorbike taxis for short hops. Living near a BTS/MRT line transforms daily life in the capital. Outside Bangkok, formal transit is limited: Chiang Mai relies on songthaews (shared pickups), ride-hailing, and personal scooters, and the islands run on scooters and ferries.
Do you need a car or scooter?
In central Bangkok, many expats skip both and rely on trains and ride-hailing. Elsewhere, a scooter is the default local mode — cheap and convenient but genuinely risky, with high accident rates, so proper gear, care, and insurance matter. Cars suit families and those in areas with poor transit.
Intercity and regional travel
Long-distance buses are extensive and cheap, trains are scenic but slow, and budget domestic flights (such as AirAsia) make crossing the country fast and affordable. Ferries connect the mainland to the islands. This mix makes it easy to explore before choosing a base.
Driving, licences, and setup
You need a valid licence — an International Driving Permit initially, then a Thai licence for residents. Traffic can be chaotic and driving norms differ from Western expectations, so ease in carefully. Helmet use on scooters is both a legal and a safety essential.
Costs, passes, and apps
Grab is the dominant ride-hailing app (covering cars and motorbike taxis), with Bolt also present. Rechargeable cards exist for the BTS/MRT. Ride-hailing is affordable enough that many Bangkok expats use it as their main mode alongside the trains.
Practical tips for expats
- In Bangkok, prioritise living within walking distance of a BTS or MRT station.
- Treat scooter riding seriously: helmet, insurance, and caution are non-negotiable.
- Use Grab to avoid fare disputes common with some street taxis and tuk-tuks.
Final thoughts
Thailand is easy in central Bangkok and more scooter-dependent elsewhere. Choosing a base that matches your comfort with riding (or not) is the key transport decision.
FAQ
Can I live in Bangkok without a car?
Yes. Living near the BTS or MRT, combined with Grab, makes car-free life very workable.
Are scooters safe?
They are convenient but high-risk. Always wear a helmet, get insurance, and ride cautiously.
What is the main ride-hailing app?
Grab dominates, covering both cars and motorbike taxis, with Bolt also available in places.