Flights
Flying is
the fastest and often the most expensive way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, but with a bit of luck you can score very good deals for as little as
USD 39.77.
Things to remember: Note that some of the airlines may have restrictions on checked luggage weight or require paying extra for check-in, choosing seats or transportation of oversized luggage.
If opting for a flight, calculate the time you will spend getting to and from the airports as well as the waiting time before your flight, getting through immigration in case of an international flight and recovering your checked luggage.
In certain cases all these procedures can add no less than 5 hours to your total travel time.
Airlines flying between Bangkok and Chiang Rai
Hahn Air Systems, Nok Air (นกแอร์), Thai AirAsia (แอร์เอเชีย), Thai AirAsia (แอร์เอเชีย), Thai AirAsia (แอร์เอเชีย), Thai Airways, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air (ไทยไลอ้อนแอร์), Thai Vietjet (ไทยเวียดเจ็ทแอร์)
Bus
Travelling from Bangkok to Chiang Rai overland will inevitably take longer but in many cases it is
the cheapest option if you opt for a bus.
Things to remember: For a more comfortable ride opt for a higher-class bus wherever possible. These buses usually have soft reclining seats and are equipped with air-conditioning and on-board toilets.
They often include water, snacks or a light lunch into your ticket price and make bathroom stops en-route.
Companies operating bus routes between Bangkok and Chiang Rai
Bangkok Busline (บางกอกบัสไลน์), Budsarakham Tour (บุษราคัมทัวร์), Cherdchai Tour, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Kasemthara Tour (เกษมธราทัวร์), Nakhonchai Air (นครชัยแอร์), Sombat Tour (บริษัท เทพสมบัติ จำกัด), Transport Co (บริษัท ขนส่ง จำกัด)
Taxi
Some travellers consider taxi to be
the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.
Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.
Companies offering charters between Bangkok and Chiang Rai
Andaman Taxis, BangkokTaxi24, Firstplan Transport Services (เฟิร์สแพลน ทรานสปอร์ตเซอร์วิส), Glassflower, Kanokwan Travel (บริษัท กนกวรรณ ทราเวล จำกัด)