Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Chang does not have to mean leaving before dawn. An overnight journey allows you to break up the trip, arrive refreshed, and catch one of the first ferries to the island the following morning. This approach is especially convenient for families, travelers with plenty of luggage, or anyone who prefers a more relaxed travel schedule.
This guide explains the best overnight travel options, where to stay before the ferry, and what to expect on the journey to Koh Chang.
Why Choose an Overnight Trip?
Instead of trying to complete the entire journey in one day, you can travel from Bangkok to Trat Province in the evening, spend the night near the ferry terminals or in Trat Town, and continue to Koh Chang early the next morning.
Benefits include:
- Avoiding an early morning departure from Bangkok
- A more comfortable journey for families with children
- Less rushing between buses, ferries, and transfers
- Earlier arrival at your Koh Chang resort, allowing you to enjoy most of the first day
Overnight Travel Options
There are two practical ways to travel overnight from Bangkok to Koh Chang.
| Option | Best For | Travel Time | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evening road journey + overnight stay | Families, budget travelers, relaxed itinerary | 4.5–6 hours to Trat | Bus: approximately THB 300–600, Private car: approximately THB 3,800–6,000 per vehicle |
| Evening flight to Trat | Travelers prioritizing speed | Around 1 hour flight plus airport transfer | Airfare varies by season |
Although flying significantly reduces travel time, an overland journey is generally more economical and offers greater flexibility, particularly for groups and families.
Option 1: Evening Road Journey (Recommended)
Step 1: Travel from Bangkok to Trat or Laem Ngop
Leave Bangkok during the late afternoon or early evening and travel toward Trat Province.
Available transportation includes:
Public Bus
Direct buses depart from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) for Trat throughout the day. Journey time is typically between 5 and 6 hours depending on traffic.
Typical fare:
- THB 300–600 per person
If your bus terminates in Trat Town, local transportation is available to the ferry terminals the following morning.
VIP Minibus Services
Some operators provide direct services between Bangkok and Koh Chang or Trat.
These services generally:
- Require less transferring
- Offer hotel pickup on selected routes
- Have limited luggage space compared with coaches
Typical fares:
- THB 600–900 per person
Private Car
A private transfer provides the greatest flexibility.
Advantages include:
- Door-to-door service
- Flexible departure times
- Comfortable seating
- Ample luggage capacity
- Convenient rest stops
Driving time is usually:
5–6 hours
Typical cost:
- THB 3,800–6,000 per vehicle
For groups of three or more travelers, the cost difference compared with public transport is often relatively small.
Step 2: Spend the Night Near the Ferry
Instead of arriving at the ferry terminal before sunrise, spend the night nearby.
You have two practical choices.
Stay Near the Ferry Piers
Accommodation is available close to both:
- Ao Thammachat Pier
- Centre Point Pier
Advantages include:
- Easy access to the first ferry
- Minimal morning travel
- Convenient for travelers with heavy luggage
Stay in Trat Town
Trat Town offers:
- More accommodation options
- Restaurants and cafés
- Convenience stores
- Banks and ATMs
The ferry terminals are approximately 30–45 minutes away by local taxi or songthaew.
Evening Preparation Tips
Before turning in for the night:
- Confirm the following morning’s ferry schedule.
- Purchase breakfast, drinking water, and snacks.
- Prepare a separate day bag containing:
- Ferry tickets
- Passports
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Swimsuits
- Essential medications
Keeping these items separate from larger luggage makes the following morning much easier.
Step 3: Morning Ferry to Koh Chang
Koh Chang is served by two main ferry terminals.
| Departure Pier | Crossing Time |
|---|---|
| Ao Thammachat Pier | 30–40 minutes |
| Centre Point Pier | 30–40 minutes |
Ferries generally begin operating around 6:30–7:00 AM, depending on the season, and continue throughout the day.
During busy periods, departures are typically every 30–60 minutes.
