Thinking about travelling from Bangkok to Phuket but don’t want to break the bank?
We all get it—budget travel is a real struggle, especially when flights can eat into your savings.
Don’t worry—We’ve got your back.
Here’s a no-fluff guide to finding the cheapest ways to travel from Bangkok to Phuket while still keeping it practical and comfortable.
1. Low-Cost Airlines: Fly Without Breaking the Bank
Flying is the fastest way to get from Bangkok to Phuket.
Look out for these budget airlines:
Here’s how to snag cheap flights:
- Book early: Prices spike closer to the travel date.
- Fly mid-week: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically cheaper.
- Travel light: Budget airlines charge for extra luggage. Stick to carry-ons.
Ticket prices?
They can go as low as $20 if you book smart.
Pro tip: Use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track fares.
2. Train + Bus Combo: Affordable and Scenic
If you’re not in a rush, the train + bus combo is a fantastic option.
Here’s the plan:
- Take a sleeper train from Bangkok to Surat Thani.
- Switch to a bus for the final leg to Phuket.
Costs:
- Train tickets: Around $10–$15 depending on the class.
- Bus tickets: Roughly $6–$8.
Yes, it’s slower—it’ll take about 12–15 hours in total.
But here’s the trade-off: It’s cheaper, and you can stretch out in a sleeper car.
Want an insider tip?
Book 2nd-class sleeper tickets—they’re comfy and budget-friendly.
3. Long-Distance Buses: The Straightforward Option
Prefer simplicity?
Hop on a direct bus from Bangkok to Phuket.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Government buses: Reliable and cheaper.
- Private operators: More luxurious but slightly pricier.
Tickets cost $15–$25, and the journey takes around 12–13 hours.
You’ll find buses departing from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) in Bangkok.
Quick tip: Pack snacks and a travel pillow. You’ll thank yourself later.
4. Train + Ferry: For Island Hoppers
Love a good sea breeze?
Consider the train + ferry combo.
How it works:
- Take a train to Surat Thani.
- From there, catch a ferry to Phuket via nearby islands.
While it’s not the most direct route, it’s great if you want to explore places like Koh Samui or Koh Phangan along the way.
Costs:
- Train: Same as the train + bus option.
- Ferry: Around $8–$12, depending on the operator.
It’s an adventure and budget-friendly at the same time.
5. Road Trip: Car or Motorbike Rental
Feeling adventurous?
Renting a car or motorbike gives you ultimate freedom.
Plus, the drive from Bangkok to Phuket is stunning.
What to expect:
- Car rental: Around $20–$30 per day.
- Fuel costs: Approximately $40–$50 for the journey.
Things to keep in mind:
- Tolls: Budget around $10 for highway tolls.
- Safety: The roads can get tricky, so drive cautiously.
This option is ideal for travellers who value flexibility over saving every penny.
6. Tips to Save Even More Money
- Book early: Whether it’s flights, buses, or trains, the earlier you book, the cheaper it’ll be.
- Travel off-peak: Avoid public holidays and weekends.
- Use travel apps: Apps like 12Go Asia help you compare prices and book everything in one place.
7. When is the Best Time to Travel from Bangkok to Phuket?
Ever noticed how flight prices spike during certain times?
It’s not just a coincidence.
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Phuket, timing is everything.
Here’s when to travel:
- Avoid peak seasons: Christmas, New Year, and Thai holidays are when prices go sky-high.
- Best months: Late April, May, and September are the sweet spots.
- Mid-week flights: Tuesday and Wednesday are typically the cheapest days to fly.
- Book 3-6 weeks ahead: This is the magic window to find discounted tickets.
Quick example:
I’ve found flights for as low as £20 when booking ahead, but they shot up to £50+ just a few days before departure.
8. Finding Deals on Flights, Trains, and Buses
You know when to travel, and you know what’s cheapest, now let’s talk about how to score deals on flights, buses, and trains.
- For flights:
- Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Momondo to compare fares.
- Set up price alerts—this way, you’ll never miss a discount.
- Check for promo codes or special deals on airlines’ websites like AirAsia and Nok Air.
- For trains and buses:
- Always book tickets in advance to lock in lower rates.
- For buses, sites like 12Go Asia allow you to book online, which sometimes comes with a small discount.
9. How to Maximise Comfort While Saving Money
No one wants to sacrifice comfort, but let’s face it—the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Phuket doesn’t always scream luxury.
Here’s how to make your budget journey a bit more comfortable without blowing your budget:
- For trains:
- Choose 2nd-class sleeper if you’re not in a rush. It’s a nice balance between comfort and cost.
- You can book an overnight train so you sleep through a big chunk of the journey.
- Bring a neck pillow and snacks to make the trip more comfortable.
- For buses:
- Look for VIP buses for added comfort, but they’re still fairly affordable.
- They’ll have better legroom, reclining seats, and a smoother ride.
- Remember to pack your own food and water to avoid paying high prices onboard.
Pro tip:
A comfortable journey might not always be the cheapest, but adding in small comforts can make the longer trips more enjoyable.
10. Choosing the Right Travel App to Save Even More
Ever been confused by all the travel apps out there?
Don’t stress—it’s easier than you think to make the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Phuket even cheaper.
These apps will change your game:
- 12Go Asia: The go-to app for booking all kinds of transport—trains, buses, ferries, even flights.
- Skyscanner: For finding cheap flights. It also has a great “whole month” search feature that shows you the cheapest days to fly.
- Google Flights: A handy tool to monitor airfares and compare them across different platforms.
11. How to Save on Food and Extras While Traveling
Saving on transport is one thing, but how about food and other travel expenses?
Here’s how to stretch your budget even further.
- Eat local: Ditch the tourist traps.
Try street food or eat at local spots.
You can get a hearty meal for as little as £1–£3. - Pack your own snacks:
It’s a no-brainer when you’re travelling by bus or train. Pack nuts, fruit, or sandwiches to avoid overpriced snacks onboard.
So, what’s the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Phuket?
It all depends on your priorities—speed, comfort, or cost.
Choose what works best for you and enjoy the journey!
