Your Shortcut to Better Travel
Bangkok,Thailand
🛬 Step 1 Landing in Bangkok – What to Expect at the Airport
When you arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), expect immigration lines and a slightly overwhelming crowd.
Tip: Fill out your arrival card before landing (often handed out on the plane)
Skip long immigration queues with this Fast-Track VIP Service (aff link) — ideal if you’re tired from a long flight.
💵 Step 2: Exchange Money or Withdraw from ATM
You’ll find currency exchange booths and ATMs before exiting the airport.
Exchange booths offer decent rates, but ATM withdrawal is usually better for large amounts.
- I recommend getting a Wise Card (aff link) — you can withdraw THB at the best rates and avoid crazy exchange fees.
📱 Step 3: Get a Local SIM Card
Grab a SIM card at the airport, or order one in advance to avoid hassle.
Most tourists get AIS, DTAC, or TrueMove.
Buy an eSIM before you go — I use DrimSim (aff link) for fast data on arrival. No more searching booths!
Prefer physical SIMs? Get a Thailand Tourist SIM on Amazon (aff link) delivered to your home.
🚖 Step 4: Get to Your Hotel – Don’t Overpay
Avoid shady taxis. Instead:
Use Grab App (like Uber)
Pre-book a private airport transfer
Book your airport pickup here (aff link) — it’s reliable, safe, and cheaper than taxis.
🏨 Step 5: Where to Stay – First Night in Bangkok
I recommend staying near Sukhumvit or Khao San Road for easy access to food, nightlife, and BTS trains.
Popular Hotel destinations
🍜 Step 6: First Thai Meal – What to Try
Look for these must-try dishes:
Pad Kra Pao (spicy basil chicken)
Tom Yum Goong (hot & sour soup)
Mango Sticky Rice for dessert 🍚🥭
Book a local street food tour here (aff link) — it’s an incredible way to try safe, authentic food with a local guide.
🚶 Step 7: Get Oriented – Day 1 in Bangkok
Grab a tourist map or use Google Maps.
Walk along Sukhumvit, explore nearby temples, or hop on a canal boat.
- Discover Bangkok’s hidden temples with this half-day guided tour (aff link).
- Get my custom itineraries to maximize your stay and take the guess work out of it.
Latest Guides
Featured
Travel Beyond Bangkok
Book Based On Travel Style
🧳 Choose Your Travel Style: Luxury, Mid-Range, or Backpacker?
Everyone travels differently — whether you’re living it up in 5-star sky bars or squeezing every baht out of your backpack budget. Here’s what you need to know for each style of travel in Thailand:
💎 Luxury Traveler
If you’re here for spa days, rooftop cocktails, and seamless service:
🏨 Hotel:
Banyan Tree Bangkok – Don’t miss the rooftop bar!
🚗 Transport:
🍽️ Dining:
Michelin-starred street food? Yes. Try Jay Fai’s Restaurant Tour.
Or book a Rooftop Dinner Cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
🛍️ Extras:
🧳 Mid-Range / Comfort Traveler
Looking for a balance of comfort and value? This is for you.
🏨 Hotel:
Amara Bangkok – Rooftop pool without the luxury price.
🚕 Transport:
Use Grab App or book a shared Airport Shuttle
BTS Skytrain Pass: Click here (aff link)
🍽️ Dining:
Food courts at malls like Terminal 21 (clean, affordable, tasty).
🧩 Experiences:
🎒 Backpacker / Budget Traveler
On a budget but still want to see it all? Thailand’s got your back.
🛌 Hostel:
💵 Budget Hacks:
Eat street food (under $2 a meal).
Ride canal boats instead of taxis.
Buy a SIM card at 7-Eleven, not the airport.
🚶 Experiences:
Free temple walking tours
Tools:
Wise Travel Card (aff link) to avoid ATM fees
✈️ Whichever Type You Are…
Here’s what every traveler needs:
| Must-Have | Link |
|---|---|
| eSIM/Data | DrimSim |
| Travel Insurance | SafetyWing Nomad Plan |
| Power Adapter | Universal Adapter on Amazon |
| Bangkok Travel Card | Rabbit Card or BTS Pass |