Getting Around Bangkok on the Bus: My Budget-Friendly Adventure

When I first arrived in Bangkok, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of transportation options. Taxis, tuk-tuks, the Skytrain, and even boats—everything seemed exciting but also a little confusing. But after a few days of exploring, I found that the best way to see the city without spending too much was by bus. And honestly, I’ve come to love it.

Buses in Bangkok are dirt cheap—much cheaper than taxis or even the train if you're just going short distances. I remember my first time hopping on a bus, standing at a busy stop near Khao San Road. I had my phone ready, opened the ViaBus app, and took a deep breath. That’s when I realized how much easier traveling here could be.

The Magic of ViaBus

The app is like having a tiny, very helpful friend guiding you. Once you open it, it shows exactly where you are—your current stop—and helps you plan your trip. You can see all the bus lines that pass through your location, the number of stops to your destination, and even how many stops you’ve already passed. It’s surprisingly accurate, thanks to the GPS systems on the buses themselves.

One afternoon, I wanted to visit Chatuchak Market. I plugged in my location and destination, and the app suggested I take the bus number 26. I waited at the stop, glanced at the app, and saw that the bus was about 5 stops away. I checked the route on the map, and it looked straightforward. When the bus finally arrived, I got on, showed the driver my destination, and sat back.

The Bus Ride Experience

What struck me right away was how diverse the buses are. Some are air-conditioned and comfortable, with cool air swirling around, perfect for those scorching Bangkok days. Others are basic, with open windows and a bit of a breeze. I’ve even been on a bus that was so crowded, I had to stand the entire ride, clutching the handrail, feeling the engine vibrate through my bones.

Most buses have a small digital or manual display showing the stops, but it’s really helpful to have the app open, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. I learned quickly that buses in Bangkok are quite considerate—most drivers will stop if they see someone waiting. But here’s a little trick I picked up: at some stops, the bus won’t stop unless someone is getting off. So, if you’re sitting at a bus stop and want to hop on, you might need to stand up or signal to the driver.

Money Matters and Tips

Paying for the bus is simple once you get the hang of it. I usually carry a few coins—20 or 50 Baht bills—because most buses charge based on the distance traveled. Some buses have a fare box where you drop your coins or bills, and others might have a conductor walking around collecting fares.

A tip I learned the hard way: don’t expect the bus to stop automatically just because you’re waiting. Sometimes, you need to signal the driver, especially if there’s no one getting off at your stop. And, if you’re unsure whether the bus will stop, it’s polite to raise your hand or give a little wave to catch their attention.

The Convenience of Technology

What really makes taking the bus here a breeze is the ViaBus app’s real-time updates. I love checking it just before I arrive at a stop. Sometimes, I’ve been running late, and the app shows the bus arriving in just a minute or two. Other times, I’ve waited a bit longer, but knowing exactly when it’s coming saves me from wasting time standing under the blazing sun.

Once, I was heading home after a long day, exhausted but eager to get back. I checked the app, saw the bus was just a stop away, and rushed to the stop. Sure enough, the bus pulled up just as the app predicted. That’s become my favorite part—being able to plan my trip down to the minute, even in a busy city like Bangkok.

A Little Patience Goes a Long Way

Of course, traffic in Bangkok can turn a simple ride into a long journey. During rush hours, the buses can get stuck in traffic for ages. I’ve been on buses crawling at a snail’s pace, watching the scenery change from bustling markets to quiet side streets. But even then, I found it part of the experience—watching the city go by, seeing everyday life unfold right outside the window.

Sometimes, I’d use those moments to scroll through the app, plan my next destination, or just enjoy the hum of the engine and the chatter of fellow passengers. It’s surprisingly relaxing—if you don’t mind a little traffic.

Final Tips for Bus Travel in Bangkok

• Always have some coins ready; it makes things smoother.
• Use the ViaBus app for real-time updates and route info.
• Signal to the driver if you want to get off at a specific stop.
• Be prepared for traffic delays during peak hours.
• And most importantly, enjoy the ride! Each bus trip is a chance to see a different side of Bangkok.

Taking the bus here has turned into one of my favorite ways to explore. It’s budget-friendly, gives you a peek into local life, and sometimes, it’s just nice to sit back and enjoy the ride. So, next time you’re in Bangkok, don’t hesitate to hop on a bus—you might find it’s your new favorite way to travel.