Vehicle ferries carry:
- Cars
- Motorcycles
- Passengers
Purchasing tickets at the terminal is normally straightforward outside major holiday periods.
Typical passenger fare:
- Approximately THB 80–120 per adult
Vehicle charges vary according to vehicle type.
Step 4: Getting to Your Resort
After arriving on Koh Chang, transportation is readily available.
Options include:
Songthaews
Shared pickup trucks operate between the ferry terminals and the island’s west coast beaches, including:
- White Sand Beach
- Klong Prao Beach
- Kai Bae Beach
- Lonely Beach
Always confirm the fare before boarding.
Typical fares:
- Approximately THB 50–200 per person, depending on destination.
Resort Transfers
Many resorts arrange:
- Private pickups
- Shared shuttle services
These services are particularly useful if:
- You have young children.
- You are carrying large suitcases.
- You are staying at more remote resorts.
It is advisable to arrange transfers before arrival whenever possible.
Family Travel Tips
An overnight itinerary works particularly well for families.
Helpful suggestions include:
- Choose accommodations near the ferry if traveling with young children.
- Pack children’s essentials separately for the morning crossing.
- Bring motion sickness medication if anyone is sensitive to boat travel.
- Avoid arriving at the ferry terminal very late at night.
- Reserve accommodations with flexible late check-in if arriving after normal reception hours.
Safety Tips
Although the Bangkok–Trat highway is generally straightforward, travelers should keep several points in mind.
- Use licensed bus operators or reputable private drivers.
- Wear seat belts whenever available.
- Keep valuables with you rather than in checked luggage.
- During Thailand’s major holidays, allow additional travel time due to increased traffic and ferry demand.
- During the rainy season (approximately May to October), occasional delays may occur because of weather conditions.
Suggested Overnight Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 4:00–6:00 PM | Depart Bangkok |
| 9:30–11:00 PM | Arrive in Trat or near Laem Ngop |
| Overnight | Stay near the ferry or in Trat Town |
| 6:30–8:00 AM | Board morning ferry |
| 7:00–9:00 AM | Arrive on Koh Chang |
| Morning | Transfer to your resort |
| Before Noon | Begin exploring the island |
Is an Overnight Trip Worth It?
For many travelers, the answer is yes.
Rather than starting the day before sunrise in Bangkok, an overnight stop near the ferry creates a more relaxed itinerary. Families, couples, and travelers carrying luggage often find this approach less stressful, while still reaching Koh Chang early enough to enjoy almost a full day on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang overnight?
Yes. The most practical option is to travel to Trat or Laem Ngop in the evening, stay overnight, and take the first ferry to Koh Chang the following morning.
2. How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
The complete journey usually takes 6–8 hours, including the ferry crossing. Breaking the trip into two days makes the journey much more comfortable.
3. What is the cheapest way to reach Koh Chang?
A public bus from Bangkok to Trat followed by a ferry is generally the most economical option.
4. How much does the ferry cost?
Passenger tickets typically cost THB 80–120. Additional charges apply for cars and motorcycles.
5. Which ferry terminal should I use?
Both Ao Thammachat Pier and Centre Point Pier provide regular vehicle ferry services to Koh Chang with similar crossing times.
6. Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?
Outside public holidays and long weekends, advance booking is usually unnecessary. During peak travel periods, arriving early is recommended.
7. Is staying in Trat Town a good idea?
Yes. Trat Town offers a wider selection of hotels, restaurants, and services. It is approximately 30–45 minutes from the ferry terminals.
8. Are there taxis on Koh Chang?
Shared songthaews are the primary form of public transportation. Private taxis and resort transfers are also available.
9. Is the overnight trip suitable for children?
Yes. Many families prefer this itinerary because it reduces travel fatigue and allows for a more relaxed morning.
10. When is the best time to visit Koh Chang?
The dry season, from November to February, generally offers the most pleasant weather and calmer sea conditions. The rainy season runs roughly from May to October, when occasional ferry delays are possible.
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