The Travelling Wee

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Getting around Thailand in 2025 can be stress‑free if you know your transport options. For most travellers, the choice comes down to Grab, Bolt, or a traditional taxi‑metre. Each has its pros and cons, but for families, convenience, comfort, and safety are the top priorities.

🚖 Taxi‑Metre Cars – The Old Standard

Taxi‑metre cars are a familiar sight in Thailand’s cities. You can hail them on the street, at taxi stands, or outside major hotels.

• Starting fare: ฿35 in Bangkok
• Payment: Cash only
• Availability: High in urban areas, limited in rural towns

✅ Pros for families:

• Fits 3–4 passengers plus luggage
• No need for an app or internet connection

⚠️ Cons for families:

• Some drivers refuse to use the meter and quote inflated fares
• Language barriers can cause confusion
• No upfront price – you only know the cost at the end

📱 Grab – The Popular Choice

Grab is Thailand’s most widely used ride‑hailing app, operating in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, and more.

• Booking: Through the Grab app (English interface)
• Payment: Cash or card
• Vehicle types: Standard taxis, private cars, motorbikes

✅ Pros for families:

• Upfront pricing before you confirm
• Cashless payment choice
• Large driver pool = shorter wait times
• Bigger car options for more passengers or luggage

⚠️ Cons for families:

• Fares can be higher than Bolt
• Surge pricing during peak hours

💡 Money‑Saving Tip for 2025: Before you book, check out the Klook Exclusive Grab Bangkok City Ride Voucher Packs. These packs can save you up to ฿1,050 on your Grab rides in Bangkok. New users get discounts like 60% off (max ฿60). Existing users can enjoy 25% off (max ฿100). You get your promo codes instantly after booking, and they’re perfect for airport transfers or longer city trips. I only discovered this later in my trip. It have saved me a lot. Travelling as a family makes ride costs add up quickly.

⚡ Bolt – The Budget‑Friendly Choice

Bolt is newer but expanding quickly in Thailand, known for lower fares and fast pick‑ups.

• Booking: Through the Bolt app (English interface)
• Payment: Cash or card
• Vehicle types: Private cars, motorbikes

✅ Pros for families:

• Often cheaper than Grab for the same route
• Transparent pricing before you ride
• Quick response times in busy areas

⚠️ Cons for families:

• Smaller driver network than Grab in some cities
• Fewer large vehicle options in smaller towns

🎨 A Fun Twist – Ride in a Decorated Thai Taxi

If you want to add a little magic to your journey, keep an eye out for Thailand’s famously decorated taxis. Many drivers personalise their cars with colourful garlands, religious talismans, or even quirky themes like Hello Kitty.

These taxis are more than just transport – they’re a slice of Thai culture. Kids especially love spotting the bright interiors and unique ornaments, making the ride part of the holiday experience. You can’t book these decorated taxis through apps. Yet, you find them at busy taxi stands or outside tourist hotspots.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why Ride‑Hailing Apps Win for Families

Compared to taxi‑metre cars, Grab and Bolt offer:

• Safety: Driver details and car registration shown in the app
• Convenience: No haggling over fares
• Language help: Destination entered in the app avoids miscommunication
• Payment flexibility: Pay by card or cash
• Bigger cars: Easier to fit children, luggage, and prams

🗺️ Finding a Ride When Taxis Are Scarce – My Experience

Sometimes, you won’t find a taxi or app driver right away – especially in quieter areas or during peak demand.

Example 1 – Big C vs centralwOrld At Big C in Bangkok, I was quoted ฿300. This quote was given at the taxi counter. Later, the quote was reduced to ฿250. Instead, I walked to centralwOrld ride‑hailing pick‑up area and booked through an app for just ฿110.

Example 2 – IconSiam Bolt rides were scarce, but Grab worked thanks to the mall’s dedicated pick‑up zone.

Tip: Walk to a major hotel or shopping mall with a known pick‑up point to improve your chances.

🌧️ Weather Warning – Rainy Day Delays

During heavy rain, expect long waits – sometimes 30 minutes or more – and occasional ride refusals. If rain is forecast, book early or travel before the downpour.

🏆 Which Should You Choose?

• Lowest fare: Try Bolt first
• Widest coverage & more car options: Use Grab. Don’t forget to check the Klook Grab voucher packs before booking. This will help you save extra.
• Taxi‑metre nearby: Hail it, but insist on the meter

Pro tip: Install both Grab and Bolt before your trip. Compare prices and wait times each time you travel.

💡 Family Travel Tip

If you’re travelling with young children, bring a portable car seat — none of these services supply them by default. Booking a larger car through the apps gives you more space and comfort. And if you’re lucky, you spot or ride one of Thailand’s decorated taxis for a truly memorable ride.