Songthaew Thailand: Low-Cost Travel Guide and Pro Tips

If you talk about iconic travel that reaches every corner of the country, you must mention Songthaew Thailand. This vehicle has been a part of the Thai way of life for a very long time.

The Ultimate Guide to Songthaew Thailand: Low-Cost Travel and Insider Tips

Whether you are an adventurous traveler or a local looking to save money, this is truly a great choice. It is widely considered the cheapest way to travel in Thailand which you cannot find anywhere else in the world. This article will help you get to know these vehicles better along with some professional service tips.

Types of Songthaew Thailand

There is no single type of vehicle, as they change based on the local terrain and community size:

Pick-up Trucks: These are the most common type with two rows of benches and sometimes a rear step.
Small Six-Wheelers: You will find these on longer routes between districts because they can carry many more people.
Microbuses (Kapoh): These tiny four-wheelers are perfect for narrow alleys in crowded areas like the Thonburi side of Bangkok.

Standard Fares

The biggest highlight of this transport is the price, as the Department of Land Transport regulates most of the fares:

In City Areas: Prices usually start between 8 to 10 Baht for the entire route within the city limits.
Inter-District Routes: The price increases based on distance, typically ranging from 20 to 60 Baht per person.
Night Sessions: After 10:00 PM, some routes might add an extra 2 to 5 Baht as a late-night service fee.

Iconic Provinces for Songthaews

In some cities, these vehicles are not just an option but are actually the main kings of the road:

Chiang Mai: The Red Truck Chiang Mai is the heart of the city, roaming around without a fixed route.
Phuket: Look for the colorful wooden “Po Thong” trucks which represent the beautiful cultural identity of the island.
Chachoengsao: Yellow and white trucks are very common here for connecting the railway station to the famous ancient markets.

Riding the Baht Bus in Pattaya

The term Baht Bus is very famous among tourists, especially when you are visiting the city of Pattaya. These blue trucks run in loops around the beach and Naklua area all day and night for your convenience. If you want to know how to catch a Songthaew, simply wait on the main road and wave one down. It is much easier than finding a taxi and it is definitely more affordable for a quick trip.

How to Hail a Songthaew Thailand

To ride like a local without any mistakes, you should follow these simple but very effective etiquette steps:

Stand in a Safe Spot: Make sure you are in a bright area and wave your hand at waist level.
Check the Signs: The color of the truck usually tells you the destination, such as white for a specific district.
Ask the Driver: Before jumping in, ask the driver a quick question like “Are you going to…?” to avoid mistakes.

Three Ways to Pay

The service is very flexible, and you can choose how to use it based on your specific needs:

Standard Route This is the normal way where you share the ride with others and pay a fixed, very cheap price.
Private Charter If you are traveling in a group, hiring a private Songthaew price can be discussed for a direct trip. This is a great choice because the driver will take you to your destination immediately without stopping for others.
The Hybrid (Semi-Private) Sometimes when there are few passengers, you can offer a bit more money so the driver leaves right away. This “win-win” situation helps the driver cover his fuel costs while you save a lot of waiting time.

Understanding Vehicle Colors in Each Province

Colors are very important because they often act as a map for passengers in different parts of Thailand:

Chiang Mai Colors: The Red Truck Chiang Mai stays in town, while white, blue, or yellow trucks go to districts.
Phuket Blue Trucks: These traditional wooden vehicles connect Phuket Town to famous beaches like Patong or Kata.
Chonburi Colors: Dark blue is common in Pattaya, while orange or red trucks often run in other local areas.
General Tip: In many cities, the color represents a specific route or a private company that owns the line.

Negotiation Tips for Charters

To get a fair price and avoid confusion, you should use these simple negotiation steps before you start:

Agree on a Net Price: Always clarify if the quoted price is for the whole group or per person.
Mention Extra Stops: If you want to stop for photos or at a market, tell the driver beforehand.
Check the Vehicle: If you are going up a mountain, ensure the truck and driver are ready for hills.

In summary, Songthaew Thailand is more than just cheap transport because it reflects the kind spirit of Thai people. If you understand the difference between Tuk Tuk and Songthaew, you will enjoy a much more affordable journey. Traveling by these trucks is a fun and authentic experience that will surely save you a lot of money.

«Photo from the Facebook of สปอร์ตไลท์บางปู | via ThaiImpact Editorial»