Tuk Tuks In Thailand – Tips and Advice

You’re likely to experience the opportunity to ride in a tuk tuk in Thailand. Primarily in the bigger cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and a few other places.

Some years ago tuk tuks were one of the main modes of transportation used, especially in Bangkok, before metered taxis. The Thai name for tuk tuk is ‘Sam Lor’, meaning three wheeled. Now, they’re are a kind of tourist attraction in some areas, although still suitable in various places in Bangkok and Chiang Mai for getting about easier.

While a tuk tuk is fun and a cool new experience if you’ve never took a ride in one, you may need to consider negotiating with the driver, avoid getting taken to a gem shop and consider whether you’re better off taking a ride with another mode of transport.

People Say Don’t Take a Tuk Tuk Because….

• They can over charge customers and don’t use a meter.
• Some try to take passengers to gem shops or one of girly fish bowl venues where you pay for a ladies drinks and possibly some romantic time with her. They offer to take them for a small amount of money then get commission from the gem shop or establishment.
• Usually more expensive than taxis.
• You’re breathing in a hell of a lot of fumes.

I am one of those that avoids taking a tuk tuk in Thailand when possible. This is because of the over charging, breathing in fumes etc. And, I’ve experienced that here and in India many times.

When I first visited Bangkok it was a must do kind of thing and it was great, driver spoke English quite good and it was a laugh.

When out with friends in Bangkok for a night out, we will also use a tuk tuk for convenience, and we’re out for fun so it makes sense if one is available.

In Bangkok if we head to a club we can get a taxi or tuk tuk free. This is because many of the clubs pay the driver commission. It’s up to you if you want to negotiate this, or see the driver has an extra boost in pay that night (I prefer they get the extra as they are not earning a lot of money). You will have to speak and negotiate before getting to the club to prevent having a problem with you’re driver.

The Pros for Using a Tuk Tuk

It’s not all bad news taking a tuk tuk. There can be benefits and if it’s you’re first time in Thailand, why not try it out.

• It is fun..if you don’t get stuck in a traffic jam.
• May get you to your destination quicker.
• Free trip if negotiated to a club.

Taking a Tuk Tuk Tips

• Best to negotiate and agree on a price before getting inside or if you’re not happy with the price say thank you, but no thanks, and keep it polite then move on.
• If anyone offers you a cheap tuk tuk to anywhere, politely decline and walk on. They’re looking to take you to somewhere to make commission. Especially if they speak good English.
• Make sure you’re driver knows the destination. Show them a map on your phone or something written. Some drivers will take you even if they’re unsure of the destination and this can be annoying because you end up at the wrong place. If they are unsure (the same with taxis) just say no problem, thank you, and go and flag down another.
• If you want cheaper it’s best to take a taxi, they’re cheaper most of the time.
• I would avoid taking a tuk tuk early in the morning and night time rush hours. Too much traffic and fumes.

Final Thoughts

There are obvious reasons to avoid riding in a tuk tuk as mentioned, but if it’s your first time – why not experience it, even if you will be paying a little more. If you’re mindful of whats mentioned above you’ll have no problems.

Last, but not least, try and remain cool minded in regards to dealing with drivers. Avoid aggression even if you’ve been overcharged 50 baht (lesson learned type of thing).

Related Articles

• Transport In Thailand – Transportation Guide
• Thailand Taxi Advice and Tips
• Bolt Taxi Thailand App Review
• Train Travel in Thailand – Guides for Tourists
• Bangkok Transport Guide – Getting Around Easily & Conveniently
• Tuk Tuks In Thailand – Tips and Advice
• Foreigners Driving in Thailand
• Bangkok Travel Guides
• Where to Stay in Bangkok?